The Newfoundland Growlers announced Wednesday that defenceman James Melindy, a Goulds native, has been named the team’s first captain.
“James is a tremendous player and person,” said Growlers coach Ryane Clowe. “On the ice, he leads by example. Off the ice, he is admired and respected by his teammates, coaches and training staff and will be a catalyst in our community.
“He’s a passionate player and a fierce competitor, and I'm confident that he'll be an excellent leader during our inaugural season.”
The 6-3, 185-pound defencemen has appeared in 11 games this season with the Growlers, with one assist and 40 penalty minutes. In 268 ECHL games, Melindy has 15 goals, 50 assists and 618 penalty minutes.
The 24-year-old rearguard has skated in 60 career American Hockey League games with the Portland Pirates and San Diego Gulls, combining for two goals and one assist, along with 100 penalty minutes.
He was drafted 88th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Zach O’Brien, Adam Pardy, Kyle Cumiskey and Alex Gudbranson will be the team’s assistant captains. Pardy and O’Brien will wear the A at home, Cumiskey and Gudbranson on the road.
