Alexis Melnikov signed a national letter of intent to swim for the Fresno State Bulldogs next fall. The 17-year-old senior will accept a scholarship to swim on the NCAA Division I swim team beginning in the fall of 2010. Melnikov, a Rocklin High senior, is a highly-decorated swimmer who earned All American Consideration in the 200 freestyle relay at the CIF Sections last year. She served as captain of the Thunder swim team and was named Sportsperson of the Year twice at Rocklin High. Melnokov placed on the first team All Sierra Foothill League all three of her high school seasons. She has appeared in CIF Section competitions each year since her freshman year as well. Melnikov swims year round, and is a member of the California Capital Aquatics competitive team. She has competed in state competitions throughout her high school career and said she is excited to become a member of the Bulldogs swim team. “I love how important the sports are at Fresno,” Melnikov said. “Division I sports get lots of support from student body and the whole town.” Melnikov said she credits her coaches for her success. “Coach Debbie Walker has been my club coach for many years,” Melnikov said. “She and Adrienne Tacla, my high school coach, have really helped me develop in swimming and as a person.” Tacla, Thunder swim coach, said she was confident that Melnikov was a Division I swimmer. “I’m very proud of Alexis and this incredible opportunity,” Tacla said. “I know that she’s going to make the most of this. She is driven, disciplined and very intelligent.” Melnikov is the daughter of Paul and Kathy Melnikov of Rocklin. ~ Staff Report