NEWS

Community honors beloved coach in fight against cancer

Jeff Barron
Gannett Ohio

CARROLL – Bloom-Carroll assistant softball coach Wendell Miller said it takes a lot to make him speechless. But Monday's pre-game festivities before the game against Hamilton Township did just that.

"This community is just amazing," Miller said through tears. "I can't hardly talk. I'm dumbfounded. It's very heartwarming."

Miller, 73, is fighting stage 4 inoperable esophageal cancer. The Bulldog players decided to dedicate the game to him, calling the night, "Win it for Wendell." Players from both teams wore shirts commemorating Miller and various fundraising activities raised money for the OhioHealth Foundation. Miller is getting his cancer treatment at Riverside Hospital in Columbus.

Miller has been a Bulldog assistant for 16 years and said this season has been fun, despite his cancer diagnosis.

"Yes, it has," he said. "I love dealing with the kids. I thought about quitting, then I thought, 'You know, I'm going to stick it out as long as I possibly can.' We'll fight this cancer. With all the kids behind me it's been a successful season and enjoyable for me. Very enjoyable."

Miller received a round of applause as he took his familiar position in the first base coaching box when the Bulldogs batted in the first inning.

Miller didn't find out about the event until he arrived at the field about an hour before the game started. But there was already a large crowd gathered comprised of family, friends and former players, some of whom traveled from out of state for the game. Current and former players all gathered on the third base line before the game started with Miller.

Bulldog pitcher Taran Alvelo said Miller earned his honor.

"Him and his wife have been a part of this community for years," she said. "Everybody loves him and we want to give back to him and show that he's loved and cared for."

Outfielder Morgan Sells said the team doesn't dwell on Miller's condition, but does try to win games for him.

"He always keeps good spirits and if something's wrong he's always there to pick you up and talk to you," she said. "He's very good with moral support and very kind."

Miller's wife, Kathy, said she wasn't surprised by the support the community showed her husband.

"It's always been that way," she said. "We've always helped coaches or teachers or students. It's just the Bloom-Carroll community."

Kathy Miller said her husband's condition is tough, but that the family is hopeful.

"Right now, he's tired but feeling good when he comes out to coach," she said. "He sleeps most of the day so he can stand behind first and coach."

Hamilton Township head coach Sami Long said it was an honor to play the Bulldogs on Miller's night.

"It's one of those things that touches everyone," she said.

jbarron@lancastereaglegazette.com

740-681-4340

Twitter: @JeffDBarron