Central Michigan University Athletics
Derek McLaughlin Profile
11/10/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
Nov. 10, 2003
By Sarah Hamady
Sports Information Assistant
Offensive lineman Derek McLaughlin has been a starter for the Chippewas since late in his redshirt freshman season.
Derek has started 35 games in his career and continues to be hard-working and dedicated to the team.
McLaughlin comes to CMU from Berrien Springs, and has a an active athletic background.
In high school, McLaughlin always played three sports each year. He wrestled, was on the basketball team, played football, and participated in track and field. He was all-state in football, a two-time state champion in shot put, and all-state four times in shot and discus.
"I liked staying in shape and keeping busy," McLaughlin said.
Although Derek was recruited by other schools he came to Mount Pleasant for a couple different reasons.
"CMU was honest and truthful when I talked to them. I also really liked the guys, I felt a part of the team," said Derek.
As part of the CMU football team, Derek is hard working and it shows.
"When I go in to do something I give it my best. I always give 100 percent effort and I hope I can motivate others as well," commented McLaughlin.
Throughout his career at CMU, Derek has learned a lot from his teammates.
"My teammates have taught me how the offensive line is played, how to practice everyday for the best, and they have also showed me their love for the game. I've had great role models while playing at CMU," said Derek.
This season, McLaughlin is one of the team co-captains and was honored to be picked.
"There are many great leaders on our team and it was really an honor to be picked as captain," said Derek.
Derek's most exciting memory of his college football career was winning the CMU-Western Michigan game in 2000.
"There is nothing like an upset on your home field so when we beat Western it was exciting and all of our friends were there to run on the field and celebrate with us," said McLaughlin.
Throughout his time playing football, Derek has received a lot of support from his parents.
"They are always there for me. I can talk to my dad and he always finds the right things to say to motivate and pick up my spirits," said Derek. "It means a lot to me that they come to as many games as they can."
McLaughlin's dad was also a big influence on him in his love for fishing. When Derek was growing up, his dad would take him on fishing vacations.
"I like to fish, it's relaxing," said Derek.
McLaughlin is an education math major and a physical education minor. After he graduates, he is looking into teaching in either Florida or Alaska, places where they are in need of teachers.
Aside from teaching, Derek still wants to play football. He wants to purse a career in the NFL.
"Making it to the NFL will be a self-challenge to see if I could make it," said McLaughlin.
As Derek is ready to graduate he will be taking with him a lot of great memories, but he will miss the team.
"I will always miss my teammates and the time we spent together," said Derek.
His teammates are not the only ones he will miss.
"Coach (Mike) DeBord is a great guy and I look up to him as a coach. He taught me a lot about football and things I will take with me in the future," commented McLaughlin.
Derek's advice for incoming players to the team is, "Your football career goes by fast, never take a day for granted."
