Harriet Wells signs for Hornets Women for 2026

Rochdale Hornets Women have completed the signing of outside back Harriet Wells for the 2026 season.

The 17-year-old outside back joins the club from Rochdale Mayfield's esteemed junior setup.

"Having playing rugby league from the age of six and coming through the Rochdale Mayfield youth teams, last season playing for the U16 Girls team, it was clear that joining the Hornets was the next step in my progression of rugby league," she said. 

"It was a massive change going into open age at first. However, once settling in and making my debut, I feel like I’m in a great place. Now I’m really looking forward to the season ahead, and being alongside a great network of supportive team-mates and coaches.

Women's head coach Ben Bird said: “Harriet comes from playing under age girls rugby within the thriving girls setup at Rochdale Mayfield. 

"Harriet has a well rounded skill set, she's good at the simple things, and that comes straight from that time in girls RL. 

"She's a quiet character but has a fantastic attitude. I don't think she's missed a single session in pre-season. Initially my expectations were tempered by how quiet she is, but within a couple of weeks it became apparent that Harriet is far from a shrinking violet. 

"She's extremely strong and aggressive in both defence and attack. I think she said she'd played prop at unders, but I see her on the edge in the centre/second row, and everyone at Mayfield saw exactly what she's capable off there at the weekend. 

"For such a young girl, the potential is incredible. I can't help but see a huge future for Harriet in the game. The fact she's chosen the Hornets to play and develop at as a rugby league player is a credit to what we're doing."