All outstanding athletic programs can trace their beginnings to key individuals who provided the leadership and dedication needed for success. Former Pioneers and Flying Queens basketball coach and athletic director Harley J. Redin fills that role at Wayland Baptist University.

The former World War II bomber pilot coached the Pioneers from 1948-57, compiling a 171-97 record and three national tournament appearances. In 1955, Redin took on the added duty of coaching Wayland’s women’s team, beginning what would be a truly remarkable career.

In 18 years, Redin’s Flying Queens won more games than any women’s team in collegiate history, posting a record of 431-66 and winning six Amateur Athletic Union national championships, finishing second seven times, third three times, and fifth once. Redin’s teams won the first 76 games he coached, completing WBU’s collegiate record 131-game win streak.

During Redin’s career, 36 Wayland athletes combined to win 65 All-America recognitions and 32 girls were selected to participate on U.S. national teams in international competition.

A member of the Texas Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame and nominee for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Redin was the 1992 recipient of the Josten’s Service Award, given by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association for lifetime service to the sport. He is also a member of the board of directors of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Jackson, Tenn., and, at the time of his induction in 1992, is still an avid supporter of the Flying Queens and Pioneers. He has been a finalist numerous times for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.