Derek has been coaching for the Mendocino Coast Sea Dragons since its inception in 2009.  Derek emphasizes fun, discipline and dedication in the pool. He sees swimming as a life-long sport that positively influences swimmers' lives in and out of the pool. He coaches all levels, focussing on Blue-Gold groups, and he oversees the Sea Dragon program.

Derek also teaches at Mendocino Community High School, where he has taught history, civics and outdoor education since 1995. He has a BA in Politics from UC Santa Cruz and a MA in Experiential Education from the University of Colorado, Boulder. When he is not teaching or coaching, he is either taking adventures with his family or surfing along the Mendocino Coast.
 
Swimming has always been part of Derek’s life. He grew up swimming competitively and playing high school water polo. Derek continues to swim as part of his own training for surfing and triathlons. Derek loves the fun, challenging, and competitive aspects of swimming, and enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for the sport with young people.