STEVE MELE
American International College
Sr. | C | Bronx, N.Y.

Steve Mele

Key Statistics: Mele has seen progress in his offensive production over the course of his first three seasons in Springfield. In 37 games last season, Mele produced 10 goals, 11 assists, and 21 points with half of his goals coming in non-conference action. He ranked second on the team in goals and fourth in points. As a sophomore, he posted three goals and 11 points. His freshman season resulted in one goal and six points.

What He Does: AIC coach Gary Wright said Mele isn’t a particularly fluid skater but he is effective because he has some quickness and gets around the ice well. It took a couple seasons but Mele finally developed a scorer’s knack, willing to mix it up in front of the cage as well as taking more shots on net. Mele’s better numbers on offense has not come at the expense of his defense, which has improved.

The Bigger Picture: With the graduation of Nielsson Arcibal, Mele will be counted on to fill some of the scoring void. Mele has a shot at being a top-line center for the Yellow Jackets but he’s probably suited for the second or third line.

AIC coach Gary Wright on Mele: “This year his play will be very important to us. If he can improve on what he did last year, he will be a big asset to us.’’