Winona State University Welcomes New Volleyball Head Coach Tricia Melfy
Winona State University (WSU) recently announced the appointment of Tricia Melfy as the new head coach for the WSU Volleyball team. Athletic Director Jen Flowers expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Coach Melfy. She is the right person to lead Warrior Volleyball forward.”
Melfy isn’t new to coaching; she brings over 25 years of experience and has achieved more than 400 career wins. Before joining WSU, she was the head coach at East Stroudsburg University, where her leadership led the team to impressive victories, including a PSAC East Regular Season Championship and a historic first NCAA Division II National Tournament win.
“I am honored to lead the volleyball program at Winona State,” Melfy shared. She aims to build on a strong team foundation and appreciates the opportunity given to her. “I’m eager to work with our Warriors family,” she added.
In her recent season at East Stroudsburg, Melfy’s efforts earned her the title of AVCA Atlantic Region Coach of the Year for 2025. Under her guidance, the ESU Warriors experienced numerous accolades, including two NCAA DII National Tournament appearances and individual honors for players.
Melfy’s coaching record at East Stroudsburg was commendable, standing at 102 wins and 46 losses (.689). She also produced several star athletes, such as two All-Americans and multiple Player of the Year award winners.
Her coaching journey includes stints at Fort Lewis College and Phoenix College as well as a role as an assistant at Minot State University in North Dakota.
As a former athlete, Melfy’s accomplishments are notable—she was a two-time All-American in heptathlon at Arizona State University and qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials twice. She discovered her love for volleyball while competing in college.
Melfy earned her degree in exercise science from Arizona State in 1994 and has since pursued further education, including a master’s degree in educational leadership.
As WSU looks to the future, Melfy’s broad experience, passion for the sport, and commitment to student-athletes promise an exciting season ahead.
According to a recent survey by the NCAA, strong coaching has a significant impact on player performance and team morale, highlighting the importance of such leadership in college athletics.
For more insights on coaching impacts, you can explore the NCAA’s resources here.
