Hailing from Miami, Florida, Derek’s journey spans from excelling in high school baseball and football to volunteering at Shea Stadium in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks.
Witnessing the military buildup in the Middle East while working as a stockbroker, he felt a profound calling to enlist in the U.S. Army, dedicating over 18 years to Special Operations in some of the world’s most dangerous regions.
Amidst the chaos, a newfound passion for golf emerged just three years ago, leading to a commitment of playing three times a week. Beyond personal enjoyment, he extended his love for the game by volunteering as a coach for First Tee – Sandhills and a girls’ high school team over the past year and a half, contributing to the growth of young golf enthusiasts. Derek’s profound love for the game of golf transcends personal boundaries into acts of community service and inspiration.
“My favorite moment while coaching at First Tee – Sandhills had to have been while working a goal post drill on the range. One of the players was having difficulty making good contact, let alone getting it through the goal posts we had set up. But, with some extra encouragement from the other players, he was able to knock it through. The smile on his face and the loud cheering and emotion from his friends, is a moment I will never forget.”
Look for Derek this Spring at First Tee – Sandhills Programs at Gates Four Golf & CC and Stryker Golf Course.
Thanks Coach Derek for your commitment to Building Game Changers.