Pfeiffer University recently marked a significant moment in its sports history with the dedication of Lefko-Mills Field, a fitting tribute to two of its most legendary figures in athletics: Nicholas E. Lefko and Randy Mills. This newly named field honors the profound contributions of both individuals to the university’s soccer and lacrosse programs, respectively.
Nicholas E. Lefko, whose legacy with Pfeiffer spans from 1959 to 1974, was a foundational figure in soccer, leading his teams to remarkable achievements, including a national ranking and a 10-1 record in 1965. His induction into the Pfeiffer Sports Hall of Fame in 1990 and the NAIA Hall of Fame in 1979 attests to his lasting impact on the university's athletic community.
Randy Mills, a pioneering force in men's lacrosse, extended his influence beyond Pfeiffer, establishing programs at Cabrini, Limestone, and Neumann College. His passing at the age of 83 in North Carolina was felt deeply across the lacrosse community, underscoring the need for a lasting tribute to his legacy at Pfeiffer. Mills’ induction into several halls of fame and his recognition as the Pennsylvania Lacrosse Coach of the Year highlight his significant contributions to the sport.
The dedication of Lefko-Mills Field was driven by the efforts of Tommy Mills, Randy’s son, who recognized the importance of honoring his father’s memory and the impact he had on Pfeiffer University’s lacrosse program. Frustrated by the state of the old playing field, Tommy spearheaded a fundraising initiative that led to the installation of a new turf field, significantly supported by Rusty Ring, a family friend, and former teammate, who contributed over $100,000 towards the project.
The field's naming was a community-driven decision, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for both Lefko's and Mills' contributions.
Randy Mills' legacy, in particular, is preserved not only through this physical tribute but also through literature and social media, with books like Randall's Rules Volume One and Seeds of Success: Leadership, Legacy, and Life Lessons Learned offering insights into his leadership and personal development philosophies. These works, alongside the upcoming video game "Mills Lacrosse," slated for release in 2026, ensure that Randy Mills' influence on the sport and its players will continue to be felt for generations to come.
The unveiling ceremony of Lefko-Mills Field was a moment of reflection and celebration, with Tommy Mills holding his father’s lacrosse stick as a symbol of the legacy being passed down. “So many wanted the naming to be in Dad’s name! The stories over the past weekend, the lives he touched, the impact he had on so many... Many have said he gave me the chance, the opportunity, 'I wouldn’t be where I am today had it not been for your Dad, for Coach!'” Tommy shared, emphasizing the profound personal and professional impact Randy Mills had on his players.
For more information on Randy Mills’ contributions to lacrosse and his posthumous honors, visit the following links:
Books by John Brubaker:
Randy Mills is a member of the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Mills, a lacrosse coach and legend, started teams at Pfeiffer University, Limestone University, and Neumann College. He was also named the Pennsylvania Lacrosse Coach of the Year. With great relationships with the Gait Brothers and many influential players, he was dubbed "the Johnny Appleseed of Lacrosse." Currently, the video game "Mills Lacrosse" is in production and set to launch in 2026, following a similar style to the Madden Series. The charismatic, fun, and infectious personality Mills embodied is reminiscent of the series.
The Lacrosse Network posted a viral trickshot video of Mills' grandson in 2016.