For college athletes and coaches, losing is never a good feeling. But last week, this school and its athletes lost something much more important than a game. Athletic Director Butch Miller decided to step down, citing personal health and family issues as the reasons. Miller has been on sick leave for much of the semester, but his legacy will never be forgotten on this campus.

As you walk around the north side of campus, you see much of what Miller did to improve Maverick athletics. Walker Field and El Pomar Natatorium are two beautiful facilities that are home to successful teams and were built under Miller’s watch. Elliot Tennis Center underwent a massive makeover to house tennis teams that send players to Nationals yearly. But, despite how nice that is for our athletes, it brings in many other teams and players from all over the country. The facilities host numerous tournaments and events each year, which means an economic boost for the school and community.

The facilities built under Miller’s helm made it possible for the school to start 11 new varsity teams. One of the more recent additions include both men’s and women’s lacrosse (the men have already brought home a conferece championship). Athletes and coaches want to come to CMU because of Miller.

It was Miller’s attitude that made him a winner. He loved his players and coaches. Most ADs sit in private boxes to watch their teams play, but not Miller. Whether it was on the sideline at Stocker Stadium or front row at Brownson Arena, Miller was right there to support his boys and girls. And if a ref or official made a mistake, Miller would be the one to talk to them to help them out or just ask what they saw. That attitude won over the athletes, who loved playing for him.

We hope that Miller has a very speedy recovery. For someone who has given so much to the school, Miller is a man who can beat the toughest of conditions.