Bristol, Tenn.– King University Athletics has added a new leader to its communications and creative team with the appointment of Austin Melius. A graduate of Commonwealth University with both a Bachelor's (2024) and Master's (2025) in Sport Management, Melius brings a strong background in sport marketing, communications, and creative production.
Melius has extensive experience working in athletics, including his role with the Lock Haven Athletic Strategic Communications Office, where he assisted with game day productions, live streams, photography, statistics, and social media across 22 sports. He also served as State Editor for MileSplit Pennsylvania (FloSports), producing 7–12 articles weekly, covering meets, interviewing athletes, and running live streams.
His resume also includes time as a Retail Supervisor and Ambassador at Cooperstown Dreams Park, where he managed staff and contributed as a photographer, and as a Graduate Assistant at Commonwealth University, coordinating trips to major sport business conferences and NCAA events.
Awards and accolades highlight his dedication, including being named Student Worker of the Year (2023–24), serving as Vice President of the Sport Management Club, and earning recognition as a three-time PSAC Scholar Athlete while competing in cross country and track and field.
Melius shared his excitement about joining King Athletics:
"I am excited to start at King University and help create one of the best Sports Information Departments in the country. This place is special to so many people, and I am ready to assist in sharing all of these stories."
Chris Valdez, Assistant Athletic Director for Athletic Communications and External Affairs, expressed his enthusiasm for the hire:
"I am proud and excited to welcome Austin to our team. His past experiences and proven creativity will elevate our production and move King Athletics in the direction that truly reflects what it means to be part of King."
The Tornado look forward to the creativity, leadership, and vision Melius will bring to the department as he begins his role in Bristol.
