ROCHDALE HORNETS recruit Ryan Millar, who combines his rugby with a full-time career as an architect, is ready to help build something good at the Crown Oil Arena after being tempted into carrying on playing.
Chairman Andy Mazey and seasoned coach Gary Thornton are charting a climb up the table after a 15th-place finish.
And proven try-scorer Millar, 32, is seen as a key arrival after ending a second spell at Sheffield.
He has crossed the line 69 times in 155 outings for the Eagles, where he came through the club’s old development system.
Over a career which has also taken in Bradford and Widnes, he has topped 185 appearances and 85 tries – experience which Mazey sees as a valuable asset in a squad which will also include former Batley halfback Ben White and ex-Keighley pair, back Oliver Whitford and forward Lachlan Lanskey.
“Ryan is a proven top-end Championship performer whose power, pace and athleticism will provide Gary with even more competition and threat out wide,” explained the club supremo.
“He’s a brilliant try-scorer and comes highly recommended to us by people we respect, and with a reputation as a fantastic professional.
“In addition to knowing where the try-line is, he does little which often go under the radar. They can make a huge difference, hence why Gary was very keen to add him to the group.”
Millar said: “Towards the back end of the season, I thought about it being my last unless the right opportunity came up, so I was happy to hear about the interest from Rochdale.
“It seems like a really honest, hardworking group. There are a few lads I’ve played with over the years as well, which is good. I think we can have a successful season.”
Rochdale have retained former Leigh forward Dan Hackney.
