A Warrington Wolves playmaker has left the club and signed with a League One club ahead of the 2026 season.

Of course, it’s expected that League One will not exist in 2026 with the Championship and League One competitions merging to create a 21-team second tier, below an expanded 14-team Super League.

The composition of that expanded Super League has now been confirmed with Salford Red Devils dropping out and Bradford Bulls, Toulouse Olympique and York Knights all confirmed in the top flight.

One man who won’t be playing in the top flight is young Warrington Wolves young Joe Hickey with Rochdale Hornets confirming that they’ve agreed a deal with the 19-year-old.

Hickey was a member of Warrington’s unbeaten reserve side in 2025 with the Wire youngsters making it all the way to the Grand Final, where they defeated Leeds Rhinos to secure silverware.

Many members of that side are now on tour Down Under but Hickey has left the Super League club to sign with Rochdale in the professional ranks for 2026.

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Young Warrington Wolves playmaker Joe Hickey signs with Rochdale Hornets

News of Hickey’s arrival was announced by the club with his impressive pedigree and 2025 campaign in the reserves noted.

A statement from the Hornets confirmed: “Rochdale Hornets have signed talented young half-back Joe Hickey ahead of the 2026 season.

“The 19-year-old impressed for Warrington Wolves’ reserve team last year, helping them to the Reserves Grand Final.

“He featured 12 times at reserve level during the 2025 campaign, scoring three tries.”

Hickey, who Rochdale believe is ‘destined for great things’ also spoke on the move, stating: “I’m really excited by the opportunity that has been given to me by the club.

“I can’t wait to rip in with the lads, get plenty of first team experience under my belt and put in performances which the Rochdale Hornets supporters can be proud of.”

Chairman Andy Mazey added: “We have a great relationship with Warrington, and it was whilst watching clips of potential loan players and attending the club’s reserve games that Joe came to Gary Thornton’s attention.

“Joe is a skilful half-back with the ability to produce game-changing moments, and he also possesses a fantastic kicking game.

“When we got the heads-up that he may be coming available, Gary and I wasted no time in meeting with him and his parents, and we are delighted he’s chosen Rochdale.

“We have a proven track record of giving opportunities to and developing young talent, and Joe is a player with an incredible amount of potential.

“We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Rochdale Hornets.”

🚨 New signing 🚨

We are delighted to announce the arrival of young @WarringtonRLFC half-back Joe Hickey on a one-year deal.

📰: https://t.co/c8fYLV6BZh pic.twitter.com/Uz17aoStoz

— Rochdale Hornets (@RochdaleHornets) October 17, 2025