Preston Grasshoppers is pleased to announce the signing of 4 players to boost the squad for next seasons campaign.
We are delighted to announce that Chris Roddy, an experienced 2nd row, joins from Stourbridge, Back Rower Sam Wallbank returns from Vale of Lune, Phil Mills returns from a season up the road at Fylde and Sam Russell returns from a rugby sabbatical.
Roddy, Wallbank and Mills will add experience and size to the Hoppers pack who faired well last season, they will also give the strength in depth needed to contend at the top end of the league.
Chris Roddy (pictured at the top of the page with ball)is an experienced player having had a spell at Macclesfield in National 1, Stockport in National 2 and more recently Stourbridge. When asked about joining Preston Roddy said “I am pleased to be joining such an illustrious club and looking forward to joining the team in pre season. I have played against Hoppers twice last season and I can see the potential for success within the squad.”
Sam Wallbank in action for Vale of Lune
In his last spell at Hoppers Sam Wallbank was crowned Preston Grasshopers 1st XV Player of the year, but had to return to Vale of Lune due to work commitments. Sam now has a new job and is a fantastic signing for the club. When asked about returning to Preston Sam said “I am very excited about returning to Preston and national league rugby, I had a taste of it a couple of years ago and am raring to challenge myself again at this level.”
Phil in action during his previous spell at the club
Phil Mills returns to the club after a short spell at Fylde, he is a powerful ball carrier and has benefitted from his exposure to the league above. Phil is pleased to be rejoining Preston and said “It is great to be coming back to Hoppers, its a fantastic club with a good atmosphere and I am looking forward to being part of that again.”
Sam Russell with the ball
When asked about the signings Director of Rugby Alan Holmes said “We worked hard in March and April to secure the whole squad and now have most of the players on two year contracts. This will allow us the continuity to drive the squad forward and become a contender within this league. I am delighted to add the likes of Chris and Sam in to our back 5, this will add experience and create healthy competition. In the front row we have Phil Mills coming back, having worked with Phil before he will bring huge energy to the pitch and will be a great competitor for the 2 shirt along with the very impressive 18 year old Christian Taylor. As well as the additions up front we have Sammy Russell who is a class act and will add to our creativity in the back line. We have a terrific young squad coming together and it is an exciting time for us, especially with the addition of the 3G pitch next season, Hoppers will be a great place to come and watch rugby. “
