11· Melissa Byrus Class: Senior Hometown: Ft. Myers, Fla. High School: Riverdale Position: Middle Blocker Major: Sports Medicine

howed great progress over the spring season…got stronger as last season went on…a great work ethic has allowed her to get the most of her abilities…expected to provide team leadership.

2000: Set career highs in every season statistical category, after seeing the most playing time in her career…led the team in total blocks (88), blocks per game (0.77) and blocking assists (81)…had seven total blocks in two matches against New Mexico State (10/6) and Florida Atlantic (10/31).

1999: Saw action in 36 games, with 33 kills and 26 digs.

1998: Averaged 0.39 blocks per game, playing in 42 games...recorded a career-high five kills and five digs against Marquette (9/11).

Prior to FIU: Played varsity volleyball, basketball and softball for four years at Riverdale High School...1997-98 MVP in volleyball...all-conference in softball four straight years and Co-Offensive Player-of-the-Year in 1997...named to All-Lee County teams in basketball all four years...awarded Proud Scholar Award, 1994-1998...treasurer of the National Honor Society and member of DARE Rolemodel Club...graduated with a 4.0 grade point average...participated in the Palm Coast Junior Club team under the direction of Tim Harris...born November 16, 1979...daughter of Bill and Diane Byrus.

Career Highs
Kills: 12 (Embry-Riddle 9/18/99)
Assists: 6 (Florida Atlantic, 9/12/00)
Service Aces: 4 (twice, last vs. Denver, 10/29/00)
Block Solos: 1 (eight times, last vs. New Mexico State, 11/16/00)
Block Assists: 7 (Florida Atlantic, 10/31/00)
Digs: 16 (twice, last vs. Arkansas State 11/5/00)