Russellville High School is proud to announce the hiring of Trent Milby as the new Athletic Director, effective for the 2026-27 academic year. A decorated leader with a championship pedigree in both the high school and collegiate ranks, Milby brings over two decades of experience in coaching, high-level administration, and student-athlete development to the program.
Milby joins Russellville High School following a transformative tenure at Berea College, where he has served as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach since 2013, amassing over 500 career wins. Critically, his administrative expertise was sharpened in his dual role as Assistant Athletic Director - Coordinator of Athletic Recruitment and Retention. In this capacity, Milby oversaw the strategic growth of the athletic department, ensuring student-athletes were not only successfully recruited but supported through to graduation.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome Coach Milby to the Russellville family," said Drew Teel, RHS Principal.
"Trent Milby is a distinguished leader who fundamentally understands that athletic excellence and academic integrity are mutually reinforcing. His extensive background as both a championship-winning coach and an Assistant Athletic Director provides him with a rare, comprehensive perspective on building a high-performing athletic culture. The hiring committee at RHS is confident that his vision and expertise will be a positive step for the athletic department, and we are excited for the next chapter of success for our student-athletes."
A Legacy of Excellence
Milby’s reputation was forged during his legendary stint at Marion County High School, where he amassed a 208-36 record. His 2012-13 campaign remains one of the greatest in prep history, featuring an undefeated 39-0 season, a state championship, and a #4 national ranking by USA Today. These achievements earned him the prestigious 2013 Naismith National Women’s Coach of the Year award.
Beyond the hardwood, Milby’s diverse administrative and coaching abilities is highlighted by:
*Administrative Leadership: As Assistant AD at Berea, he spearheaded initiatives that bolstered athlete enrollment and strengthened the department's internal infrastructure during its transition to NCAA Division III.
*National Success in Multiple Sports: He was named USA South Coach of the Year in his first season with the conference (2017-18). Coach Milby has also been named the USCAA National Golf Coach of the Year after leading Berea to a 4th-place national finish during his tenure as head golf coach (2016–2023).
Recruitment and Placement: As the co-founder of Kentucky Premier, a Nike-sponsored EYBL organization, he has facilitated college placements for over 250 athletes across NCAA and NAIA levels.
Educational Foundation: A career educator, Milby spent 14 years teaching in public schools. He holds a Master’s degree and Rank 1 certification from Western Kentucky University.
Looking Ahead
As Athletic Director, Milby will oversee all aspects of the Russellville High School and Middle School sports programs, with a specific focus on utilizing his background and experience in athletics will ensure student success in the classroom.
"I am honored to join the Russellville High School family," said Milby. “My goal is to foster an environment where our coaches have the resources to compete at the highest level and our students develop the character and discipline necessary to succeed long after they leave the field or court.”