A graduate of nearby Germantown High School, Bo was feared for his speed and first touch. He was so dominant that at age 16, he was even offered an amateur contract with the Memphis Rogues of the North American Soccer League. Melson was also in the mix to represent his country, competing for the U.S. in 1978-79 in preparation for the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow (which the USA eventually boycotted).
Strong on the ball and big on heart, Bo chose to ply his collegiate trade at his home Memphis State University (now University of Memphis). He tallied 10 goals and 8 assists in just 20 games before a professional career was too good of a choice to turn down. Melson signed with the Memphis Americans of the Major Indoor Soccer League, making him the first African-American in Memphis to play pro soccer. Bo would stay with the Americans until they relocated to Las Vegas, then he signed with the Kalamazoo Kangaroos. Melson recorded 7 goals and 8 assists in his professional career.
Bo is happily married to his wife, Debra. He has three daughters (Shante, Teoshi, & Kailah) and one son (Donnell). When he's not working or enjoying his family, Melson gives back to Memphis & his birth home of Atlanta through Soccer in the Streets and other grassroots programs.
