ROCHDALE HORNETS have recruited versatile back Oliver Whitford from Keighley and second-rower Sam Littler from neighbours Oldham.
Ireland international and former Huddersfield Academy player Whitford, 22, has caught the eye over two campaigns with the Cougars.
He built on two tries in seven appearances in 2025 by chalking up 13 in 20 this year, and has featured at fullback, winger and centre.
Whitford played at fullback for Ireland in the 30-28 win over Netherlands in Amsterdam in September 2024, having previously represented the Under 19s.
Rochdale chairman Andy Mazey said: “We are delighted to have secured Oli Whitford, a player (coach) Gary Thornton and our staff have admired for a while.
“Gary was keen to add him to our group, having been impressed by his performances at Keighley and also for Ireland.
“He had an option to remain at Keighley, and we also faced competition for his signature from rival Championship clubs, so it’s another coup for us to get this deal over the line and to bring in yet another exciting young talent.”
Whitford said: “Rochdale are a great club and I’m very thankful for the opportunity to be here and ready to put my best foot forward.”
Littler, 19, spent time in the Salford youth ranks before his first professional season with Oldham, making one appearance there plus three on loan at Keighley and ten for North Wales.
Mazey said: “Sam is a talented, athletic and hard-working young forward.
“His performances this year at Championship level, operating as both a middle and back-row forward, have caught Gary Thornton’s eye.
“Sam has an excellent attitude and is a model professional, and we are looking forward to seeing him develop further as a player here at Rochdale Hornets in 2027 and hopefully beyond.”
