Tom Ashton agrees new 12-month deal

Rochdale Hornets centre Tom Ashton has signed a new one-year deal, keeping him at the club until at least the end of the 2026 season.

Ashton returned to the Hornets for a second spell ahead of the 2025 season. 

The 33-year-old scored an impressive 13 tries in 15 games, including eight in his final nine appearances of the campaign. 

We are delighted to retain a player with proven on-field quality, and someone who is also a positive influence in the dressing room. 

"After nearly drawing a line on my career last year, I just couldn’t help but go round again," he said.

"I loved the rugby we played at points last year and felt like my game was going from strength to strength, so when Andy Mazey and GT [Gary Thornton] asked me about next season, I couldn’t turn down the offer.

"This season will present different challenges and tougher competition, and I feel like I still have something to offer.

"The challenge of playing some of the bigger teams from the Championship was too hard to turn down, and I'm confident that we can continue on an upward trajectory.”

Rochdale Hornets head coach Gary Thornton said: “Tom had a great 2025 season, and I’m delighted that he’s going again for another year.

“I know he’s a fan favourite with his strong running and try-scoring ability. He’s a powerhouse of a centre and a threat to any defence.

“Tom is a great lad and a family man, and I know he and his family take great pride in him wearing the Hornets shirt.”