Henry Miller from Marmion Academy had plenty of reasons to smile recently. After enduring numerous injuries that sidelined him in football over the last two seasons, the senior running back finally made a successful return. Miller had been out since Week 3 due to a fracture and torn ligaments in his ankle. This followed a challenging junior year where a groin injury in Week 4 affected his basketball season as well. “Last year was tough mentally,” Miller explained. “This year hasn’t been much better being my senior year. The only thing you can do is hit the weight room and aim to return soon.”
Miller seized the opportunity during Marmion’s Class 4A opening-round playoff game against North Lawndale at Knute Rockne Stadium in Chicago. Despite a six-week layoff, Miller showed no signs of rust. He amassed 122 yards and scored three touchdowns on nine carries, aiding Marmion’s 40-0 victory over North Lawndale. “Getting through the game healthy means more than the stats,” Miller commented. “I’m grateful to God and appreciative of my linemen. Winning a playoff game, regardless of the opponent, feels great.”
The host team, North Lawndale (5-5), struggled with only 23 players in uniform against Marmion’s side (4-6), who are set to play Sterling (7-2) next weekend. Senior quarterback Colin McEniry expressed his relief at Miller’s return. “Having Henry back is fantastic. He brings energy to our offense, defense, and even practice,” said McEniry. He was named CCL/ESCC Red’s player of the year last season as a receiver but took on QB responsibilities due to another injury just before the season started. The left-handed McEniry continues to progress, completing 7 of 12 passes for 118 yards and two touchdowns. “I learn something new every day, which goes for everyone,” McEniry shared. “I’m more comfortable leading plays and analyzing defenses.”
Marmion’s running back legacy runs in Miller’s family. His grandfather, Gary “Ach” Miller, and his father, Gary Miller, both played for the Cadets. “Football is my favorite,” Henry declared, who also participates in track, besides basketball. He holds one NCAA Division III offer from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and aims to play college football despite past injuries. “Being knocked down and coming back stronger benefits me mentally,” Miller observed. “I plan on preparing for the next stage during the offseason.”
Miller’s return to the field was seamless, opening the game with a 41-yard run on his first play to the North Lawndale 13-yard line, followed by a 6-yard and then a 7-yard touchdown run. His touchdowns continued with runs of 9 and 40 yards. Junior receiver Aidan Miller, unrelated to Henry, added a 41-yard touchdown reception, while senior Ryan Loria secured a 27-yard touchdown catch.Miller received clearance from his doctor two weeks prior, which afforded him extra recovery time. “I felt some pain,” he recalled, “But taping it up and taking Advil helped.” Henry Miller also plays strong safety on defense. “His conditioning was slightly impacted,” noted Marmion coach Adam Guerra. “He participated in about three-fourths of the running back plays in the first half and a quarter on defense. He’ll be set for next week’s game.”