Al Miller was recognized last Thursday evening, May 10th, as a "Legend in the Field" of Strength and Conditioning by the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches association (CSCCa). His award was presented by CSCCa President, Rob Oviatt, head strength and conditioning coach at Washington State University. This honor was bestowed in recognition of Al's pioneering efforts on behalf of the strength and conditioning profession.
Al began his career as a full-time strength and conditioning coach at Mississippi State University in 1980. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Northeast Louisiana University, and then to the University of Alabama in 1982 as a strength coach under legendary head football coach Paul "Bear" Bryant. Three years later, he took his first NFL job with the Denver Broncos. During his eight-year stint, the Broncos participated in four AFC Championship games, three Super Bowls, and one Pro Bowl. At this point, he took a position with the New York Giants for four years, followed by a position with the Atlanta Falcons. He worked with the Falcons for nine seasons, during which the team participated in two NFC Championship games, one Super Bowl, and one Pro Bowl. He retired in March of 2006 after completing 21 NFL seasons.
During Coach Miller's outstanding career, he received the following awards:
Four individuals were honored as "Legends in the Field" of Strength and Conditioning at the 2007 CSCCa National Conference: Al Miller, Al Vermeil, Meg Ritchie-Stone, and Boyd Epley. These four individuals have had a tremendous impact on the development of the strength and conditioning profession. The profession as it is known today is a direct result of the hard work, dedication, knowledge, and expertise of these legends. They are true pioneers, who blazed a trail through unknown and uncharted territory and helped develop a profession that has become an integral part of successful athletic programs across the country. The pioneering and mentoring efforts of these individuals make them true "Legends in the Field."
