Football: Derek Spearman Announces Commitment to UConn
Derek Spearman Announces Commitment to UConn
It’s the most wonderful time of the year: recruiting season. For the University of Connecticut, it’s about to be a great one.
On Sunday, December 5, 2021, newest member of the UConn football team, Derek Spearman, announced his commitment to the team via Twitter. Spearman will be an early enrollee.
“I committed to UConn after my official visit because of coach Mora’s vision for me and my future in the program,” Spearman said.
Spearman dates his football career back to when he was five years old. His father introduced him and his brothers to the game. He attributes his inspiration and motivation to his brothers.
“My youngest brother Jaiden is a safety in the class of 2024 and because this was our first year playing together I went hard every day to set the example and we would hold each other accountable.”
What really helped Spearman was how to overcome adversity, looking to his oldest brother, Ike.
“He was an all-state linebacker who committed to Ole Miss and after coaching changes signed with Eastern Michigan. He had two major leg injuries in college but never let it stop him.” Spearman said. “I learned a lot about this process from watching him.”
Spearman went on to discuss how Ike still went on to compete in tryouts in the NFL and play in both the AAF and XFL leagues.
When Spearman got to high school, Loomis Chaffee, their football team was 1-8. This year, the team went 9-1 and won the New England Championship. Spearman is excited to do the same thing at UConn, where the team currently stands at 1-11. Where Spearman’s high school coach, Jeff Moore, was successful, Spearman knows that new head coach, Jim L. Mora, will bring the same intensity.
“Coach Mora has been successful at every level of coaching so I know he will turn this program around and put players in positions to have success,” said Spearman. “I’m most excited to be a part of this change.”
Though Spearman’s plans shifted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he mentioned that things worked out for the better as he was able to bounce back into football and get better with his skills.
A lot of schools reached out to Spearman, such as Dartmouth and Brown, but Spearman felt a special connection with UConn.
“I committed to UConn after my official visit because of coach Mora’s vision for me and my future in the program,” Spearman said. “Also the way the whole staff is excited about the future and wanting to be a part of something great.”
Not only did Spearman commit to UConn, but so did two of his Loomis Chaffee teammates. Spearman talked about his excitement to embark on the next journey with his brothers.
This marks one of Coach Mora’s first recruits, as Mora accepted the job of UConn head coach in early November. Mora is also a former head coach of the Atlanta Falcons (2004-2006.)
“I can’t wait to make history and be a part of something special that’s happening at UConn.”
