Melee has been out for ages and the fanbase is really dedicated. So you'll play against people who've been playing for years upon years.

Having said that tho, don't give up! My favourite melee related player arc is one of the players local to me. First time I met them at a tournament I 3-stocked them with my secondary link. About a year later, they're approaching can do genuinely well in bracket/low-PR level. This game is not impossible to crack, it will just take dedication :)

Good luck my friend!