The Kentucky HS Coaches Association proudly presents the 2025 Bob Miller Outstanding Service Award, named after KHSCA founding father—Coach Bob Miller, from Newport HS. The Bob Miller Award recognizes those who embody Coach Miller’s dedication and an unwavering commitment to student-athletes.
The 2025 recipient of this award is Coach JD Strange. For 48 years, Coach Strange has devoted his life to athletics, pouring his heart and soul into the athletes of Bell County, Allen County-Scottsville, Knox Central, and Pineville High Schools. His journey began in 1977 as an assistant coach at Campbellsville University for 3 years. In 1980, he became the head coach at St Catherine Junior College. He began his high school coaching career in 1984 when he assumed the role of Head Boys Basketball Coach at Bell County. Under his leadership, his Bobcat teams reached the 13th Region finals three times.
From 1993 to 1999, Coach Strange took over at Allen County-Scottsville, where his
1996 team made history by capturing the 4th Region Championship. After a year at Knox Central High School, he continued his mission at Pineville High School, where he built champions. His Pineville teams clinched the All A13th Region championship four times, demonstrating the excellence and tenacity he instilled in his athletes.
Coach Strange’s accomplishments extend far beyond wins and losses. He has been recognized as a 7-time Region Coach of the Year— He has served in leadership roles with various organizations, including the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches, the 13th region basketball coaches association, and the Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame. His contributions have earned him a cherished spot in the KABC “Court of Honor” and the 13th Region Basketball Hall of Fame.
As we honor Coach Strange’s contributions, we also recognize the impact he has had on the lives of countless student-athletes. The mentorship, guidance, and life lessons he has imparted have shaped them into not just better players, but better individuals. Coach Strange is accompanied by his son James, daughter-in-law Tiffany, and his grandchildren, Clara, Cannon, and Knox Strange.
