Alphonse Ruffner

Ruffner award group photo.

Athlete/Contributor

Inducted April 18, 2024

  • Spent five decades as a Michigan High School Athletic Association track and cross country official, working local, regional and state championships. 
  • NCAA indoor and outdoor track official since 1998. 
  • Coached at Kennedy High School (1990-92).
  • Individual coaching advisor.
  • Directed the City of Taylor’s Summer Track Program from 1975-90.
  • Coordinated the Taylor School District’s Junior High Winter Volleyball and Basketball Program (1989-92).
  • Coordinated the City of Taylor’s summer playground program (1985-88).
  • Wyandotte Hall of Fame member.
  • Five-time All-State runner in track and cross country at Roosevelt High School.
  • Won the state’s inaugural two-mile state title in 1967.
  • Key member of a three-time regional cross country team.
  • Has held the Roosevelt two-mile record for almost 60 years. 
  • Four-year letter-winner in track and cross country at Eastern Michigan University.
  • A member of national championship cross country teams in ‘69 and ’70. 
  • First EMU runner to earn three All-American honors in the steeplechase.
  • Was the Michigan Amateur Athletic Union’s Distance Runner of the Year in 1975-76.