MANHATTAN, Kan. Melissa Granberry has been appointed as an assistant coach for the Kansas State women’s rowing program in an announcement made Wednesday by head coach Patrick Sweeney.

Granberry replaces former assistant coach James Rawson and will be in charge of the novice program and conduct all recruiting for the Wildcats.

“We were looking for someone who could relate well to the type of women we are trying to bring to the program,” Sweeney said. “Melissa had a strong commitment and enthusiasm for the program as a former student-athlete at K-State, which will carry over nicely now as a member of our coaching staff. We hope that her knowledge of the university, program and local area will contribute to her success in recruiting many athletes from the state of Kansas.”

A 2004 graduate of K-State, Granberry earned her bachelor’s degree in graphic design. While an undergraduate student, she served as the head coach of the Kansas State Rowing Association Junior Women's Team. With just one year of Granberry at the helm, the team improved by leaps and bounds. The KSRA Juniors took home a higher finish in every race they had entered in 2003-04, compared to races in the previous year.

Granberry began her coaching career as the novice intern coach for the Kansas State women's rowing team in 2001-02. She was also an assistant coach for the 2002 Nike Rowing Camp held at K-State.

As an oarswoman at K-State, Granberry held a seat in the First Varsity 8+ every semester she was on the team from 1998-2001. Granberry served as captain for the 1999-00 and 2000-01 seasons.

Before coming to K-State, Granberry attended Washburn University for two years. While rowing with the Topeka Rowing Association, Granberry broke the indoor novice rowing record for 2,000 meters. She was a standout athlete during her four years at Palco High School, competing in basketball, volleyball and track.

Granberry and her husband, Jon, currently reside in Manhattan.