Bob Jones volleyball player signs with Birmingham–Southern

Melaina Hissam signs scholarship papers on April 2 to attend Birmingham–Southern and play for the Panthers. She is joined by her father, Andy, and mother, Deborah. (Record Photo/Nick Sellers)

By Nick Sellers | Staff Writer

MADISON – Proclaiming her the “libero queen,” Bob Jones principal Robby Parker gave Melaina Hissam a short introduction before the senior volleyball player signed the scholarship papers that officially sent her to Birmingham–Southern College to continue her athletic career.

Libero refers to the position Hissam played for Bob Jones as a three-year starter. It is a defensive position, and libero players are often responsible for digs, the term for keeping the ball above the court after the other team has spiked it.

Hissam’s stellar play at the unique position earned her the attention of Birmingham–Southern, who extended an offer.

“I wasn’t sure where I was going to go to school, but I just knew God was going to figure it out and let me know,” Hissam said.

Over her career, Hissam played 333 sets for the Patriots with an average of 2.6 digs per set. She also has 874 digs and 79 aces to her credit.

Hissam’s athletic accomplishments are also bolstered by her academic credentials, which include a 4.9 grade point average and an ACT score of 32.

“She’s one of the players that you’ll never forget,” Bob Jones coach April Marsh said.

Hissam gave ample credit to her parents, Andy and Deborah, her coaches and teammates at Bob Jones and her club team coaches throughout the years.

“My time at Bob Jones has been great,” Hissam said.

Hissam also received second-team All-State honors her senior season. She was a part of Bob Jones’ Class 6A championship season in 2013.