In a world that too often obsesses over youth and novelty, there’s something powerful—refreshing, even—about a story that reminds us wisdom, experience, and heart are timeless.
At The Pingry School, nestled in the heart of New Jersey, Miller Bugliari is not defined by his age (he recently celebrated his 90th birthday), but by the unstoppable passion and purpose he brings to the soccer field every single day. While most headlines might highlight the milestone of coaching into his tenth decade, here at Explore New Jersey, we think the more compelling story is why he’s still coaching—and how he continues to shape the lives of players, families, and an entire community.
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More Than Just a Coach
With a record-breaking 66 seasons under his belt and an astounding 952 career victories, Coach Bugliari’s resume is legendary. He’s led his teams to six state championships, been named New Jersey Coach of the Year seven times, and has earned induction into nine different halls of fame. He’s coached generations of students, including athletes who went on to play—and lead—at the national level.
But ask anyone who has played for him, taught beside him, or simply passed him in the halls at Pingry, and you’ll hear the same thing: his legacy is built on connection, not just competition.
“He changed me,” says Jeremy Goldstein, a Pingry alum who attributes much of his personal growth to Bugliari’s mentorship. “I wanted to be great for him.”
The Heart of a Program
What makes Bugliari truly exceptional isn’t just the numbers—it’s the everyday impact. His office is a treasure trove of Pingry’s athletic history: team photos, memorabilia, letters from former players, and plaques that could fill a small museum. But beyond the trophies and accolades, this is a space where students still come for advice, encouragement, or just to say hello.
Every season, every player, and every assistant coach matters to him. He’s not just running drills—he’s helping build people. Even now, you’ll see him out at practices—sometimes from a golf cart, sometimes stepping out to demonstrate a defensive stance. And when he speaks, his players listen.
Assistant coach David Fahey, a former player himself, put it best:
“His assistants are like the dad telling you to eat your vegetables. Miller’s the grandfather slipping you candy under the table.”
Leadership That Defies Limits
While the world is often too quick to associate age with limitation, Bugliari’s approach flips the script. His daily involvement isn’t a novelty—it’s a necessity for the Pingry community. He’s deeply connected to college recruiters, national coaches, and international programs, bringing top-tier opportunities and visibility to the school’s players.
And yet, he’s also the guy who remembers your birthday, sends a friendly nudge if you haven’t visited in a while, and shows up with a laugh and a story.
“He’s almost a larger-than-life figure,” says senior captain Akku Chanchal. “But he doesn’t act like one.”
A Builder of More Than Champions
For Bugliari, soccer has always been a vehicle—not just for athletic excellence, but for access, equity, and community building.
As a scholarship student himself, he’s dedicated decades to raising funds for financial aid and expanding Pingry’s reach. His recent 90th birthday celebration wasn’t just a party—it was a fundraiser that brought in $6 million for student scholarships.
That kind of commitment doesn’t come from a place of ego. It comes from someone who remembers what it’s like to need a hand—and wants to be that hand for others.
What Keeps Him Going
When asked whether it’s time to slow down, Bugliari gives a characteristically thoughtful answer.
“Sometimes, when I’m driving home, I’ll ask myself if I’m enjoying it as much… The answer is almost always yes.”
That joy is visible in every interaction—with co-captains planning international trips, alumni stopping by for a laugh, or players who just need someone to believe in them. He’s not chasing one more win. He’s nurturing one more relationship.
“Some kids don’t think they need anybody,” Bugliari says. “But it’s nice to have someone who cares.”
Legacy in the Making
Coach Bugliari isn’t just making history—he’s making future leaders. His story is a powerful reminder that dedication, integrity, and connection never go out of style. In a society where ageism still quietly whispers that certain doors close as we grow older, Bugliari kicks those doors wide open—and invites the whole team in.
And that’s something worth celebrating far beyond the soccer field.
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Final Word: It’s Not About Age—It’s About Purpose
At 90, Coach Miller Bugliari is far from a relic of the past. He is a living example of what it means to lead with heart, invest in people, and never stop showing up for what you love.
And in a state that’s rich with high school sports traditions, he may just be one of New Jersey’s greatest ongoing stories.
Let’s not focus on the number. Let’s focus on the impact.
Because Coach Bugliari proves that great coaching isn’t bound by age—it’s defined by purpose.
