Normal U-High Swimmer Commits Suicide

On Jan. 3, Jake Miller was found dead due to apparent suicide. Miller was a senior at Normal University High in Bloomington and was a phenomenal person, and athlete. Best wishes go to his family, and his friends.

Jake Miller was an avid swimmer for most of his life, starting at a very young age. In high school his success will almost be unsurpassable. In the 2013-2014 swimming season, Miller was state champion in the 500 freestyle, and 200 Individual Medley in which he set a state record. In July of 2014 Miller verbally committed to Louisville for a full scholarship. Also, Miller qualified for the Olympic Trials in 2016 in the 400 Meter Individual Medley.

“It is tragic to hear about the loss of such a great person and athlete, he was an amazing competitor and a joy to watch swim” Says Travis Gourley, a senior at Urbana High School.

Miller had been a member of the Normal U-High swim team since his freshman year, while also swimming on the Redbird Swim Club stationed in Bloomington. Each season, the Urbana Boys Swimming and Diving program has a meet against U-High. This season, the Urbana Boys team traveled to Bloomington to compete.

“His talent in the water was amazing. It’s a privilege being able to see talent such as his,” said Urbana Boys Swimming and Diving Head Coach Joel Williams.

On Jan. 10, Champaign Centennial hosted their annual swim invite where over 15 teams from around the state come to compete. Normal U-High was one of those teams. Each swimmer on their team honored Jake Miller by writing his initials “JM” on the shoulders. Also, at the beginning of the meet Miller was honored by the listing of his achievements, which was then followed by a moment of silence.

Jake Miller is renowned for his impressive talent in the pool and for being an amazing person outside of the pool. His friends, family, and the swimming community will miss Jake dearly.