Rochdale Hornets, a club in League 1, has announced the return of Fijian prop Joe Taira for a third time at the Crown Oil Arena. The 35-year-old began his professional journey with the Hornets back in 2016, having played a total of 104 matches for the team.
Taira’s career with Rochdale includes 70 games from 2016 to 2018, after which he spent two seasons with Batley Bulldogs before returning in 2021, contributing an additional 34 appearances. Following some time with the community club Rochdale Mayfield, he has now signed a one-year contract that will see him play for the Hornets in 2025.
While Taira has not officially capped for Fiji, he did represent the national team during a World Cup warm-up against England in October 2022, a game that adds to his impressive career record.
Expressing his excitement about rejoining the club where it all began, Taira said, “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 also emphasized his belief in the team’s potential for improvement and his desire to contribute positively in his final playing years.
Last season, Rochdale finished third in League 1 but was eliminated from the playoffs at home by Hunslet, who eventually secured promotion. Hornets’ head coach Gary Thornton expressed his pleasure in welcoming Taira back, noting his importance in both attack and defense, as well as his positive influence among teammates.
Taira’s return to Rochdale Hornets is not only a significant personal milestone but also a hopeful prospect for the team as they aim to build on last season’s performance and push for greater success in the upcoming year. The experience and leadership he brings could be instrumental in helping the squad take that next important step forward.
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