06/22/2026
🏈 Meet Our Back River Bulls President – Derek 🐂
Derek's journey with the Back River Bulls began in 1990 when he first put on a football helmet as a young athlete in the program. One of the biggest influences in his life was the league's founder, Keke Goodson, who became both a mentor and father figure. That relationship helped shape not only the coach Derek would become, but the leader he is today.
After proudly serving eight years in the U.S. Army, Derek returned home in 2015 when Keke's son, Derek Goodson, invited him to help coach. What started as lending a hand on the field quickly grew into a lifelong commitment to the organization. Since then, Derek has served as a coach, Vice President, and has proudly led the Back River Bulls as President since 2017.
Throughout his years with the Bulls, Derek has been part of multiple Super Bowl Championship teams as both a Head Coach and Assistant Coach. While those victories are special, he says his greatest accomplishment has been helping build a strong leadership team behind the scenes. He believes the future of the organization depends on dedicated volunteers, committed coaches, and leaders who continue to uphold the values that have defined the Back River Bulls for generations.
Being President means much more than a title. It means late-night phone calls, long weekends, preparing fields, solving problems, making difficult decisions, and always putting the kids first.
Through it all, Derek remains committed to the Bulls' long-standing philosophy:
❤️ "No Kid Left Behind."
That mission is what keeps him coming back year after year. For Derek, it's about the kids, the families, and the community. He believes football teaches resilience, discipline, teamwork, passion, leadership, and perseverance—life lessons that extend far beyond the football field.
As he looks toward one day passing the torch, Derek's goal is simple: leave the organization stronger than he found it. Since 1994, the Back River Bulls have earned 40+ Super Bowl Championships and 230+ playoff appearances, making the program one of the most successful youth football organizations in the region. He knows that tradition will continue because of the incredible board members, coaches, volunteers, and families who invest their time and hearts into every season.
When asked what he enjoys most, Derek doesn't hesitate:
✨ Friday night lights.
Watching young athletes grow into confident players, strong leaders, and outstanding people makes every long day worth it.
Thank you, Derek, for your unwavering dedication, leadership, and countless hours of service to the Back River Bulls. Your commitment has impacted generations of athletes, and your legacy will continue to inspire those who wear the maroon and black for years to come.
