In recent seasons we've benefited from a close connection with Sale Sharks which has seen Will Riley, Harry Thompson and Rouban Birch representing Hoppers on a 'dual registration ' basis. All 3 have retuned to Sale and represented the full Sale Sharks side.

The latest player to join us is Alfie Longstaff who has featured off the bench in our last 2 games, impressing both times.

Alfie attended Rodillian Academy High School, & Woodhouse Grove, Bradford, for Sixth Form. He has been capped 3 times for England U18s in South Africa and once for England U19s. He was a part of Warrington’s Academy (rugby league) between 14-16. He attended Yorkshire Rugby Academy between 16-18 and captained the side in his last season.
He signed a professional contract with Sale Sharks in July 2024 and joined Preston Grasshoppers as a dual-registered player in August 2024.

On representing Hoppers, Alfie said, “Making my debut for Preston last week was a great experience, it was my first senior match and it gave a good insight of what’s ahead for the season. The lads have been welcoming and the fans were also, as I made my home debut against Tynedale. I have had a good initial taste of rugby at Preston and I am eager for more.”
We wish Alfie all the very best during his time with us!