UPDATE: Santee High’s star running back, Darnell Miller, is making headlines this season, leading the City Section with a staggering 1,159 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. The 17-year-old senior is not just a football player; he embodies resilience and commitment as he balances his athletic pursuits with caring for his younger brother.
Each morning, Miller walks Fredrick, his 10-year-old brother, to school before continuing his journey to Santee High in downtown Los Angeles. After classes, he often jogs to pick up Fredrick again, showcasing his dedication both on and off the field. This commitment shines through in Miller’s impressive performances, including a remarkable 209 yards rushing in a recent 43-7 loss against University, earning praise from opposing coach Bryan Robinson, who declared him “the No. 1 running back in the City Section.”
As Santee holds a record of 4-1 this season, Miller’s rise to stardom is captivating fans. His journey began when he moved from Memphis to Los Angeles in late 2018. Initially hesitant about football, he transitioned from a point guard on the varsity basketball team to a running back at the urging of Santee’s coaches. “They kept asking me and I said I’d give it a try. Now I love it,” Miller stated.
Miller’s versatility extends beyond the offensive backfield; he also plays as a defensive back, proving to be a natural athlete. Coach John Petty emphasized Miller’s innate talent for the position, stating, “He’s a natural at running back.”
Raised by a single mother, Miller’s life experiences have shaped him into a leader on and off the field. His bond with Fredrick is evident, as the young boy often joins him on the football bus for road games. The duo’s quiet demeanor belies their strength, but Miller’s growing vocal presence on the field indicates his development as a player. “I feel I can still get better,” he warned, hinting at even greater potential ahead.
As the season progresses, several standout players are emerging as potential candidates for player-of-the-year honors. Notable names include sophomore quarterbacks Chase Curren from Crespi and Gino Wang from JSerra, alongside senior quarterback Jack Thomas from Palisades.
Exciting developments are also unfolding among surprise teams, with Los Alamitos leading the pack at 7-0, followed by Beaumont at 4-1 and Norco at 5-0.
With Miller’s impressive statistics and the momentum of Santee’s season, all eyes will be on him as they continue their campaign. Fans and followers are eager to see how this young athlete’s story unfolds as he strives for greatness on the field and beyond.
