Former NFL wide receiver visits with local fans
Former five-time pro Bowler Lawrence Anthony Miller made a stop in Gallup to greet enthused football fans of all ages Oct. 13.
Fans had the chance to meet Miller at a live radio broadcast at Amigo Chevrolet, 1900 S. 2nd St.
Miller is a former professional National Football League wide receiver who played for the San Diego Chargers, the Denver Broncos and the Dallas Cowboys.
He played college football at the University of Tennessee, which launched his 10-year professional football career.
Miller, who currently lives in Southern California, said he thoroughly enjoyed every minute of his football career — and he said he also enjoyed his recent visit to Gallup.
“I’ve been around town and seen the places here,” he said. “I’ve driven through many times on my way to Albuquerque, but this is my first time ever in Gallup.”
Miller said, occassionally, he shares his experience with kids at football camps, which are often put on by former football players Miller’s worked with in his career. But these days, Miller’s wrapped up with his own kids in their sports, which he said keeps him busy.
“I have a 12-year-old as well as a 13-year-old that play basketball and soccer year round,” he said. “They keep me pretty busy and it’s fun to spend time with them now. Earlier in my career, I was always on the road and I didn’t get to do that.”
When asked about memorable times with specific teams, Miller said each team he played with has a specific memory that has made his career as a wide receiver special.
“They were all memorable moments, I can remember catching the winning touchdown with the Chargers beating the Cleveland Browns,” he said. “I remember on a Monday night, winning against the Philadelphia Eagles with another touchdown catch with the Cowboys, also with the Broncos playing against the Cowboys and scoring three touchdowns against them. I have nothing to complain about; it’s a blessing to play 10 years and to achieve some of the goals. I’m happy.”
Millennium Media, Inc. General Manager Sammy Chioda was pleased to have Miller at the Oct. 13 event.
“It’s a privilege anytime you have somebody of caliber like Anthony Miller to come into the community,” Chioda said. “He was so generous meeting with the Charger fans, the Broncos and the Cowboy fans here today.”
Dallas Cowboys fan Will Calabaza was thrilled to meet Miller and said it was an honor to see him and shake his hand.
“I couldn’t believe I got to see him and get an autographed picture,” Calabaza said. “He was so really nice and cool. I had a lot of questions for him, like how he got his start in football and all that. I only wished I had brought my football for him to sign.”
By Dee Velasco
For the Sun