Melanie Salata Fitch is the CEO of Irrelevant Week, a unique NFL tradition that celebrates the last player drafted—affectionately known as “Mr. Irrelevant.” Melanie has been involved with Irrelevant Week since 1984, following in the footsteps of her father, Paul Salata, the founder of the Orange County Youth Sports Foundation (OCYSF) and Irrelevant Week. As the longest active female participant in the NFL for over 49 years, Melanie has become a key figure in promoting sportsmanship and recognition for all athletes, regardless of draft position.

A Newport Beach resident, Melanie graduated from Corona del Mar High School and earned her graduate teaching credential from USC, where she participated in various sports. Her lifelong love of sports includes swimming, tennis, water polo, racquetball, surfing, sailing, and cross-country bicycling. Through sports, Melanie has built lifelong friendships, stayed fit, and learned valuable life lessons in competition, teamwork, and perseverance—skills that have carried over into her professional life.

Melanie has been an integral part of OCYSF since its inception, joining the board in 2021. As a board member, she is dedicated to raising funds and providing scholarships for youth to improve their life experiences through sports. She serves as Vice President and is a member of the Banquet Committee.

Melanie’s contributions to the community have been widely recognized. She has received several volunteer awards, including the USC Alumni Award, SPIN, National Charity League, and Goodwill. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Melanie is an avid cyclist and has completed a cross-country bicycle ride across the United States.

She resides in Newport Beach with her husband and two daughters, continuing her family’s legacy of supporting youth and celebrating the importance of sports.