AMERICAN Scott Romfo has signed up to complete Cardiff Devils’ defensive unit in next season’s Elite Ice Hockey League.
And the 27-year-old from Blaine, Minnesota, admits the challenge of crossing the Atlantic has given his career fresh impetus.
Having helped the South Carolina Stingrays win the East Coast League Kelly Cup championship last season, Romfo considered ending his playing career – until the Devils stepped in.
“Winning the cup was an unbelievable achievement for the team,” said Romfo.
“We won the series against Alaska Aces in the final. There were two trips to the Alaska area, 4,500 miles each way and a total of 18,000 miles travelling just for those matches. We won the championship and it was all worthwhile.
“I might have even stopped playing at that point, after four years with Stingrays, but I wanted to play on and Cardiff Devils have fired me up for the new challenge.”
He admits the move is a huge step into the unknown – personally and professionally.
“I’ve never been outside North America before,” he told the Echo.
“I’m excited about the new challenge ahead. I don’t know anybody over there apart from Mike Hartwick, who I played against in college hockey.
“The coach, Gerad Adams, is putting together a strong team and I can’t wait to get started.
“Winning a championship with the Stingrays last season has whetted my appetite and I want more success.”
Romfo is coming to Britain on the recommendation of older brother Jeff, an NHL draft pick for Minnesota North Stars.
“Jeff always wanted to play in Europe, but didn’t get to do that when he was playing,” said Scott.
“He would always give me advice through his career. He is seven years older than me and has not played since 2000, but we agree playing hockey in Wales and Britain will be a great experience.
“I’m a solid, two-way defenceman. I’m not flash and not the most skilled player in the world, but I do my job, work hard for the team and offensively I can make an impact.”
Romfo played for Tri-City Storm in the US Hockey League, playing two years of varsity hockey at Blaine High School, winning the AA State Championship, plus four years of college hockey for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Now, after four seasons with the Stingrays, he is to combine playing for the Devils with studies at Cardiff University along with new team-mates Wes Jarvis and Hartwick.
