The Great Lake Canadians are thrilled to announce the full-time addition of Jamie Romak as the Director of Player Performance.

This is a substantial day for the organization and its players as Romak’s robust playing experience, passion, and expertise is unparalleled. Romak’s addition further emphasizes GLCs commitment to maximizing player development.

Director of Baseball Operations Chris Robinson stated, "today we are pleased to officially bring Jamie on board to join our development staff. In the past decade, when his career allowed him to be, he was here with us helping in any capacity that he could.

"His baseball resume speaks for itself and rivals most Canadians that have ever played the game. In addition to his experience as a player, we are gaining a person who is a relentless worker and as knowledgeable about the game as anyone I have ever been around."

Romak’s wealth of experience in professional baseball is second to none. The London, Ont. native was drafted in the 4th round of the 2003 draft by the Atlanta Braves. After spending a total of 12 years in the minors with several organizations, Romak debuted in the Major Leagues in 2014 with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Romak spent time with the Arizona Diamondbacks during the 2015 season before starting his international career with the Yokohama Bay Stars in the Japan Eastern League in 2016.

After an impressive final minor league stint with the San Diego Padres in 2017, Romak headed to Korea, joining the SK Wyverns in the Korean Baseball Organization, beginning a legendary tenure.  

Romak hit .273 with 155 home runs in five seasons with the organization, winning a championship in 2018. He's widely regarded as one of the most accomplished KBO players. In 2020, Romak was recognized by the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum with the prestigious Tip O'Neill Award.

During his extensive 19-year career, Romak also spent time in the Arizona Fall League, Dominican Winter League, Venezuelan Winter League and Hawaii Winter Baseball.

After retiring this fall, Romak is jumping right into action with GLC and is excited to influence the organization's players. He stated, "I am beyond excited to join the best group of baseball men I know in developing and mentoring the next generation of Canadian baseball players. I am a product of this community and have always felt a strong pull to serve those who are like-minded in their passion for the game."

"I look forward to pouring myself into this role in the same way I did my own career and helping to push forward what is already the best player development organization in Canada."

Robinson noted, "in the history of the franchise, we have been very fortunate to have had some exciting and rewarding times on and off the field. Many moments that stick out as moments that help solidify the GLC brand as one of the best amateur programs in the game. I believe we will look back at this day in which we are adding the asset that Jamie is going to be for our program, as one of the more impactful days we have ever had. He is a game-changer in so many ways, and I look forward to what he will be able to help accomplish for the next generation of GLC players."

Director of Player Development Adam Stern stated, "having an opportunity to add a person of Jamie Romak's credentials not only as a player but as a person is a huge asset to the GLC program. Jamie's passion towards the game and to amateur baseball in Canada will be a welcome addition. We look forward to having Jamie being an integral part of the development staff and furthering the GLC program."

As we head into the new year, the addition of Romak provides an immense level of excitement for what's to come.