Rory Herman, a 23-year-old, forward has joined the Cardiff Devils on a one-year contract from RPI College of the NCAA.
Herman, who departed the collegiate level early to ink a professional contract in the Elite League, recorded 11 points (four goals, seven assists) in 70 appearances for the RPI Engineers.
“I am very thankful and appreciative for all the love and support I received during my time at RPI. The memories are countless,” Herman told RPI Athletics. “I am very excited to be turning pro and I know all the things I learned from the coaching staff, my teammates, and the trainers will help me succeed at that level. I am thankful for this next chapter in my life and grateful for the opportunity.”
The American also boasts experience in the USHL, in which he posted 50 points (22 goals, 28 assists) in 136 appearances for Green Bay Gamblers and Fargo Force.
“He’s a young guy who is hungry to take the next step into pro hockey. He understands the role we are looking for,” Devils head coach Brodie Dupont explained. “We are short on bodies, and we are looking to add players that can bring energy to our lineup. Rory fits that mould. He likes to hit, is reliable defensively and is excited for the opportunity to come to Cardiff.”
Herman is expected to debut for the Devils on Thursday [22 December] on the road versus the Manchester Storm.
Analysis: Cardiff Devils roll the dice on inexperienced Rory Herman
Rory Herman arrives in the Elite League with plenty to prove after his time with the RPI Engineers – which is the same division one programme that Cardiff Devils alumni Jake Morrissette and Andrew Lord attended before they entered the professional ranks.
“Rory leaves RPI in a better place than when he arrived,” said RPI head coach Dave Smith. “As a consummate team player, he has been great in the locker room and has a terrific work ethic. His graduation timing and the opportunity to get closer to his goal of playing for Team GB are the contributing factors for him to turn pro at this time. We wish Rory continued success.”
Rory Herman, RPI Engineers (Image: Haley Cole)
The California-born forward, who also holds a UK Passport, was deployed almost exclusively in the bottom-six during his collegiate career and will be expected to play defensively responsible hockey by Brodie Dupont.
Herman, who is comfortable in any position across the forward line, was recruited with one objective in mind: to improve a defensive structure that has proven too easy to breach so far this year.
The Devils sit nine points and two places behind the Guildford Flames at the halfway point of the season. Will the arrival of Herman help them turn the tide in the title race? Time will tell.
