Tarleton State University Athletics

Ja'Voni Melidor played the last three seasons at Benedict College, an NCAA Division II program that plays in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Last season he was First Team All-Conference after recording a tied-team high four interceptions, the tied-second most pass breakups (four), a fumble recovery, a forced fumble, and 33 tackles (30 solo) in 12 games. He had a two-pick day against Edward Waters on Sept. 9. Across his three seasons, he played in 29 games, recording five interceptions, and helped the Tigers win two conference championships.
 
“He’s a highly decorated corner, a really talented guy, a good cover man," said head coach Todd Whitten. "We’ve lost Jalen Carr to graduation, so we’re going to need to add some corners who can step in and play right away. He’s a 1-for-1 guy, heavily recruited, he was offered by us, Stephen F. Austin, Louisiana Tech, Jacksonville State, Ohio -- he's one of the most highly recruited guys who we’ve ever signed here at Tarleton. He was quite a get, I think, for us and will be impactful right away.”
 
Melidor is originally from Columbia, South Carolina, where he played his prep career at Irmo High School. He will pursue a degree in sports management at Tarleton State University.