Like many of you, when I think of my time playing sports as a kid, the first coach who comes to mind is Mike McGill. He coached dozens of teams over the years, and passed on his love of sports to a generation of Republic kids. Mike passed away on April 14, and I know a lot of us have memories of Mike we could share with his family. I’ve set up this page to collect some of those memories.
Even more than game nights, I remember a lot of Saturday morning practices on a dusty Garroute Field. Mike coached us, taught us, and joked with us. Baseball practice and game night were the highlights of my entire year, and Mike was a big reason why. As I grew up, Mike remained interested in me and my life, and I know I’m not the only one. We continued to talk about sports, and I always enjoyed seeing him in his usual spot at Republic basketball games, sharing a brief conversation — always with the same smile that conveyed how happy he was to be at a game. — David Brazeal
If you have memories or thoughts to share with Mike’s family (or photos you can dig up of some old teams), you can do in the form at the right side of the page (or the bottom of the page if you are on a phone). Here are a few of the thoughts people submitted:
Mike was my basketball coach from 3rd-6th grade, my softball coach in jr high, and my best friend’s dad. I have so many childhood memories with him. Some of my favorite include going to Midnight Madness every year, trips to Andy’s, riding in the red truck, shooting baskets in the driveway, free throw competitions, two trips to the final four and a State Championship. Mike’s humor and sarcasm made spending time with him so much fun but what I will forever be grateful for is the many wall sits he made me do and all the times he yelled at me. I can remember telling myself not to cry when he would stare at me with those big blue eyes. A lot of times he wouldn’t even say anything….but you knew what the stare meant. He was hard on us and had high expectations but because of that he taught me how to work hard, how to compete, and instilled a sense of mental toughness in me. When people ask me who the most influential person in my life is, I always say my dad because he taught me all those things as well, but honestly I had two pretty special people that instilled that in me. Over the years I’ve always had a special bond with Mike. I can’t remember a time that I didn’t hug him when I saw him. I know in my heart that he loved me like his own. Mike is a big reason as to why I fell in love with the game of basketball and why I am where I am today. I will always be thankful for that. He might not have ever forgiven me for never taking that motorcycle ride with him (I’m terrified of motorcycles) but I do plan on taking him up on his offer one day, on those streets of gold ,when I see him again. Oh What a Day That Will Be. I Love you Mike❤️ — Tori Mooneyham
My memories of Mike was of his constant smile. He never said anything bad about anyone, he cheered his kids with a bigger smile but with humility. He was just as excited if another kid did something good as his own. His love for his wife and the way they worked together to raise their children was a great example for couple everywhere. I can’t believe you’re gone but God must’ve known your job here was done. RIP Mike and smile down on us. — Karen Fulks
I consider myself lucky to have played for Mike. — Paula
I never played on one of Mike’s teams. However, I can’t remember a time when the McGill clan wasn’t around. I am 2 years younger than Stephanie and a year older than Melissa. I played ball with both of these girls. But I remember watching all of them playing. Mike was always in the stands. Cheering, clapping and just smiling. He had the best smile! Mike always told you great game, great win. He fully supported Repmo ball! Growing up everyone would always say “the Mooneyham’s and McGill’s” there were a lot of us. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Winning the girls first state championship for Republic is something I hope to always remember. You couldn’t have wiped the smiles off of the faces of the McGill and Mooneyham dads. Hugs and high fives were given. And the pride Mike had, I’m positive, was immeasurable. The picture I am including is from the last time I saw Mike. Even when he wasn’t feeling the greatest he made sure to be at our 1994 State Championship 30 year recognition. He hugged each one of us like we were his own. Mike was one of a kind. One of the good ones. And the town of Republic is better because of him. We will miss his big smile and kind heart. But his love for Repmo sports will live on! — Glenna Lander
So sad to hear of his passing. He was a great guy with a great family. Love and prayers for the McGills. – Tracy Lucchese
I’m going to go ahead and post this picture on here since I know my family already has it and I know my father in law would get a good laugh on my behalf. I’m still trying to process that he’s really gone. Mike was my first basketball coach in second grade and continued to be my basketball, softball, and baseball coach until I got to junior high. I got the privilege of playing on his girls and boys teams. He never seemed to stop coaching even as I got into junior high and high school. He always had pointers after the games. I spent many days and nights in his driveway playing basketball and at their house spending the night with Melissa. Several years went by after high school, but we never lost touch since Mike and Janis lived on opposite ends of the street from my parents. Later, I went on to marry Kevin, and officially became part of the family, although he never treated as if I wasn’t. We had so many fun times, being teammates while playing cards, lots of family get togethers, and bannering back and forth. Watching basketball and watching motorcycles go by will never be the same. And as for a card playing partner….not sure that can be replaced. I’m sure going to miss him!! — Ashley McGill
One of the best!! He will be missed by so many. There is something that he taught me that I still remember to this day. I once questioned him about where he put me in the lineup after batting first or second a few games before I was fourth. Back then Kevin McGill and I usually were one and two. He chuckled before telling me that the number four guy was the most regarded spot to hold and I should be happy about it. I’ve told that story a few times because it relates to things people encounter through life. Just wanted to pass that along. I also remember that I never wanted to let him down. — Rusty Bodenhamer
Great man great coach great father so sorry to the family for this loss. — Kara Lee Colvin
Great man. So blessed to have in my life. So much love to all his family. — Lesha Rittenhouse
