ROCHDALE HORNETS skipper Ross Whitmore is ready to help his side mount a stronger Championship challenge after penning a contract extension to 2028.
Gary Thornton’s men have been getting to grips with the merged second tier after finishing sixth in League One last year.
Huddersfield Academy product and former Doncaster utility forward Whitmore has been with the club since signing from Hunslet during the 2025 campaign.
The 26-year-old, who replaced the retiring Duane Straugheir as captain for this season, said: “I’ve loved being a part of this club, and I’ve especially enjoyed being skipper.
“I’ve always wanted to spend a good period of time here, and I’m so grateful to Gary Thornton and (chairman) Andy Mazey for putting their faith in me and giving me the opportunity to do that.
“We’re still building, and as I’m still a young player myself, I know there’s plenty more I can do to improve my game. And as a team, we’ll keep working hard to help the club keep moving forward.
“Everyone shares the same vision, and I’m excited to continue being a part of it.”
Meanwhile Hornets will be without Ben Metcalfe for a “prolonged period” due to a serious accident at work.
The 21-year-old forward, who is a cladding installer by trade, was left hospitalised in Coventry with what the club describe as a “serious arm injury” which means he will miss the remainder of the season and potentially beyond.
A product of amateur neighbours Rochdale Mayfield, Metcalfe featured twice for Hornets in 2022, and returned ahead of this season, in which he has made 14 appearances.
Metcalfe scored his sole try in the 60-6 win over community side Waterhead Warriors in the second round of the Challenge Cup in January.
Rochdale will support Metcalfe through his recovery, and says they look forward to welcoming him back onto the pitch when he is fit again.