Schaafsma Signed by AHL’s Houston

Blenheim’s Jamie Schaafsma has made a significant step up the hockey ladder being signed to a professional tryout contract by the American Hockey League’s Houston Aeros.

After collecting 15 goals and 15 assists in 41 games for the first place Allen Americans in the Central Hockey League, Schaafsma was signed by Houston on Monday.

Schaafsma was immediately inserted into Houston’s lineup, playing his first career American Hockey League game, finishing with a plus one rating and no points as Houston fell to San Antonio 5-2.

The American Hockey League serves as the top affiliate for the NHL, with the Houston Aeros as the Minnesota Wild’s top affiliate.

Houston travels to Grand Rapids February 6, Milwaukee February 8, and Rockford February 9.

Schaafsma, who is 29, has spent the bulk of his professional career in Europe.