Interview and Story by Emma Breer

Many times we find ourselves in such predictable situations, such predictable decisions. Oftentimes, when looking at coaches with the most experience, especially in their organization, it’s natural to assume that they’ll choose to coach older athletes. Not Mike Miller. Coach Miller, who has been with the Texas Glory Fastpitch organization since 2008, chose to stay with the younger age group when the decision was given to him.

He started coaching because of his daughter and followed up through each age group with her. After she graduated, Miller continued to coach simply because he absolutely loved it. He claims that it’s always been a great experience. “It’s just been fun,” He said.

When his daughter graduated, Miller was affiliated with the 18u team. He was eventually asked to help with the 16u team, but he felt his skills as a coach were directed elsewhere. He “always preferred coaching younger kids because there’s more focus on fundamentals versus recruiting,” and he thought that was where his abilities were best suited. Miller was also drawn to coaching younger teams because he felt he could provide something the Glory organization needed. Not only did he prefer to teach fundamentals, but he also wanted to provide a non-parent coach at the younger ages.

Kevin Shelton, the founder of the Texas Glory Fastpitch organization, says that Miller has become a leader in that area and really helps in getting players “ready for the grind of the older age groups.” Shelton also says Miller is great for this age because he doesn’t think he has everything figured out. He has a thirst for knowledge, is curious about how to improve what he does, and wants to hone in on being the best coach he can be. Miller knows “exactly what they want kids to learn” so they’re ready when they’re older. Miller finds coaching great. He did while he was coaching his daughter and he still does now. “I love seeing these kids move through younger years,” Miller says.

Miller says he is a fan of the Alliance. He’s seen a lot of evolutions of different national championships, but in the Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series, “everybody (has) to compete and qualify.”

It’s easy to decide to coach players who have been polished in fundamentals and have played with the highest competition in the country for several years. Miller had that option available to him after coaching in the organization for several years. By choosing to coach younger players, he not only embraced his preference but also provided something to the organization they needed. It wasn’t a predictable decision for those who didn’t know him, but Mike Miller has provided positive things for the softball world and has been important for what the Texas Glory organization does.