Originally from New Mexico, Head Coach Melissa Anderson comes to OJC by way of East Central University in Ada, Okla. where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and master’s degree in sports administration.
A graduate of Thoreau High School in Thoreau, N.M., Anderson lead her team in kills and blocks and was named to the 3A All-State team in 2001. She then continued her volleyball career at Lamar Community College for two years, earning an associate degree at LCC, and two years at Si Tanka University in Huron, S.D. While at Si Tanka, Anderson competed in the 2003 NAIA National Volleyball Tournament. Previously Anderson worked for the East Central University Athletic Department where she assisted with athletic compliance, eligibility, scholarships, and budgeting.
As Anderson enters her fourth season as a head coach she continues to learn everyday and uses her life experiences to build her own program.
“I played competitive volleyball for over 10 years, playing for a variety of coaches with many different styles. From those experiences, I have taken what I believe to be the most effective coaching methods and developed my own coaching style, using the best from the best,” said Anderson.
Rebecca Wright
Assistant Volleyball Coach
Rebecca Wright, Raton, N.M., is the new assistant volleyball coach at OJC. She will be responsible for assisting Head Coach Melissa Anderson with the day to day functions of the Rattler Volleyball program.
Wright is a graduate of OJC and former Lady Rattler volleyball player. She will complete a bachelor’s degree in accounting from CSU-Pueblo in May, 2012. While a student at OJC, Wright served as team captain her freshman and sophomore years. She was named All-Region both years and was named Academic All-American for two years with a 4.0 grade point average.
Wright said she accepted the position at OJC because she enjoyed the atmosphere and staff at the college while she was a student. “From the president to the janitorial staff, everyone made the effort to get to know the students and help them succeed. At OJC, students are not just another number, and I am thankful for the experience I had here,” she said.
Wright said her goal as a member of the OJC staff is to help members of the volleyball team reach their full potential as a student and as a player. “I feel that a person’s work ethic is a direct reflection on themselves, and hopefully I will instill a work ethic that the girls will carry with them through their athletic and professional careers,” she said.
