Full Name: Derek C. Hewlett

Graduation Year: 1999

High School Sport(s) Played: Football and Baseball

Position/Role: Football – Running back and Strong safety (Captain) Baseball – Pitcher

College Attended: Lehigh University

College Sport Played: Football

High School Memories

What are some of your favorite memories from playing sports at Abington Heights?

In football, it was all about winning games—even the disappointing defeat to Central Bucks West in the state playoffs. Being on a charter bus was pretty exciting. In baseball, it was about team spirit and preparation.

Is there a specific game, moment, or achievement that stands out?

To say that I was the leading rusher and scorer in the Lackawanna football conference was a source of pride for me. Additionally, we won the District Championship. While it was quite remarkable to defeat West Scranton in the first round of the playoffs with a score of 63-6, playing Central Bucks West at Council Rock in the state playoffs was actually pretty fantastic, despite the fact that we ended up losing. Also, the Riverside game that I played in during my junior year at Riverside was a lot of fun. It was a big game that we won. Since we were successful, each and every football game was a lot of fun.

Who was the most influential coach, teammate, or mentor during your time in high school sports?

It is clear that Coach Greg Justave and I have a unique connection, but I must admit that I enjoyed all of my coaches.

How did playing sports at Abington Heights shape you as a person?

By participating in sports at Abington Heights, I was able to develop into a person who is ethical. There is little doubt that sports there instilled discipline in me, despite the fact that I am not perfect.

Post-High School Journey

Did you continue playing sports at the college level?

Yes, Lehigh University football. Academically and athletically, it was really demanding and difficult, but it was an amazing experience, and we had a fantastic team with wonderful coaches and guys.

What was the biggest adjustment from high school to college sports?

The speed and complexity of the game’s logistics are also important factors. Additionally, the requirements for the workout.

What are you doing now in your career or personal life?

I work in landscaping for Cougar Landscaping.

Advice & Reflections

What lessons did you learn from high school sports that still help you today?

Discipline

What advice would you give to current student-athletes at Abington Heights?

Keep going with what you’re doing and, if you have the opportunity, attempt to play in college.

If you could go back and relive one moment from your athletic career, what would it be and why?

For me, that is a difficult question to answer because I have a lot of them, but I clearly remember us being up 21-0 at halftime against a Valley View team that was really good. While they got very close, we were able to come out on top. I really wish I could play that game once again.

Extras

Do you have any fun or unexpected hobbies now?

The stock market, music, and spending time with friends and family are some of my favorite things to do. In addition to that, I developed an interest in swimming and am currently playing basketball at the YMCA on occasion.

Where can people follow you on social media?

Facebook  LinkedIn