Valley College legend Jim McMillan retires after 21 years

The hall-of-fame coach leaves behind a powerhouse aquatics program and a legacy of mentorship.

By: Gabriela Martinez, Staff Writer

The poolside deck at Valley College will look a little different next season without the familiar sight of Coach Jim McMillan. After 21 years of leading the aquatics program, coach McMillan is officially hanging up his whistle, leaving a mark on the facility and the hundreds of athletes who trained there.

While his resume is anchored by a Division 1 national championship at Pepperdine University, McMillan’s transition to Valley was fueled by a desire for a sustainable career. He sought a full-time position that offered better pay and benefits with less stress than the fast-paced Division 1 circuit. Under his leadership, the program became a powerhouse, reaching postseason more consistently than any other sport at Valley.

“We’re in the middle of the Valley, it's not necessarily a powerhouse for aquatics,” said Dave Mallas, Valley athletic director. “Five conference championships in a row beating Santa Barbara, beating Cuesta you know Santa Monica, all beach schools. 

“Its been a good run here. I think I did some good for some kids.” said McMillan. “We won a few championships which was nice. But more importantly, I hope I had an impact on some kid’s lives.” 

The foundation of that success was built on a demanding training schedule. Athletes endured year-round practices, including four-hour-long summer sessions that began at 6 a.m. and resumed in the afternoon. Despite the intensity, the coach maintained a calm leadership style. While other coaches might be heard shouting across the pool, he is often the quietest person on the deck. He is easily spotted in his signature straw hat, a white shirt and shorts, sporting permanent sunburn from decades under the California sun.

“I still try to stay the same as far as coaching, as far as what I expect from my student athletes,” he said. “If you're going to do something, do it right, and do it to the best of your ability.”

The 64-year-old kinesiology professor grew up in Orange County, where his father, a Southern California native and lifelong waterman, taught him to swim. This early start led to a standout career playing water polo in high school and training with the U.S. Junior National team. After college, he trained with the national team in pursuit of an Olympic roster spot. Though he never reached the games, that elite experience fueled his coaching career.

His philosophy was inherited from his father, and sharpened by legendary mentors. While coaching at Pepperdine, McMillan was introduced to UCLA basketball icon John Wooden by his mentor, Mart Dunphy. A lunch at Wooden's home left a lasting impression on the young strategist. 

“He’s one of the greatest coaches of all time,” McMillan said of Wooden, who served as his primary inspiration leading with discipline and grace. 

That inspiration led to a career defined by milestones, including multi-time WSC Swim Coach of the Year, and his historic 1997 NCAA title victory against USC. 

“And he just did a tremendous job until his even his last year,” said Mallas. “From his first year of Valley College to his 22nd.”

As he prepares to slow down and attend more sporting events as a spectator rather than a strategist, the veteran coach admits he will miss the daily camaraderie. He expressed gratitude for the support of his assistant coaches, Jorge, Gary, Dan, Jason and Sako, who helped him maintain the program's high standards.

Chase Martsolf, one of McMillan’s students, competed at the Western State Conference championships as the sole representative for the men's team, carrying the weight of his team and his coach one last time. 

“My main motivator for going was my coach, as this is his last season coaching,” said Martsolf. “It felt amazing to learn that I was going to state, but it was even better to realize that I was able to compete for him one last time.”