Feature /// Melinda Wrye-Washington, Stephens College
That mountain of success all started at Eldon High School. While grow- ing up on her grandparents’ farm, it didn’t take long for Wrye-Washington to make her way into athletics–even if it meant carving her own path. “I began sports in Eldon playing city tee-ball, which then turned into
Wrye-Washington Looks to Add to Lifetime of Accomplishments at Stephens College
Story By: Grace Gilles
As a player, coach and administrator, Wrye-Washington has ex- celled in every facet of sport. Between securing multiple national titles, developing the winningest volleyball program in the NAIA, and being inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, the Eldon na- tive has put together quite a resume.
48 /// January 2025
From an early age, it was clear that Wrye-Washington was not afraid to break down any barriers that stood in her way. “Through elementary school it was common knowledge that ‘Me- linda got sent with the boys’ class in PE,’ and I organized the games on the playground at recess,” Wrye-Washington said. “I didn’t play with the girls’ teams again until sixth grade when I was convinced by my middle school P.E. teacher to go to fall volleyball tryouts.” It was this determination that fueled Wrye-Washington’s career as a three-sport athlete for the Mustangs, starring on the basketball, vol- leyball and track teams. During her time at Eldon, Wrye-Washington was surrounded by countless mentors, including Missouri Sports Hall - sorbed her leaders’ lessons like a sponge–all of their critical teachings playing an instrumental part in molding and shaping her. “Mustang sports were always strong and proud,” Wrye-Washing- ton said. “My teammates were awesome, and many went on to par- ticipate in college athletics.” The Eldon native recalled fond memories of conference championships, competing at the state tournament and heated rivalry games with Osage. But perhaps nowhere was her grit and sheer love of the game better displayed than during sectional play on the volleyball court. to play in a sectional game at Warrensburg in volleyball and eventu- ally advance to state,” Wrye-Washington said. To no one’s surprise, Wrye-Washington’s tough resolve and ath- leticism soon caught the eye of collegiate coaches. In 1990, she traded in her Mustang jersey to become a Tiger–earning a spot on the University of Missouri volleyball team. Throughout her decorated career at Mizzou, Wrye-Washington was taken under the wing of assistant coach Wayne Kreklow, who went on to become a volleyball coaching legend in his own right. Their bond was so strong, Wrye-Washington followed Kreklow for her senior season–transferring to Columbia College when he made the move to coach with his wife, Susan, just down the street in 1994. Wrye-Washington’s impact was immediately felt on the court
Team All-American in the process. However, her greatest success at Columbia College was arguably found on the sidelines.
“I had a call one day from Susan Kreklow while working on my Master’s
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