Rochdale Hornets, competing in League 1, have officially announced the signing of Fijian prop Joe Taira, marking his return to the Crown Oil Arena for a third time. The 35-year-old first joined the club in 2016, where he has since made a notable contribution with 104 appearances.
Taira’s journey with the Hornets began with a significant run from 2016 to 2018, during which he played 70 matches before spending two seasons with Batley Bulldogs. He returned to Rochdale in 2021, adding another 34 appearances over the subsequent years. Following a recent stint with community club Rochdale Mayfield, Taira has signed a one-year deal for 2025 to rejoin the Hornets.
While he did not officially earn a cap for the Fiji national team, Taira represented the Bati in a World Cup warm-up match against England in October 2022, adding an international feather to his cap.
Expressing his excitement about returning to the Hornets, Taira stated, “I’m buzzing to be back at the place I started my professional career, and I find it fitting that it’s where I will end it.” He is optimistic about the team’s potential, highlighting their promising performances last season and stating his desire to prove his worth as his career winds down.
The Hornets finished third in League 1 last season but were eliminated from the playoffs at home by Hunslet, who eventually secured promotion. Head coach Gary Thornton expressed his delight at Taira’s return, noting that his experience and tenacity will be instrumental for the team next season. Thornton also emphasized Taira’s reputation as a respected player among the fans and teammates, indicating that his presence will greatly benefit the Hornets in their pursuit of success in 2025.
In a positive light, the return of Taira brings not only experience but also a sense of loyalty to the team, which can inspire both current players and fans. With the foundations of the last season laid, Taira’s motivation could be pivotal in helping Rochdale Hornets achieve their goals going forward.
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