In 2008 six of Miller’s players hit the NFL—Sam Baker, Beau Bell, Chris Chester, DeShaun Foster, Matt McCoy, and Frostee Rucker. Three still play on Sundays. Players and wrestlers influenced by Miller, some now in their forties, talk candidly about following Miller’s philosophy, and the importance of passing it on.

Miller learned tenacity from his dad, his mentors, and his Uncle Joe who told him about the courage of his ancestors who fled genocide in Poland. Their stories taught Miller to stand up for what is right and to never quit.

The author, Kim G. Robinson, and Coach Miller met in the Tustin High School cafeteria. Over nine years, Miller unknowingly inspired Kim with stories about his Jewish upbringing and life in general, rather than with thoughts about upcoming football games. Through Miller, Kim discovered the magic behind transforming any underdog into a top dog through old-school philosophy.