Faculty Spotlight: Melissa Drish

We are excited to spotlight Coach Melissa Drish, the Dean of the Sports Science and Management Academy (SSMA) and Associate Athletic Director at The Weber School. Senior Romy Ress shares, “Coach Drish brings out the best in all of us. Whether it’s in the classroom or on the field, she’s always there with the right advice and encouragement to help us succeed. She truly cares about our growth as students and as athletes.”

In her dual-role position, Coach Drish plays a vital role in overseeing both the academic and operational aspects of the SSMA while also supporting the athletic department. Under her leadership, the SSMA has provided students with hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between sports science theory and real-world application. Students in the Foundations of Sports Medicine course have explored cutting-edge technology at the Emory Sports Performance and Research Center (SPARC), delving into 3D body mapping, brainwave monitors, and virtual reality systems used for injury prevention and rehabilitation. Students from the Sports Management & Entertainment class visited the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl offices, where they gained insights into the complexities of managing large-scale sporting events, including marketing, media, and team operations.

With the enhanced resources available in the new Eitan Force Athletic Complex, Coach Drish can further broaden the opportunities for students to engage in even more immersive and hands-on experiences. In addition to her roles in the SSMA and athletic department, Coach Drish also serves as the Varsity Boys Soccer coach, where her commitment to developing well-rounded athletes is evident. Whether strategizing for a big game or mentoring students in their academic pursuits, Coach Drish consistently fosters a culture of growth, teamwork, and resilience.