Derek Freel is a senior at Minneapolis High School who is active in football and basketball. He grew up loving them, having played both sports since his fourth grade year. Now in his final year of competing for his high school, Freel reflects on what has meant a lot to him over the years – the Minneapolis community.

“I love representing the my home town and the support we get from town is amazing,” he said.

With basketball season right around the corner, Freel continues this mindset as he gets on the court one last time. He is confident in his team and excited to get into the season.

“I think we have a great team this year and I’m just glad I get one more year to represent Minneapolis,” he said.

When asked what goals he and his teammates have set for this season, the answer is simple, and one that they will have to work for since it is shared by all of their opponents.

“As a team, we set the goal of reaching the substate championship and hopefully making the state tournament,” he said.

Freel appreciates both the life skills and the relationships he has built through being an athlete. He is motivated to work hard on the court knowing that those principles will continue to serve him even when not playing basketball.

“I believe working hard in sports and school will help me in my future job, and just the relationships you build in sports is another reason I love playing,” he said.

After graduation, Freel plans to attend Kansas State and major in biological systems engineering.