OSZ Influencer: Chris Miller, The First Academy

Chris Miller, the offensive line coach for The First Academy’s football team, attended TFA as a student. Now, in his professional career, Miller attempts to give back to the school that saw him grow every day — be it on the sports side or in every other area. Sports information coordinator Bo Burgess said of Miller, “He is an unbelievable asset to our school and football program.” Miller also is the “self proclaimed” deejay for any TFA athletic events.

What brought you to your school?
I attended The First Academy for 13 years as a student. As soon as I graduated college, I wanted to return to help coach football and give back to the place that gave me so much.

 What do you love most about your school?
First, I love that the Christian mission statement is something that is placed at the forefront of everything we do. Next would be the people. Some of the most influential people I have met in life have been at TFA. People care here, and that is shown daily.

 What is your motivation?
My motivation is to use the skills and tools that God has blessed me with to help inspire and encourage the next generations — whether that is through sports or life in general.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing lifelong relationships established. Nothing makes me happier than seeing kids come back from college and witnessing the great things they are doing. 

 What do you like to do in your spare time?
Most of my spare time is spent watching various TFA sporting events. I also enjoy hanging with friends.

 Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
My favorite teacher was my public-speaking teacher, Suzanne Livesay. She really helped me to feel comfortable speaking in front of large groups of people and even sparked an appreciation for musical theater, which I still have to this day. She was also the head of the drama department. The main reason is the continued support she gave me throughout my career in keeping track of my football career at FIU.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why? 
I wanted to be a historian for the History Channel specializing in U.S. military history. I have always loved history and learning how the events of the past shaped the future. I also wanted to be a singer. I am pretty much singing something 24/7.

 What is your favorite children’s book and why?
Probably “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” Most likely due to the fact that I love cookies and can still remember the pictures in the book.

 What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are playing pickleball and golf, fishing, and working out. I also enjoy ending the day with a book, usually something focused on historical events.

 If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Without a doubt, teleportation. The ability to get places instantly and not worry about things like traffic would be amazing.

 If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?
I would have to be Johnny Cash, Charlie Wilson and Craig Morgan. All these men have gone through tragedies and hardships, showing incredible determination and grit. Plus, they are responsible for some of the greatest songs in music history, in my opinion.

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?
I usually brought a lunch from home but would buy the pizza lunch every Friday. I would also put the Buffalo chicken tender wrap from the cafeteria up against any restaurant.

What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas is my favorite, for sure. I love all of the traditions and the time spent with friends and family.

 Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
I did not have one specific best friend but a group of seven or eight guys that I grew up with. Sports and school originally brought us together, and we are still as close today. We have a group chat that we text in frequently keeping up with each other.

 What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
Sports always took up most of my time growing up. I was a state champion in shot put my senior year of high school. The other thing would probably have to be reading. I read hundreds of books as a kid, whether sitting at home, in a car or at an event. I almost always had a book in my hand.