Melissa Perea

La Junta native Melissa Perea has been named the head coach for Otero Junior College’s softball program, replacing Jen Fisher who accepted the head softball coaching duties at Metropolitan State College of Denver.

Perea played for OJC under Fisher from 2001 to 2003, graduating as an Academic All-American for the Lady Rattlers. She continued her collegiate softball career at Colorado State University-Pueblo playing for the Thunderwolves. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management.

Perea returned to Otero Junior College in 2005 to serve as Fisher’s assistant coach for the 2005-06 season.

“I’m very excited with the opportunity to lead the softball program here at Otero, and grateful for the support and confidence of the administration and staff,” she said. “We have a great team and I’m looking forward to continuing the success of the softball program.”

Throughout high school Perea played for the La Junta High School Lady Tiger Softball Team where she started at first base. She helped guide the Lady Tigers to a State Runner-up title in 1998, State Championship title in 1999, and another State Runner-up title in 2000. In winning state in 1999, the softball program became the first girls’ team sport at LJHS to win a state championship. Perea earned 1^st Team All-Conference selections in ‘98, ‘99, and ‘00 and 1^st Team All-State in ‘99. She was also selected to play in the Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports Association All-State Game, as well as the CHSAA All-State Game. Perea also earned varsity letters in basketball and tennis. She was an active member of the National Honor Society and graduated with honors from La Junta High School in 2001.