HC Ambrì-Piotta forward Roby Järventie is adapting to the National League after signing with the Swiss club ahead of the season, bringing extensive American Hockey League experience and NHL appearances to the Leventina valley. According to an interview published by the club, the 24-year-old Finnish attacker chose Switzerland to secure consistent playing time, heavy minutes in key situations, and a prominent role that eluded him during his final stretch in North America.
Selected in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the Ottawa Senators, Järventie amassed 138 points across 204 AHL games. He also skated in 10 NHL contests split between Ottawa and the Edmonton Oilers. Despite his production, the forward stated that he needed to escape a stagnation of ice time and secure regular shifts at five-on-five and on the power play.
Career Transition to the National League
Järventie explained that discussions with general manager Lars Weibel and head coach Jussi Tapola solidified his decision to move to Switzerland. Several peers recommended the league, convincing him that the environment would support his development under strong coaching. Moving to Europe also brings him closer to home after nearly six seasons abroad, though he maintains a long-term ambition of returning to the NHL.
“I wanted to return to Europa and Switzerland was the league where I wanted to play,” Järventie said, according to the club interview. “After speaking with Lars Weibel and Jussi Tapola, I understood I would have a good role here where I can play a lot, work on my game, and rely on excellent coaches.”
Managing Physical Recovery and Expectations
The forward arrives in Ambrì following previous knee injuries that disrupted his development in North America. However, Järventie noted that the physical setbacks no longer trouble him, provided he maintains a strict training regimen to keep his joints strong.
At 24, Järventie is relatively young for an import player in the National League, where clubs lean heavily on foreign skaters to drive offense and shoulder leadership responsibilities. While acknowledging the heightened expectations placed on imports, the forward expressed confidence in his readiness to handle the demands of the Swiss top flight.
Reuniting With National Team Staff
In Ambrì, Järventie plays under head coach Jussi Tapola, who served as an assistant coach for the Finnish national team that won gold at the World Championship. Järventie acknowledged that earning a spot on the senior national team is a primary career goal that he aims to pursue through strong performances in the National League.
On the ice, the forward continues to use a notably short stick relative to his height—a habit formed during his youth. He noted that the equipment choice helps him keep the puck close to his body, protect possession, and execute plays more efficiently in tight spaces.