GREENVILLE, Pa. (Aug. 4) -- After nearly two decades leading his alma mater's golf program, Thiel College Head Golf Coach Dan McMillen '86 has announced his retirement, concluding a coaching tenure defined by mentorship, competitive success and an unwavering commitment to the student-athlete experience.
A Thiel graduate, accomplished PGA Professional and lifelong ambassador for the game of golf, McMillen spent 16 seasons as head coach of the Tomcats, including an initial stint from 2008-10 before returning to the program in 2011. Throughout his time on the course, he guided countless student-athletes while helping elevate the program both on the course and in the classroom.
"Coach McMillen's impact on Thiel College extends far beyond the golf course," Isaac Collins, Director of Athletics, said. "Over the past 20 years, he has represented our institution with integrity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to developing young people through the game of golf. As a Thiel alumnus, former student-athlete, PGA Professional, and head coach, Dan has dedicated a significant part of his life to serving this College and our student-athletes. His leadership helped elevate our golf programs while fostering a culture centered on academic success, sportsmanship, and personal growth."
McMillen's tenure was highlighted by one of the greatest individual seasons in program history when Jason Thorp captured the 2018 Presidents' Athletic Conference Spring Championship and was named PAC Most Valuable Player. Thorp became the first Tomcat to win an individual conference title and earn PAC MVP honors since Bill Wadrose accomplished the feat in 2000.
"Coaching at Thiel has been one of the greatest privileges of my life," McMillen said. "To have the opportunity to give back to the college that gave me so much has been incredibly rewarding. I've been fortunate to coach outstanding young men and women, work alongside tremendous colleagues and build friendships that will last a lifetime. In all the places I've been, there's no place like Thiel, and I'll always be proud to be a Tomcat. I'm grateful to everyone who made this journey so special."
Before returning to Thiel, McMillen served for 19 years as the club and teaching professional at Greenville Country Club, where he helped introduce and develop generations of golfers throughout the region. He later served as Assistant Golf Professional at Tam O'Shanter Golf Course before joining the staff at Avalon Golf and Country Club, where he continues to serve as an Assistant PGA Professional during the summer months.
"We are grateful for everything Dan has contributed to Thiel Athletics and appreciate the lasting legacy he leaves through the many student-athletes he has mentored, the championships and individual accomplishments he helped make possible, and the relationships he built throughout our campus community," Collins added. "On behalf of Thiel College Athletics, I want to thank Dan for his years of dedicated service and wish him and Kim nothing but the very best in retirement."
A 1986 graduate of Thiel College with a degree in business administration, McMillen was a four-year letter winner for the Tomcat golf program and earned All-PAC honors as a senior. He went on to earn Class A PGA Professional status in 1996 and was recognized with the Tri-State PGA's Bill Strausbaugh Award in 2013 for his outstanding commitment to the game of golf and the golf profession. He also enjoyed a successful 19-year tenure as head coach at Greenville High School, compiling a record of 182-101 while helping numerous student-athletes continue their careers at the collegiate level.
Thiel College Athletics extends its sincere appreciation to Dan for his years of leadership, loyalty and service to the Tomcat golf program and wishes Dan and his wife, Kim '87, the very best in retirement.
A national search is underway for the next leader of the Thiel Men's and Women's Golf programs.
