Derek is originally from the suburbs of southeast Michigan. He has been involved in athletics for most of his life including track, swimming, and karate as well as hiking and weight lifting. Derek has also served 4 years in the U.S. Marines. Therapy education was received at Macomb College in Michigan, where Derek graduated #1 in his class in 2010. Derek has additional exercise and taping certifications from the Gray Institute and the ROCK tape company. Derek enjoys the field of orthopedics and athletic rehab; he believes in exercise and movement to achieve goals and improve the quality of life.