From star athlete (1962-1966) to Head Coach (1992-2005), Charlie Miller made his mark on West Virginia Wesleyan College. Along the way, he mentored many students and made many life-long friends.
As a player, he led WVWC to the WVIAC Basketball Tournament Championship in 1966 (and was voted the Most Valuable Player). In addition, he was a standout on the track and field team. His school record for the long jump stood for 23 years!
He was inducted into the WVWC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013.
As a coach, he continued his success. He served as the Assistant Basketball Coach alongside Head Coach, Gary Hess. Together they won two WVIAC Titles, one regular season championship, and coached one NAIA National Tournament Team.
When he later returned in 1992 as the Head Coach for WVWC Basketball, after serving in that capacity at Lake Forest College for many years, Charlie’s teams won another WVIAC title and the school’s first NCAA II playoff berth. Long-time friend Bob Skinner believes that to be one of the greatest coaching accomplishments in school history.
Having earned his MA in Education along the way, Charlie also mentored and coached quite a few students in the classroom during his years on the Wesleyan faculty.
This week, Charlie lost his battle with cancer. Social media posts were full of love and respect for this Wesleyan Giant, and many a tear was shed. His team members, students, and coaching friends are mourning his loss as are his faculty and staff colleagues.
I met Charlie Miller when he came to WVWC as assistant basketball coach. He and his wife, Lexie, and small son moved into Fleming residence hall as house parents. What a journey they had with WVWC. They mentored many along the way. So sad to hear of his passing.