Coach Melnikov grew up in Gomel, Belarus, where he started his hockey career. He played for 11 years for HC Gomel. At the age of 15 was called up for U16 Belarus national team tryouts.
After moving to the United States played one season for u16 Cleveland Barons (AAA), then two seasons for u18 Milwaukee Admirals (AAA), where in season 2019-20 won the state championship.
Coach Melnikov started his Junior career playing for Provo Riverblades (USPHL Premier), and he finished his junior career in Fort Wayne playing for Spacemen (USPHL Premier). He played for the Indiana Tech hockey team.
He was a goalie coach for Fort Wayne Spacemen (USPHL Premier) for two years and a FWAHA lead instructor for three years before becoming a MEGA lead goalie instructor.
