Admirals hand out awards at year-end banquet

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Admirals season ended a few weeks ago so now it’s time for the awards.

The year-end awards banquet was held Sunday evening at Shooters Roadhouse with five awards being handed out to players who earned them.

Co-owners Greg Crain and Matt Fox presided over the award presentations, but first took time out to thank parents, sponsors, volunteers and all those who made the 2022-23 Jr. C hockey season happen in Amherstburg.

Crain said the volunteers were seen during games “but you also see them behind the scenes.” That includes announcers, scorekeepers, social media posters, front desk staff and anthem singers.

“It takes a village to run a team,” said Fox. “It’s not a one-man show.”

Fox also introduced new general manager Andrew Sykes, noting his background with the LaSalle Vipers and Windsor Spitfires.

“We’re so glad he’s part of our team,” said Fox.

“He has the connections. He has the visibility for players coming up the system,” said Crain.

Sykes said while it’s very early in his tenure as GM, he sees reason for optimism going forward.

“I believe we can take strides as an organization going forward,” added Sykes. “It can come sooner rather than later.”

Sykes encouraged players to be happy with their accomplishments –whether that be scoring their first junior hockey goal or beating a rival club. The Admirals finished sixth in the PJHL Stobbs Division and lost in the first round to Wheatley in the playoffs.

“We have a chance to build on those experiences,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to providing a good junior hockey experience for everyone.”

Mitchell Demelo was named team MVP, but the most valuable player was unable to attend the banquet. His brother and teammate Connor accepted the award on his behalf. Crain said Mitchell was a leader in the dressing room and on the ice and juggled school, work, his social life and his hockey career.

The Most Improved Player award was Stefan Jacobs. Crain said Jacobs got “better and better” as the season went on.

Derek Berdusco was named the Most Dedicated Player. Crain said he came through numerous injuries and surgeries and provided good play to the Admirals when he was available.

The Rookie of the Year Award was given to Stefan Djordjevic, who Crain said gained confidence and improved as the year went on.

The Earl Allard Award, named for Fox’s grandfather, was presented to Jadyn Brown. Fox said the award was created to go to a player that coaches can always rely on.

The Volunteers of the Year were Ainnsley Russett, Kelly Russett and Ashlyn Guthrie.