Derek Harris, Jr

Passionate and dedicated basketball coach with experience leading both high school and youth athletes in skill development, teamwork, and competitive play. Proven ability to plan engaging practices, teach fundamental basketball techniques, develop game strategies, and mentor players to reach their full potential on and off the court. Committed to fostering discipline, sportsmanship, confidence, and a positive team culture while building strong relationships with athletes, parents, and school staff.

Experienced in organizing practices, managing game-day operations, and encouraging academic and personal success alongside athletic achievement.

Youth City Basketball Coach - Youth City Basketball

(2016-01 - 2021-12)

• Planned and conducted practices focused on basketball fundamentals, including dribbling, passing, shooting, defense, and teamwork.
• Developed age-appropriate training programs to improve players' skills, fitness, and overall game knowledge.
• Coached athletes during games by implementing offensive and defensive strategies and making in-game adjustments.
• Fostered a positive, inclusive team environment that emphasized sportsmanship, discipline, respect, and personal growth.
• Evaluated player performance and provided constructive feedback to encourage continuous improvement.
• Mentored young athletes by building confidence, leadership skills, and a strong work ethic on and off the court.
• Organized practice schedules, game lineups, and player rotations to maximize team development and participation.
• Communicated regularly with parents, league officials, and coaching staff regarding schedules, player progress, and team expectations.
• Ensured player safety by following league rules, enforcing proper training techniques, and maintaining a safe practice environment.
• Assisted with tournament preparation, team logistics, and equipment management.
• Encouraged academic success and positive character development alongside athletic achievement.
• Promoted teamwork, accountability, and effective communication to build strong team chemistry.

Soccer Coach - EAD Academy

(2022-01 - 2024-12)

Licensed US Soccer Coach. Coached 3 different age groups at a competitive level. 2016 girls team became nationally ranked #6 in 2024.

Soccer Coach - FC Cardinals Academy

(2024-01)

Coach 3 different age groups at a competitive level.

• Planned and led engaging practices focused on fundamental soccer skills, including passing, dribbling, shooting, ball control, and defensive techniques.
• Developed age-appropriate training sessions that promoted skill development, teamwork, and physical fitness.
• Coached players during games by implementing offensive and defensive strategies and making effective in-game adjustments.
• Fostered a positive, supportive environment that emphasized sportsmanship, discipline, respect, and teamwork.
• Evaluated player performance and provided individualized instruction and constructive feedback to support continuous improvement.
• Encouraged confidence, leadership, and accountability while helping athletes develop strong character on and off the field.
• Organized practice schedules, game-day lineups, substitutions, and player rotations to maximize participation and development.
• Communicated effectively with parents, league officials, and coaching staff regarding schedules, player progress, and team expectations.
• Ensured player safety by enforcing league rules, proper warm-up routines, and safe training techniques.
• Managed team equipment coordinated game-day logistics and maintained an organized practice environment.
• Promoted good sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect for teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials.
• Motivated young athletes to set goals, improve their performance, and enjoy the game while building lifelong skills.

Varsity Basketball Player - Sachse High School

Two-year varsity starter for the 6A Sachse High School basketball team, competing at one of Texas' highest levels of high school athletics.

• Earned Honorable Mention All-District recognition for outstanding performance, leadership, and contributions on the court.
• Named Team Most Valuable Player (MVP) during senior year for exceptional athletic performance, leadership, and commitment to team success.
• Demonstrated leadership by serving as a consistent starter, mentoring teammates, and contributing to a competitive team culture.

Collegiate Student-Athlete - Missouri Valley College - Marshall, MO

(2005-01 - 2006-12)

Competed as a collegiate student-athlete, balancing the demands of athletics with academic responsibilities while continuing to develop advanced basketball skills.

• Recognized as Track & Field MVP (Field Events), showcasing athletic versatility, discipline, and a strong competitive work ethic.
• Developed exceptional teamwork, communication, leadership, time management, and resilience through years of competitive athletics.
• Maintained a high level of commitment to training, conditioning, and performance improvement while competing at both the high school and collegiate levels.

Degree in progress - Education - Collin College

Missouri Valley College (2005-01 - 2006-12)