M.A., University of North Carolina at Asheville

B.A., University of Phoenix

Teaching: Algebra II/Trig, Algebra III, Pre-Calculus

Coaching:Girls Varsity Volleyball, Boys JV Basketball

434-823-4805 x244

rmelis@millerschool.org

Ralf joined the Miller School of Albemarle team in August of 2011. He started his teaching career in 2001 in Arizona and has also taught in Botetourt County and Bedford County in Virginia. Ralf was born and raised in the Netherlands and attended UNC-Asheville on a basketball scholarship. During his junior year he was recognized for his achievements on the court and in the classroom and was selected as a Third Team Academic All-American at the division I level. After graduating from UNC-Asheville, Ralf played basketball professionally in Europe for 5 years in Belgium, Portugal, and the Netherlands. During this time Ralf also had the privilege to represent his home country on the National Team.

After ending his professional basketball career, Ralf and his wife Kristi settled in Mesa, Arizona. While working at a small charter school Ralf earned his master's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Phoenix. With the birth of their daughter Jordan it became important to be close to grandparents and the family moved to Bedford to be near Kristi's parents. Ralf was reintroduced to volleyball in Bedford and he fell in love with the simplicity of this awesome game. Currently Ralf coaches the volleyball team at MSA and when possible tries to play in adult leagues himself.

The whole family enjoys living on campus and being a part of the Miller School community. During the school year they can be found on many of the trails around campus walking their dog Zara and enjoying the amazing surroundings of campus. The Melis family also enjoys camping and traveling. Most of their summers are either spent in their travel trailer visiting state parks and national parks or visiting family and friends in the Netherlands.