COVENTRY Blaze have signed American forward Sam Ruffin ahead of the 2025/26 Elite League season.
The 26-year-old split last season between ECHL and SPHL and most recently played for the Huntsville Havoc.
Ruffin registered 28 points (nine goals, 19 assists) in 29 SPHL games.
Blaze head coach, Kevin Moore said: “I’ve known Sam for a long time and I know what he can do if given the opportunity.
“He has good speed and plays a sound 200-foot game.
“He also has great habits and I look to use Sam in a variety of roles this season.
“I am excited to coach him for a second time and have him in Coventry.”
Ruffin turned professional in 2023/24 with Indy Fuel of the ECHL where he tallied 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in 30 appearances.
Before turning professional, the right-shooting winger began his collegiate career at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks (NCAA Division I) in 2018/19.
He played 29 games before transferring to Adrian College (NCAA Division III) where he worked with current Blaze head coach Moore.
Ruffin enjoyed a standout four years with Adrian as he helped the Bulldogs capture three NCHA Championships and the 2021/22 NCAA DIII National Championship.
He amassed 136 points (50 goals, 86 assists) in 103 games for Adrian.
