Dallas comes to Romford.

Romford Raiders are delighted to announce the capture of Canadian centre, Dallas Costanzo.

Costanzo has been courted over the past few weeks by fellow British Columbian, Jesse Hammill, and with terms now agreed Raiders are in the happy position of confirming their first import forward.

A native of Montrose BC, 25 year old Costanzo began his hockey career with Vernon Vipers in the BCHL before moving to collegiate hockey in the ACAC with SAIT Trojans where he was voted Rookie of the Year in his first season. Named team captain the following season, the 6’0”, 185lb lefty led the Trojans to back-to-back ACAC championships and the Player of the Year award in his final season.

In a contemporary tribute, the SAIT coaching staff made special mention of Costanzo’s qualities. “He consistently demonstrates a standard of play that the team can’t help but follow. He is a team leader on the ice with the most faceoff wins and hits, especially during the playoffs. His tenacious and physical style of play makes him an unsung hero. Off the ice, Dallas is one of the most genuine people you will ever meet.”

On leaving college, Dallas entered CHL pro-hockey with a brief spell at Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs before moving to the Mississippi Riverkings where he completed the 2008/9 season.

“Dallas is exactly the type of player we’ve been looking for,” said a Raiders’ spokesman,” and for the last few weeks he’s been the guy we wanted. Jesse has had glowing reports wherever he’s checked and we firmly believe our new Raider is blessed with an attitude the Romford supporters will really respond to. Jesse and John have worked on the contract over the last couple of days and now we’re good to go. Dallas has played at a good standard from juniors through college and into pro hockey and we are really looking forward to him leading the line. I hear that Labrokes have stopped taking bets on the music we'll play when Dallas scores his first home goal."