About Douglas Alan Miller
Doug Miller was born in Cheyenne, WY on October 29, 1969. In 1978 he and his family moved to Piedmont, SD where he attended Piedmont Elementary School through the 6th grade and then attended Sturgis Junior High and Sturgis High School where he graduated from in 1988.
It was evident early on that Doug would excel both as a student as was well on the field, court and track. During his years at SHS Doug broke the basketball scoring record, high jump, long jump, triple jump records and was standout football player. As a result Doug received college scholarship offers in track, basketball and football from several universities. Doug ultimately chose South Dakota State University where he continued his record setting ways playing football.
With the Jacks Doug was selected team co-captain, named team MVP, selected to the North Central Conference (NCC) 1st team, named NCC most valuable defensive lineman, Associated Press Little All American 1st team, Kodak All American Team, NCAA Division II All American Team, and selected to play in the Kelly Blue/Gray football game. He was twice named to the NCC All Academic Team.
In 1993 Doug was drafted into the NFL by the San Diego Chargers and in 1995 played in Super Bowl XXIX. His career was cut short by injury, but he continued as an assistant coach with the Jacks and University of California Berkley Bears where he was pursuing his second masters degree.
Doug’s life ended far too early as he was killed by a lightning strike in the mountains of Colorado in July of 1998. His family and friends started a foundation in his honor which continues today, giving back to youth programs in the Sturgis area. As part of the foundation the Douglas Alan Miller 5K run / walk will be held on May 19, 2012. Along with the 5K there will be three age categories of kids’ run as well as breakfast and drawings for prizes. All proceeds with benefit the Piedmont Elementary School.