Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names:  Carrie Miller, Paul Miller

Siblings: Anna Miller, Aaron Miller, Molly Miller, Miles Miller, Allie Miller, Maggie Miller

Position or events: Tennis- 2 singles, Cross country- 5k, Swim- 100 backstroke, 200 breaststroke, Track- 1 mile, 2 mile, 4x800

Career Highlight: Tennis- Winning sectionals as a team sophomore year and making it to State.

At what age did you start playing your main sport?

Tennis at age four.

Who introduced you to the sport?

My dad — he has always been my coach for the past 13 years.

Has this always been your favorite sport?

Yes! I’ve ran almost as long as I’ve played tennis, but I’ve always loved tennis the most.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?

Freshman year I had significantly less work to do and time management was not really a big factor at all. Now, I am in much harder classes and I’ve had to figure out what works for me. This year, I have CC practice right after school and tennis practice later at night, so I really have to focus during the school day on using my time effectively, and this has worked really well for me this year.

What is your favorite part about this sport?

My favorite part about tennis is how mental the sport is. It’s so interesting to see the difference in how I play when I’m stressed or unfocused compared to ready and determined. I really love playing positively and trying to help others do the same.

What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?

My dad is definitely the main reason why I’ve played tennis so long, because I always have someone really good to play with. He is an amazing coach for me, and I think it’s really hard to have a parent who can effectively coach their kid, but he can, and he makes me love the sport so much. I also think that after comparing CC to tennis, the sport itself is definitely more enjoyable!! This makes me appreciate tennis so much more and I love the team aspect that you can create in the sport.

Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, who?

I look up to runner Sydney McLaughlin a lot because she is continually grateful for every opportunity, medal and place that she gets. She has such good sportsmanship despite being one of the top runners in the world and I really admire that. 

What would you say is your biggest asset on the court?

My biggest asset on the court is being able to reset my head mentally and stay positive even if points don’t go my way.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?

My most memorable experience was going to the Griak cross country meet at the University of Minnesota campus. It was a massive race and such a fun trip with the team!

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

It is super interesting to look back at how I’ve grown. I definitely have learned how to be a leader anywhere and I’ve learned the importance of balance in my life. I’ve gotten much more confident and outgoing since freshman year, too.

Do you have any pre-match rituals/routines/superstitions?

Before every cross country meet, myself and my other teammates always do the same thing with our hair and listen to the same music.

Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big match/game/meet, outside of regular practices?

I always try to get to bed early, drink a lot of water, and think positively throughout the day about the competition.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to? 

My sister Anna who is my best friend on every team I’m on!

Any hobbies outside of sports?

I enjoy reading and being with my family.

Favorite song?

My favorite song is “Upside Down,” by Jack Johnson.

Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade or water?

For CC, I can’t handle anything but water, but Vitamin Water works really well for me in tennis!

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I am undecided on the college I plan on attending but I plan on majoring in radiation therapy and playing tennis wherever I go!