Melis Ural

Class:
Freshman
Height:
5-6
Hometown:
Istanbul, Turkiye
Previous School:
Acibadem HS

Prep

Graduated from Acibadem Bilim Ve Doga Anadolu Lisesi
Competed for Vakifbank Sports Club, the top club volleyball team in the nation
Champion of Istanbul Super League Girls Volleyball Championship at U14, U16 and U18 levels
Competed in Turkish Women’s 1^st League
Member of Turkiye U20 National Team
Participated in Turkey’s U17 National Team Preparation Camp, U17 Balkan Championship Qualification Camp, U17 European Championship Camp, U17 World Championship Preparation Camp and U17 World Championship Camp
Champion or runner-up at numerous school, city and national championships

Personal

Daughter of Altan and Esra Ural
Father, Altan Ural, played soccer professionally and currently works as an amateur scout
Undecided on college major
Birthday is Feb. 21

Student-Athlete Q&A
What made Liberty University the right place for you to attend college/compete at the collegiate level?
One of the biggest reasons I chose Liberty University was its strong balance between academics and athletics. I wanted to attend a university where I could pursue excellence in both my education and my volleyball career without having to sacrifice one for the other. Another important reason was the university’s community. I was impressed by the way people not only support one another but also treat each other with respect, including in matters of faith. I believe this environment will help me grow not only as a student-athlete but also as a person, while shaping my character and helping me achieve my long term goals in life.

Is there something about your life and upbringing you would consider unique?
I do not necessarily consider this unique, because I believe it is something everyone should strive to do. I always try to help the people around me whenever I can, treat others with kindness, and maintain a positive attitude. I believe one of my greatest strengths is being warm, supportive, and approachable, and I hope to have a positive impact on the people around me wherever I go. I also set high standards for myself in both athletics and academics. I always strive to win every match I play and to maintain strong academic performance. Giving my best effort and continuously working to improve myself are values that guide me every day.

Who in your life inspires you and why are they such an inspiration?
My greatest goal is to always make my family proud and bring them happiness. Their support and encouragement have been the driving force behind everything I have achieved. One of the people who inspires me is Michael Jackson. I admire his dedication, work ethic, and the impact he made through his talent. In volleyball, I look up to Turkish libero Gizem Örge and Italian libero Monica De Gennaro. Their professionalism, consistency, and success at the highest level motivate me to continue improving and pursuing excellence in my own career.

What is your most memorable athletic moment/accomplishment?
Playing in championship finals and experiencing the feeling of winning them are among the most meaningful and unforgettable moments of my athletic career. Every final represents months of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice, making the moment of victory incredibly rewarding. It is a feeling of pride, accomplishment, and joy that is difficult to put into words. Being selected to attend the Turkey National Team camps is another experience I will always cherish. Representing my country and training alongside some of the nation’s best athletes has been a great honor and an unforgettable part of my journey.

If you picked your jersey/uniform number, why is that number important to you?
I chose the number 5 because it was the first jersey number I ever wore when I was a child.

Do you have any relatives who are playing or have played college or professional sports? (Names, relation to you, what/where they played)?
My older sister, Alara Sude Ural, was a youth volleyball player at Maltepe Yali Sports Club. She is no longer an active player. My father played football professionally in the past. He currently works as an amateur football scout.