SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Justin “Ace” Romero spends his days mentoring at-risk youth at Long Creek Youth Development Center. But outside the facility, he steps into the ring as a professional wrestler, performing across the East Coast.
Romero has been on the independent wrestling circuit for 15 years, known by fans as “Ace Romero,” WMTW reports. His signature moves, including “the pounce” and the “package pile-driver,” have made him a recognizable name in the wrestling community.
One day, the kids at Long Creek recognized him on TV.
“It was a cool feeling for them to watch it and see if they have dreams — whatever they want to do they can do it,” Romero told WMTW.
While wrestling has been a longtime passion, Romero told WMTW that his role as a correctional officer has become just as meaningful.
“Coming here was a learning curve at first but instantly I fell in love with this job. I’ve wrestled in front of thousands and thousands of people all over the world and this job is the coolest things I’ve ever done.”
Romero says his experience in the ring has helped him connect with the youth at Long Creek, particularly in reading social cues and adapting to different situations.
“You go in there and you try to get a reaction from the kids and if they’re having a bad day, you learn how to pivot and make their day better. Same thing in a match. If you’re having a bad match or you’re not getting the reaction you want you have to pivot and try to change on the fly. It’s the same thing here.”
Beyond the day-to-day challenges, Romero sees his role as a chance to be a positive influence, particularly for those who grew up without strong role models.
“I just hope that when they leave here they go on to do whatever they want to do in a positive way, and they learn from their mistakes,” Romero told WMTW. “We have kids that say, ‘Oh I want to work here when I get older,’ that’s always pretty cool.”
Are you a corrections officer who does something fun or unique in your off-duty time? We want to hear from you! Email sroebuck@lexipol.com.
