An ex-Wigan Warriors player has made his rugby league return after over two years out of the game, and has signed with one of the Championship’s newest clubs.
Rochdale Hornets will form part of the second division next year, as the Championship and League One clubs merge together to form one combined competition below Super League.
After already making a number of signings for next year, including Warriors’ academy talent Dylan Kelly-Duffy and former Salford Red Devils man Junior Sa’u, the Hornets have now announced another player that will link up with their squad for 2026.
Making his return to professional rugby league for the first time since 2023, former Wigan hooker Luke Waterworth re-joins the sport for the first time in almost three years.
A product of the Warriors’ youth system, Waterworth made his senior debut in 2016 – a 30-16 victory over Hull KR. He later moved to Swinton Lions, and became a mainstay there, before calling it quits in April 2023 and retiring from the game,
Now, he has decided to come back to the 13-man game, and has signed a deal with the Hornets for 2026.
Former Wigan Warriors man “found my love rugby again” after securing Championship deal
Speaking on his return to the sport, and on his move to the Hornets, Waterworth can’t wait to get back into the groove of playing rugby league again.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be signing for Rochdale Hornets,” he said. “After speaking with Andy Mazey and Gary Thornton, I knew I wanted to be part of the club’s vision and I can’t wait to contribute by working hard.
“I’ve had a few years away from the game, but I’ve found my love for rugby again and I’m excited to get started.”
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Welcome to Rochdale, Luke Waterworth ✍️
We are excited to announce the signing of the 29-year-old hooker on a one-year deal.
📰: https://t.co/w7bEr2UHu6 pic.twitter.com/EtPdrJ4NDi
— Rochdale Hornets (@RochdaleHornets) October 8, 2025
