Magazine - Spring 2026

Rochdale Hornets Sporting Foundation

The Hive

Rochdale Hornets Sporting Foundation is the official charity of Rochdale Hornets Rugby League Club.

Based at The Hive, Million Pavilion, Balderstone Park, rugby league is where it began - but the foundation’s work is about using the power of sport and community to improve lives across Rochdale.

Through a growing programme of activity, a team of staff and volunteers support people to get active, connect with others, build confidence and feel part of something positive. From children with additional needs taking part in tag rugby, to adults enjoying supported walking groups, and players competing in wheelchair rugby league, the foundation works with people at every stage of life.

Recent funding has enabled the foundation to expand its reach, including:

• Wild at The Hive, transforming outdoor space to support wellbeing, biodiversity and community connection.
• Walking Through History, a guided walking group encouraging gentle activity and social connection.
• A dedicated Sensory Space at The Hive for children, young people and families.
• SEND and Learning Disability Tag Rugby, creating inclusive opportunities to play and belong.
• A long-established and successful Wheelchair Rugby League team, competing and inspiring year after year

Together, these projects reflect a clear commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and community pride.

Values

• Inclusion - Sport and activity should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background or ability.
• Well-being - Supporting healthier, happier lives, both physically and mentally.
• Community - Rochdale first: building pride, opportunity and connection in our town.
• Inspiration - Helping people believe in themselves and what they can achieve.

“Everything we do is powered by people - our passionate staff, our dedicated volunteers, and the individuals and families we work alongside every day.”

The Hive

The Hive at Balderstone Park is more than a building. It is a growing community space where people can meet, learn, create and take part in activities that support wellbeing and connection.

What you’ll find at The Hive:

• The Café - a friendly, welcoming place to meet, chat and relax.
• Sensory Space - a calm, inclusive environment for children and young people with additional needs, and their families.
• Green Space - the base for Wild at The Hive, bringing nature, colour and wildlife back into the park.
• Creative and Community Sessions - from arts and crafts to co-design and wellbeing activities.
• Community Hub - a space for local groups and individuals to connect and collaborate.

The Hive is being shaped by the people who use it. Whether you’re joining a walk, taking part in a session, supporting a project, or simply stopping by for a brew, it’s a place to feel welcome and involved.

Drop in, get involved, or just enjoy the space. The Hive is for the community - now and as it continues to grow.