Mellisa Rios is in her first season with the Ave Maria Gyrenes. Rios joins the program as an Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach while also serving as a member of the Assistant Strength and Conditioning staff. Bringing a strong background as both a collegiate player and exercise science professional, Rios adds valuable experience in player development, performance training, and mentorship to the Ave Maria athletic department.
A native of Greenbrier, Arkansas, Rios built an extensive playing career at the Division I level. She competed for five collegiate seasons as a center midfielder, beginning her career at Arkansas State University from 2021–2022 before transferring to the University of Central Arkansas, where she was a member of the Bears’ women’s soccer program from 2023–2025. Known for her work rate, game awareness, and consistency in the midfield, Rios developed into a reliable presence across multiple systems and coaching styles throughout her collegiate career.
Academically, Rios graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a degree in Exercise and Sport Science, equipping her with a strong foundation in human performance, injury prevention, and athletic development. Her academic background directly supports her dual role at Ave Maria, allowing her to integrate evidence-based strength and conditioning principles into her coaching approach and daily work with student-athletes.
Rios has gained hands-on coaching experience across multiple levels of the game. She has worked extensively in private coaching sessions, focusing on individual skill development, technical refinement, and confidence building. In addition, she has coached youth players with Maumelle Soccer Club, where she emphasized fundamentals, effort, and long-term athlete development. Her experience also includes serving as a Strength and Conditioning Intern at the University of Central Arkansas, where she assisted with program implementation, athlete monitoring, and performance-focused training sessions.
With a blend of competitive playing experience, academic preparation, and coaching versatility, Rios brings a faith-based, athlete-centered approach to Ave Maria University as she begins her collegiate coaching career.
