On the celebration of the 153rd Canada Day, the Newfoundland Growlers announced on Wednesday that they have re-signed captain and fan favourite James Melindy to a one-year contract.
The 26-year-old defensemen, born and raised in Goulds, is the first official signing the Newfoundland Growlers have made this offseason. The veteran with AHL experience suited up for 35 matches last season, netting a goal and seven assists for eight total points and 78 penalty minutes. This grit-grinder with class, willing to do anything to stick up for his teammates, is a much required member of any hockey club, in ways that present both off and on the ice.
His leadership helped propel Newfoundland to winning the Kelly Cup in their inaugural season. Melindy, along with the other Growlers, will open up the season on home ice, facing either the Adirondack Thunder or the South Carolina Stingrays.