Joe Gaiter: What does football mean to you?
Mike Miller: More than words can really describe. Football is an outlet from the rest of the world, but it’s also more than just a game. It’s helped me develop and grow as a man and a competitor.
Joe Gaiter: Where did you grow up and how was your childhood?
Mike Miller: I grew up in Stone Mountain, Ga. I was raised by both parents with 2 older sisters and a younger brother. My childhood focus was pretty much school and then sports. My parents made sure that I took care of my priorities before doing anything else.
Joe Gaiter: What are your fondest memories about Arabia Mountain High school?
Mike Miller: Being with my brothers. I built bonds with some guys on that team and throughout high school that I know will be around for the rest of my life.
Joe Gaiter: Tell us about your recruitment experience and why did you choose West Georgia.
Mike Miller: Coming out of high school I only had 2 real options for school and that was Catawba and Morehouse. I chose Catawba at the time because they really felt like family and I wanted to get away from home for school. After my sophomore season at Catawba I wanted to come back to Georgia and be closer to home and play a better level of football. West Georgia came off of their 10-2 season and was looking for some help on the defensive side so I figured this would be a perfect home for me.
Joe Gaiter: UWG was 6-5 last season. What do you think your team can improve on?
Mike Miller: Providing more energy this year. I feel like last year we were a little lax for reasons, but we’ve brought in a new DC and he’s fired up and filled with positive energy and I believe that he’ll play a big part in getting West Georgia back to the reputable status that it’s known for.
Joe Gaiter: How have you faced adversity this year?
Mike Miller: For me it was not being on the field as much as I’m used to this past year. As upsetting as it was it pushed me to get better and take advantage of the time that I did get out there.
Joe Gaiter: What makes you such a great Safety?
Mike Miller: The experience and feel that I have for the game. I played Wide Receiver for most of my football career (before college) so I understand how offenses work scheme wise. My passion and love for the game drives me to go out there every play and not only execute whatever needs to be done, but have fun and enjoy the game for what it is as well.
Joe Gaiter: What is your relationship like with Head Coach David Dean and the coaching staff?
Mike Miller: I love Coach Dean because he’s a players coach. He really cares about all of his athletes and has our best interest at heart. The coaching staff is full of great guys who love the game and love their job.
Joe Gaiter: How would you describe your leadership style on the field and in the locker room?
Mike Miller: Passionate and energetic!! I’m bringing energy 24/7, up by 40 or down by 60. I want to see my brothers succeed as bad as I want to.
Joe Gaiter: As you go into your senior season, what can we expect out of you?
Mike Miller: Just make sure you’re there to watch.
Joe Gaiter: Where are you working out during the off-season?
Mike Miller: Anywhere I can honestly. I’ve worked out outside of my apartment with a couple dumbbells and a jump rope. I’ve been with a few different trainers and I’ve been running around Ra-Lin Stadium using whatever resources are available to me.
Joe Gaiter: Reading articles about your highschool football career, you were called a “Sleeper”. Do you think people still sleep on you as an athlete and your athleticism?
Mike Miller: Most definitely and honestly I have no problem with that. I know, as well as my coaches and teammates, what I’m capable of. Other people doubting me will only give them a reason to test me and when they do, that’s when they’ll wake up.
Joe Gaiter: What is your untold story?
Mike Miller: When I was 16 I got into a major car accident where I passed out behind the wheel and crossed over a median and hit someone head on. This was on my dad’s birthday while I was driving his car. Luckily I was alone and no one got seriously injured but I’m extremely blessed to still be alive after the accident.
Joe Gaiter: What has been your motivation?
Mike Miller: The fact that I’ve been slept on all my life and through every doubt I’ve prevailed. Throughout the years I’ve grown and improved my game and as I’ve gotten better it has me determined to find my full potential.
Joe Gaiter: What is your major and how do you plan on using it?
Mike Miller: I’m an Accounting major and I plan on doing a 5th year management option. My family has a real estate business and I plan on being able to handle the books and hopefully taking over the business myself.
Joe Gaiter: Do you think you have reached your athletic peak?
Mike Miller: Nowhere near it honestly. The more I continue to learn the better I get. I feel like the sky’s the limit when it comes to my potential.
Joe Gaiter: What do you want your legacy to be?
Mike Miller: I want people to remember me as someone who really loved playing the game of football and was passionate about being a better person.
Joe Gaiter: Who are some athletes we should keep on our radar?
Mike Miller: Vante Matthews will be a big name coming up. He redshirted last year and he’s like a little brother to me. He has a ton of potential and his college career will be exciting to follow.
Joe Gaiter: Final Words?
Mike Miller: Make sure y’all come out and support this year. I believe we’ve got big things coming!
Joe Gaiter: Shout outs?
Mike Miller: S/O to God for always watching over me and Free Josh!! #JC6
IG and Twitter – @kxngmike
