ROCHDALE HORNETS halfback Jordan Paga says he’s ready to reach his full potential with the club after an injury-affected first season.
Like centre or second rower Matt Unsworth, another who spent time in the treatment room, the 25-year-old has signed a one-year contract extension.
And with halfback Jack Hansen a confirmed departure (along with winger Dan Nixon, he is joining Widnes), the stage is set for Paga to form a pivotal partnership with Jamie Dallimore.
The one-time Huddersfield Academy, Coventry, Hunslet and Oldham player was recruited from Swinton twelve months ago.
However, a broken leg sustained in pre-season restricted him to twelve appearances this year, when Hornets finished 15th.
“The coaches and the lads have been brilliant, and that was a big reason behind my decision to stay,” he said.
“I also feel like I’ve got a lot more to give after last season, especially with the broken leg and not being able to reach my full potential.
“I’m looking forward to getting back to full fitness, playing some good rugby and hopefully having a really successful year with the team.”
Unsworth, 30, was also signed ahead of this season after two at North Wales, before which he played for the old Salford’s second team.
He sustained a broken ankle on debut in the 12-8 Championship round-one win at Swinton, returning in August to play five further times.
“The injury set me back around six months, but I managed to get the back end of the year in and felt good,” he said.
“I feel I can be a real asset to the team.”
Chairman Andy Mazey added: “This is probably the most pleasing re-signing, as when Matty suffered such a horrendous injury at Swinton, we feared the worst.”