(Niagara Falls, ON) The Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022-23 PHPA Built Tough Award as voted by PHPA Members at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. 

The PHPA Built Tough Award is presented to one player from the American Hockey League and ECHL Eastern and Western Conferences considered by their peers to be the toughest in their respective conference.  A player who is always there for his teammates and helps make his team one of the most challenging to play against.

ECHL Eastern Conference: James Melindy, Newfoundland Growlers

Melindy is not only a great leader, but also brings a physical style of play which allows his teammates to be comfortable on the ice and excel in their roles.  The 6’3, 203 pound Growlers Captain recorded 2 goals and 13 assists in 47 games while amassing 162 penalty minutes.  Drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes in 2012, the Gouls, Newfoundland native has tallied 1,200 career penalty minutes across 481 professional games split between the AHL and ECHL.

“I’ve always been a player that has put his teammates first,” said Melindy.  “Your team becomes an extension of your family, and taking care of them is a priority.  The more comfortable your teammates are the more they can be themselves, and the better they can play.  I’ve always prided myself in trying to do that for my team.” 

ECHL Western Conference: Sean Allen, Cincinnati Cyclones

The 25-year-old defenseman from Puslinch, Ontario had a physically dominant season for the Cincinnati Cyclones in his first full season with the team.  Allen produced one goal and 14 assists with a +28 rating while leading all ECHL defensemen in penalty minutes (219).  The 6’3, 205 pound defenseman has quickly become a fan favorite in Cincinnati for his physical style of play and his willingness to stick up for teammates.

“Definitely a bittersweet moment receiving this award,” said Allen.  “The role that I take pride in often times goes unnoticed.  I personally would like to thank my coaches and teammates this season.  Without them this wouldn’t have been possible.”

AHL Eastern Conference: Dylan McIlrath, Hershey Bears

A two-time winner of the PHPA Built Tough Award, McIlrath’s ability to combine his leadership and physical style of play makes him difficult to play against.  Standing at 6’5 and weighing 235 pounds, the Hershey Bears Captain amassed 102 penalty minutes during the 2022-23 season.  McIlrath completed his 11^th professional season after being drafted by the New Yor k Rangers in the first-round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.

“It’s an honor to receive this award, especially coming from my peers,” said McIlrath.  “There are so many tough players in our conference, and I feel grateful for the recognition.”

AHL Western Conference: Keaton Middleton, Colorado Eagles

Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the fourth-round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Keaton Middleton suited up for 72 games with the Colorado Eagles this season amassing 125 penalty minutes while adding 3 goals and 20 assists.  The 6’6, 240 pound Assistant Captain finished his fifth professional season and third with the club.  Prior to turning pro, he played four seasons with the Saginaw Spirit of the OHL where he was the team’s Captain in his final two seasons.

“It’s an honor to receive any award, but feels even better when it’s voted by the players you battle against every night,” said Middleton. 

-www.PHPA.com-

About the PHPA

Since its inception in 1967, the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) has continued to serve as an advocate of player interests.  Currently, the PHPA is the certified, U.S. National Labor Relations Board collective bargaining representative for over 1,600 players across 60 teams throughout the American Hockey League and ECHL.  Visit PHPA.com, follow the PHPA on Instagram (@thephpa), Twitter (@thephpa), and tune into the PHPA Podcast.