When Rich Miano first set foot on the islands in the late 1970s, he was a teenager chasing a new life in Hawaii. At Kaiser High School he quickly became a standout athlete, drawing attention for his speed and tenacity on the football field.
Rising Through the Ranks
Walking on at the University of Hawaii was just the beginning of Miano’s football story. Despite not receiving a scholarship initially, his relentless work ethic earned him a place on the roster and soon translated into impressive performances that caught the eye of NFL scouts.
The 1985 NFL Draft saw the New York Jets select Miano, marking the start of an 11‑year professional career. Over the course of more than a decade he became a reliable presence on the Jets’ defense, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
A Return to His Roots
After hanging up his cleats, Miano stepped back onto the University of Hawaii campus, this time as an assistant coach under June Jones. Together they guided the program through some of its most successful seasons, laying the groundwork for future triumphs.
Today, Miano channels his experience into shaping the next generation of Hawaiian athletes. He runs speed and quickness camps, collaborates with the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame, and mentors young players who dream of following a similar path from the islands to the NFL.
Reflecting on his journey, Miano speaks of the challenges of adapting to life in Hawaii, the lessons learned on and off the field, and the importance of giving back to the community that helped define his career.