Football has the power to create enduring legacies, and for Justin Miller, the quarterback for Southern Utah University, that legacy extends far beyond the field. The influence of his father and the experience of becoming a father himself has shaped Justin's journey as a football player, molding him into the dedicated athlete and compassionate person he is today. In an exclusive interview, Justin opened up about the profound impact of his father's guidance, his own path to fatherhood, and the valuable lessons he hopes to pass on to his daughter.

A Passion Ignited

Justin's love for football ignited at a young age, recalling his early years Justin said, "My dad would always tell me the story of when I was a kid and the first thing we could play in a sports league was soccer. So, I played youth soccer for a year and then went over that same year to a high school football game at Irvine High School in California. And my dad always said that's when I just fell in love with it." From that moment on, he yearned to step onto the gridiron. With his father's unwavering support, Justin ventured into flag football, taking on opponents with passion and joy until he could finally don pads for youth tackle football. It was during those formative years that his football legacy began to take shape.

A Move to Utah

The Miller family's journey led them to Utah when Justin's father sought a fresh start. Leaving behind a successful career as a CPA in California, he embraced various jobs to support the family. This transition marked a pivotal point in Justin's football journey, as the move provided new opportunities and a chance for him to flourish in the sport.

Playing Under His Father's Guidance

One of the defining moments in Justin's football journey was the chance to play under his father's coaching. Growing up, Justin's father was always involved in his athletic endeavors, coaching baseball, football, basketball, and more. When the time came for high school football, his father joined the coaching staff at Summit Academy, initially as an analyst. Over time, he climbed the ranks, eventually becoming the defensive coordinator and later coaching the receivers.

Playing under his father's guidance presented its own set of challenges. Justin had to balance the roles of player and son, while his father had to find a way to fairly be the coach while also being the dad. "It made me a better man and a better player. There were definitely times when he got mad and we were doing up-downs or running around the field and you have some words in your head and with your teammates but it all ended up for the better and we were better for it", said Justin. The moments of discipline and tough love ultimately contributed to their growth and strengthened their bond.

The College Journey

After high school, Justin embarked on his college journey at Snow College, but his path took a turn when he decided to embark on a two-year mission. Despite the interruption, Justin's father remained a steadfast advocate, reaching out to college coaches across the nation to secure his son a spot on a team. Their relentless efforts paid off, and Justin found his way to Southern Utah University as a walk-on, determined to prove his mettle and establish himself as a leader within the quarterback room.

Although he initially joined as a walk-on without a scholarship, Justin's determination to be a difference-maker never wavered. He wanted to make his mark and contribute to the team's success. The opportunity to wear the jersey of Southern Utah University and showcase his skills as a quarterback was a dream come true.

Fatherhood and Football

Last fall, amidst his collegiate football career, Justin also embraced the life-altering experience of becoming a father himself. The timing posed challenges, with his daughter's due date initially coinciding with a crucial game week. However, fate intervened, aligning the bye week with the arrival of his daughter. Justin reflected on the surreal experience of becoming a father and its profound impact on his perspective, both on and off the field.

With the responsibilities of fatherhood demanding time and energy, Justin highlighted the importance of compartmentalization saying, "The biggest change is just making sure that I am keeping things separated. When I am working on football I have to be able to focus my attention on that 100%. I have to be present in what I am doing no matter what that is. When I am with my family and it is family time I need to not be thinking about football and be focused on my wife and our daughter. Which can be difficult but it has been cool to add another piece in there that makes our life more interesting." Whether he's studying game film or spending cherished moments with his daughter and wife, Justin recognizes the significance of giving undivided attention to the present moment.

Lessons for His Daughter

As a devoted father, Justin shared the lessons he wants to impart to his daughter as she navigates life's challenges. He emphasized the value of discipline, instilled in him through football, as a tool for success in all endeavors. Additionally, Justin emphasized the importance of loyalty, teaching his daughter to cherish and support those closest to her, just as he does with his family and the Thunderbird football program.

A Message to His Father

Justin expressed heartfelt gratitude and love for his father. He acknowledged the immense impact his father's guidance and support has been on his journey, both as a football player and as a person. Despite now possessing extensive football knowledge himself, Justin acknowledges that he continues to learn from his father, who this fall will join the Southern Utah staff as an analyst. With deep appreciation, he affirmed that his father's influence remains an integral part of his growth and success.

Today, as Justin prepares to step onto the field as a father himself, his perspective has evolved. He understands the responsibility of guiding and supporting the next generation, just as his father did for him. Football has taught him valuable life lessons and provided a platform to forge lasting relationships and unforgettable memories.

With every pass, every touchdown, and every step forward, Justin Miller continues to honor his passion for football, his family's unwavering support, and his own journey as a player and a father. As he paves the way for future generations, he exemplifies the true power of family in the game he loves.

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