Chandler Romeo Joins Wentworth Gryphins for 2025-26 Season

The Wentworth Gryphins have landed a towering presence for their blue line with the addition of Chandler Romeo, a 6-foot-6 defenseman drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the seventh round of the 2021 NHL Draft (202nd overall). At just 22 years old, Romeo brings a mix of professional experience, junior pedigree, and untapped potential to his new squad.

From Junior Ranks to Pro Ice

Romeo cut his teeth in the Ontario Hockey League, skating with the Hamilton Bulldogs, Sarnia Sting, and Guelph Storm. Known for his shutdown style and physical edge, he logged over 180 OHL games and produced 21 goals and 31 assists for 52 points along the way. His breakout stretch came in 2022-23 when he tallied 12 points in 54 games split between Sarnia and Guelph, showcasing growth at both ends of the rink.

Professional Journey

Romeo made his professional debut in the ECHL during the 2024-25 season, and it was a crash course in adapting to the pace of the pro game. He began the year with the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, where his defensive reliability earned him regular minutes. Over 37 games in Greenville, he posted a goal and three assists, while piling up 36 penalty minutes and gaining a reputation as a physical presence who wasn’t afraid to mix it up.

Mid-season, Romeo had short stints with the Idaho Steelheads and the Bloomington Bison. With Idaho, he played in 10 contests, where his size and reach gave him opportunities to kill penalties and protect the crease against some of the league’s most potent offenses. His five-game stay in Bloomington capped off his rookie campaign, giving him experience with a brand-new franchise adjusting to the league spotlight.

By the end of the year, Romeo had logged 52 total ECHL games across three clubs, finishing with a single goal, four assists, and 42 penalty minutes. More importantly, he gained exposure to different coaching systems and team identities, a trial by fire that should benefit him heading into his role with Wentworth.

What Fans Can Expect

Now heading into 2025-26 with the Wentworth Gryphins of the ACH, Romeo is eager to take another step forward. At 6’6” and 207 pounds, his frame alone makes him hard to miss, but it’s his commitment to defending and his willingness to play physically that will earn him trust on the back end. Fans should look for Romeo to bring toughness, steady play, and flashes of the offensive touch he displayed in juniors.

With youth on his side and experience already piling up, Chandler Romeo is a name to keep an eye on as the Gryphins prepare for the season ahead.