Ruth Ann Meyer (2000) - Hall of Fame

Ruth Ann Meyer

Induction:
2000
Class:
1958

When an athlete loves a game, it can turn into a lifestyle. Just being around the game gives them the same satisfaction as playing. Dr. Ruth Ann Meyer has adopted this lifestyle and made her self known in the field.

The 1958 physical education graduate from the University of Northern Iowa made a living around athletics, health and physical education.

Upon receiving her degree, Meyer took a position at Newton (Iowa) High School as the girl's physical education teacher, advisor of GRA, boy's tennis coach and cheerleading coach. In 1964, Meyer received her master's degree from Northern Colorado. She went on to become an assistant professor in the department of physical education at Wartburg College.

In 1965, she decided to join the Western Michigan University staff as the women's volleyball coach and women's recreation association advisor. As volleyball coach Meyer compiled 115-82 career mark in 10 seasons. She twice saw her teams go undefeated Ð in 1965 and 1967. Her knowledge of the physical education program and athletics in general helped to make her become the first women's assistant athletic eirector at Western Michigan and department chair of women's physical education. Meyer went back to school to the University of Iowa to complete her Ph.D. in Physical Education in 1984.

Throughout her career, Meyer established herself in the athletic community. She has served on numerous organizations. She served as President of the Iowa and Michigan AAHPERD, and was presented the Honor Award for Outstanding Service. As a member of the United States Field Hockey Association, she is considered a National Umpire, along with serving on the umpiring committee and co-director of the Field Hockey Festival. She found herself on the Western Michigan Board of Officials and President of the Midwest Association and University Physical Education. She retired in January 1998 from Western Michigan.