Amherstburg Admirals’ Meloche in tight race for scoring title

This year’s Junior C scoring title in the Bill Stobbs division is far from decided when it comes to local hockey.

With only four games remaining in the regular season, there is a three-way tie for first place with 23 goals. In addition, two more players are only one goal behind with 22 goals. 

Among the players hoping to win the scoring title is Amherstburg Admirals captain, Broden Meloche. The 21-year-old, also a native of Amherstburg, has found the back of the net 23 times and leads his team with 40 points.  

“I think it would be cool to win, but finishing third place definitely comes first,” said Meloche on the possibility of winning the scoring title. “I’m not thinking about it too much these last games. My focus is picking up as many points as possible before playoffs.” 

The Admirals franchise has not had a player lead the division in scoring since James Brooks led with 33 goals in the 2014-2015 season. 

According to Brooks, he may not be the only Admirals to win the award for long. He said he believes Meloche can win the scoring title based on his talent alone.  Brooks added he was put into a situation to succeed in 2014 when he won the title, having been surrounded by line mate Mark Gagnon and having the support of his coaches. 

“I wouldn’t have put up close to 33 goals without [Gagnon],” said Brooks. “And of course, thanks to (Matt) Fox and the coaching staff for letting me play 30 [minutes] a night.” 

The Admirals remaining regular season games are Jan. 31 in Lakeshore, Feb. 4 in Essex, Feb. 5 in Wallaceburg and Feb. 9 in Amherstburg where Meloche and the remaining over-age players will be celebrated prior to the game as part of the team’s “OA Night” celebrations.