Ryland H. Milner, model man of consistency and achievement in northwest Missouri, was elected in 1988 at age 79 after an outstanding career as an athlete and versatile coach.
At Northwest Missouri State University over six decades, 1929 to 1975, he achieved legendary status, beginning as a basketball guard. In 1931, he quarterbacked the undefeated Maryville football team and with unusual success coaching basketball and football as Jackson (MO) High School, he returned to his alma mater for a lenghty reign as a successful coach. As head football coach, Milner compiled a 90-63-13 record in 21 seasons. He also served as Maryville’s head coach in baseball, tennis, track, cross country and golf.