Maritza Melendez joined the NJIT men’s volleyball coaching staff in September 2024 as an assistant coach, bringing a diverse and accomplished background in volleyball leadership, player development, and program building. In addition to her collegiate coaching role, Melendez is the owner and director of Train Up Sports Volleyball Academy, where she has worked extensively with athletes across multiple competitive levels, emphasizing technical growth, discipline, and long-term development. Her experience as both a head coach and program director has positioned her as a respected figure within the regional volleyball community.
Prior to NJIT, Melendez served as the head coach of the Ramapo College men’s volleyball team during the 2023 season, leading the program to a 20–12 overall record and a berth in the Skyline Conference championship match for the first time since 2016. Her coaching résumé also includes head coaching positions with the West Milford Boys’ Volleyball team in 2022 and the Hawthorne Christian Girls’ Volleyball program from 2012 to 2014. Earlier in her career, she coached at Puerto Rican Christian from 2005 to 2006 and served as an assistant coach at St. Peter’s College from 2004 to 2005. As a player, Melendez represented Puerto Rico internationally from 2006 to 2010, competing at an elite level. She holds an FIVB Level 1 coaching certification and brings a unique background of service as a retired Marine and police officer, currently serving as a firefighter, which underscores her commitment to leadership, discipline, and community service.
