Photo Courtesy of UCFSD

Former UHS athletic director Joe Derickson (center) poses with his award with memnbers of the UHS staff and administration

Emma Marcotte ‘27

STAFF WRITER

Recently, former athletic director Mr. Joe Derickson’s achievements were commended with his induction into the Ches-Mont Hall of Fame. Derrickson started as a math teacher in 1978, after which his passion for all things athletics led him to take up a part time coaching position while teaching. Through his teaching journey, he coached JV girls’ basketball, JV boys’ basketball, and varsity boys’ basketball. Derrickson’s coaching experience eventually led to him becoming athletic director from 2008 to 2017.

Current athletic director Mr. Joe Vogler said, “I only worked with Mr. Derickson for my first year, but I would describe him as a hard worker who doesn't like the spotlight. He wanted to do all the work behind the scenes to make sure that everyone else had a great experience and was set up for success.” Derickson’s work was essential for the advancement of the Athletics Program through its early years in the Ches-Mont League. As an athletic director, Derickson approved the addition of two new sports: rowing and boys’ volleyball. Furthermore, Derickson added new facilities such as an artificial turf stadium, main gymnasium, fitness center, athletic training room, locker rooms, and athletics offices. He also produced a plethora of new policies and handbooks that are still utilized today.

During Derickson’s tenure, the high school won 79 American Division Titles, 20 League Titles, four District One Titles, and one PIAA State Title. The high school also had nine individual state champions during Derickson’s time as an athletic director. Outside of school, within the Ches-Mont League, Joe Derickson was the league chairperson for Track & Field and Girls Basketball. Additionally, in the running world, he was a meet manager for the annual track championship meet and hosted Ches-Mont Final four games. He also co-chaired the League By-Laws Review Committee in 2014. Overall, Derrickson was active in PSADA and PIAA District 1 during his time at the high school. After his retirement in 2013, he stayed active with leadership roles in both of these organizations.

Most recently, Joe Derickson was inducted into the Ches-Mont Hall of Fame, a great honor received by only those who have shaped the landscape and league of high school sports in Chester County. To be nominated, the current athletic director or principal is selected by a committee of athletic directors, principals, and retired athletic directors who decide the new member of the Ches-Mont Hall of Fame for each year.

Overall, Derickson is an accomplished and respected member in the athletic family and the community congratulates him on his significant achievement.