Rochdale Hornets, a League 1 rugby team, has announced the signing of Fijian prop Joe Taira, marking his third return to the Crown Oil Arena. The 35-year-old player, who began his professional journey with the Hornets in 2016, has made 104 appearances for the club to date. Taira played 70 times for Rochdale between 2016 and 2018, spent two seasons with the Batley Bulldogs, and returned to the Hornets in 2021 to add 34 more games to his record.
After playing for the community club Rochdale Mayfield, Taira has signed a one-year contract for the 2025 season. Notably, he has a connection to international play, having represented Fiji in a notable match against England in October 2022, although it did not count as an official cap since it was a World Cup warm-up game.
Expressing his excitement about returning, 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 reflected on the previous season, acknowledging the team’s near success and his desire to contribute to their progress moving forward, particularly as he approaches the end of his playing career.
The Hornets had a commendable season, finishing third in League 1 but were eliminated in the playoffs by Hunslet, who ultimately secured promotion. Head coach Gary Thornton welcomed Taira’s return, emphasizing his experience and the value he will bring to the squad in the upcoming season.
This signing not only brings a familiar face back to the team but also a wealth of experience that could help guide the Hornets in their quest for success in the coming year. With a focus on growth and improvement, the team looks set to leverage Taira’s commitment and skill to enhance their performance in League 1.
Overall, the return of a seasoned player like Joe Taira can inspire the team and energize the fans, as they aim for greater achievements in the future.
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