Woodruff has a rich history in athletic tradition and has produced many great athletes through the years. Coach Derek Jones is one of Woodruff’s most decorated and inspirational leader-athletes. Regardless of where his successful career has taken him, he has always remained tightly connected to the Woodruff community.
After his record-setting years in track and football at WHS, he went on to play football for Ole Miss. During his time at Ole Miss, he won several awards, including the prestigious Chucky Mullins Courage Award. Coach Jones understood very early that participating in athletics provides opportunities to create a winning mindset on the field and also in life. He often talks about the importance of a positive attitude and always playing to win.
Coach Jones’ transition into coaching seemed very natural. His career in coaching football at the D1 level has been stellar, winning bowl games at both Texas Tech and Duke University. He is entering his 23rd year of coaching and his first season at Virginia Tech.
Ben Harrison, the owner of Tap Three, honored the achievements of Coach Jones by displaying some of Coach Jones’ memorabilia on the walls of Tap Three. Pictured in the photo below is an autographed Ole Miss helmet, a framed copy of Derek wearing an Ole Miss jersey #38, and a framed autographed cover of Derek’s book, Ap2w, Always Play to Win.
Ben said, “Derek doesn’t have many opportunities to come home due to his busy schedule.” Hence, he invited former athletes, friends, family, and the Woodruff community to join in the celebration of honoring Derek. Ben said, “we honor him by hanging some memorabilia he has been generous enough to donate to our establishment. Nothing but Wolverine Pride during the celebration at Tap Three. Special thanks to Derek Jones for all he has done for our town and congratulations on his decorated career…we should also mention he has the sweetest mom in town!” (Referring to Mrs. Lucille Jones). “ I am grateful to Ben Harrison and look forward to visiting Tap Three more in the future,” said Derek.
In addition to visiting with friends and family at Tap Three, Derek’s company hosted a lunch at Claudio’s with the Kaye S. Simmons Scholarship recipients along with participants in the #Ap2w Professional Development Program. “Investing in the educational goals of these WHS graduates is important, but providing mentoring and being a part is their growth is equally important,” said Derek. “I enjoy the time that I get to spend with them. Naketa, my wife, and I will continue to invest in the lives of the young people in Woodruff who aspire to attend and graduate from college.”
Mr. Terry Simmons, Purple Heart recipient, joined the lunch along with his wife, Mrs. Angelique Jarvis-Simmons, as the Kaye S. Simmons Scholarship is named in honor of Mr. Simmons’ deceased wife. She was also one of Derek’s elementary school teachers. Mrs. Kaye Simmons died a few years ago after a long battle with cancer. Derek remained in touch with her over the years and wanted to commemorate her life, excellence in teaching, and commitment to reaching her students by starting a scholarship in her honor. “Honoring Mrs. Simmons is one way to show appreciation to all of the excellent teachers who are like her and are intentional about making a difference in the lives of their students.”
Terry and Angelique are faithful supporters of the scholarship. Each year they attend the awards presentation and support fund-raising efforts for the scholarship. Derek said, “I always learn something from listening to Mr. Simmons’ Wolverine and war stories.” It’s great that the scholarship recipients have the privilege of listening to his wisdom and positive outlook on life, despite some of the challenges he has experienced.”
“Woodruff is a special place. I always enjoy coming to Woodruff to spend time with my grandmother, parents, brother, family, and friends. I cherished the time I get to spend with the scholarship and professional development recipients and wish the very best to them, said Derek.
Author: Tracy Sanders
