Rochdale AFC has set a new goal with the launch of its netball team, Rochdale AFC Netball, following an agreement with Rochdale Netball Club. The partnership will see Rochdale Netball Club rebrand and become part of the club's wider Our Teams family. This move aims to create a stronger platform to grow netball and widen access to physical activity across Rochdale, from primary school participation through to junior and adult club netball, coaching, volunteering, and leadership.
What happened?
Rochdale AFC, Rochdale AFC Community Trust, and Rochdale Netball Club have announced the launch of Rochdale AFC Netball. The partnership will raise the sport's profile locally, strengthen school-to-club links, and give more people a clear route into the game.
Why it matters for Rochdale
The agreement will also support wider community goals, with Rochdale AFC Community Trust working alongside Rochdale AFC Netball on new programmes in schools, holiday provision, health and wellbeing, and volunteer development. Operating under a shared Rochdale AFC identity will also open new opportunities from commercial support and matchday promotion to community events and sponsorship.
What comes next?
Amy Williams, Chair of Rochdale AFC Netball, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for our club and for netball across Rochdale. Joining the Rochdale AFC family gives us a stronger platform to grow the game, inspire more women and girls to get involved, and create new opportunities for players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters."
League standing
Rochdale AFC currently sits 23rd in League Two, with 0 points from 1 game, and a recent form of L. Goals this season have been scarce, with 0 scored and 3 conceded, resulting in a -3 goal difference.
Next fixture
Rochdale AFC's next fixture is against York, away on 2027-02-27.
Community impact
The partnership between Rochdale AFC and Rochdale Netball Club aims to boost visibility, participation, and long-term sustainability, with a community-first approach that reflects the town's sporting pride and welcomes people of all ages. Ryan Bradley, Community Director at Rochdale AFC Community Trust, added: "From the very first discussions, it was clear that we were all on the same page. The football club, the charity, and the netball club all have a shared purpose and values as well as complimentary strengths and challenges we can face better together."
Support for local netball
The partnership will also support wider community goals, with Rochdale AFC Community Trust working alongside Rochdale AFC Netball on new programmes in schools, holiday provision, health and wellbeing, and volunteer development. Operating under a shared Rochdale AFC identity will also open new opportunities from commercial support and matchday promotion to community events and sponsorship.
Conclusion
Rochdale AFC's launch of its netball team is a significant step towards growing the sport and widening access to physical activity across Rochdale. The partnership between Rochdale AFC and Rochdale Netball Club aims to create a stronger platform to grow netball and give more people a clear route into the game. With a community-first approach, Rochdale AFC Netball is set to make a positive impact on the local community.
