Royals Strengthen Their Frontline with the Signing of Forward Mike Romas

Essendon Royals are pleased to confirm the signing of forward Mike Romas for the 2026 VPL2 season.

Romas arrives in Essendon after a season back home in Adelaide but is no stranger to VPL2. Before his break from the game, he held leadership roles at both Box Hill United and Nunawading City, including captaining Box Hill during a strong spell in VPL2. A powerful presence up front, Romas combines physicality, aggression and a sharp finishing instinct with an ability to link play and bring teammates into dangerous areas.

The 26-year-old’s football journey has taken him from Adelaide United’s youth setup to a trial stint at Sporting Lisbon, before returning to Victoria where he established himself as a respected and imposing attacker.

“I’m a bigger frame out there, so I like to hold up the ball, play aggressive and score goals,” Romas told Royals Media. “Football’s always been in the family – cousins who played NPL, my dad represented Australia in futsal – the names are around Football Victoria for sure.”

Romas said the move to Essendon has been a long time coming.

“Playing Essendon over the years, it’s always been a good club and a tough place to go,” he said. “I’ve always liked what they’re doing – even the media stuff you guys produce – and after games I’d always chat to Mick. I’d always wondered what it would be like to play under him.”

When the call came this year, the decision felt natural.

“I thought, why not? It’s always been a club I’ve looked at and thought, ‘Yeah, I wouldn’t mind being there eventually.'”

Romas joins with a clear sense of purpose.

“I want to win a title, win games, enjoy my football and score goals. There are some really good players around me in the middle and out wide – players who can put me through. It’s going to be a good frontline, a good backline. It’s a good side this year.”

Essendon Royals welcome Michael Romas to the club for the 2026 season.