Drost and Richard Named UNB REDS Athletes of the Week

Drost and Richard Named UNB REDS Athletes of the Week

Monday, February 17, 2025

UNB REDS hockey players Melanie Drost and Samuel Richard have been named the UNB REDS/Monks & Jonesie Athletes of the Week following strong performances in their teams’ final regular season games.

Drost played a key role in the REDS’ weekend road victories, helping secure a first-round playoff bye. On Friday against STFX, she scored a game-tying goal with 3.5 seconds remaining to force overtime, leading to a shootout win. The following night, she recorded an assist in a 4-0 win over Dalhousie. “Mel delivered in the biggest moment when her team needed her most,” said REDS head coach Sarah Hilworth. “Her determination made a huge difference in both games.”

Richard backstopped the men’s hockey team to two wins, earning first- and third-star honors. In Wednesday’s 7-1 victory over UPEI, he made 20 saves on 21 shots. On Saturday, he stopped 30 of 31 shots in a 4-1 win over Moncton. “Sam was solid in the win over UPEI and exceptional in Moncton,” said head coach Rob Hennigar. “Our penalty kill was excellent, and he was the main reason, making key saves throughout.”

Both the men’s and women’s teams have secured a first-round playoff bye and will compete in the AUS semifinals against to-be-determined opponents.