Rochdale sign Ellis Gillam

Drew Darbyshire

Rochdale have signed back-rower Ellis Gillam from Whitehaven for the 2019 season.

The Cumbrian played under Hornets’ head coach Carl Forster at Haven last term, and will link up with him again.

Gillam came through Warrington Wolves’ academy and captained their Under-19s side.

On joining Rochdale, Gillam said: “I loved my time up at Whitehaven and working with Carl.

“The attraction of Championship rugby league brought me to Rochdale and I’m looking forward to getting started with my new team-mates.”

Forster commented: “Ellis is a great capture for the club.

“When working with him last year, you could see his real quality and with another step up in standard, he will continue to develop.

“As soon as I got the job, Ellis was a top priority, so I’m made up to get the deal over the line.”