Standing at 5-foot-7, Melissa Dickman started at center for the Jac-Cen-Del Lady Eagles and a lack of size underneath never deterred her from being a force to be reckoned with in the 1980’s. Such evidence can be found in the school record books as she remains ranked fourth and fifth respectively in single-season steals at 87 and 80 and is seventh all-time with career steals at 167. Her 354 rebounds in four years also ranks 16th on the career rebounding list.

 

A four-year letterwinner at the school, Melissa was a three-time All-Sectional selection, two-time All-ORVC and All-County pick and a member of the 1982 All-Regional squad, the same Jac-Cen-Del team that won the regional with victories over Seymour and Hauser before falling in the semi-state to Evansville Bosse. She was a rebounding, hustle and free throw award winner during her career and ended the 1983-1984 campaign as Team Captain and Team MVP while also being a member of the 40 & 8 All-Star Team. Her dedication, hard work and unselfishness alongside a passion towards rebounding and playing defense are fondly remembered as some of her greatest assets and those same assets allowed head coach Maurice Meyers and company to earn a championship status once again.

 

Melissa’s work ethic and dedication would later be seen in her 24-year career with the Batesville Community School Corporation where she would spend time as an educator, administrator and technology specialist. She graduated from Marian University in 1989 and along with her husband Joe have three children and also play the roles of grandma and grandpa. We celebrate the addition of another Lady Eagle and welcome Melissa into the Ripley County Basketball Hall of Fame.