Driven to Greatness: Derek Johnson’s Record-Breaking Rise from Crestwood to Collegiate Golf Stardom
By: Carrie Miner Yaple | Sportzwire | May 15, 2025 | Photo courtesy Team Photo
Derek Johnson is no stranger to competition or to standing out. Fresh off his freshman year at Western New England University in Springfield, Massachusetts, Johnson is already making a name for himself as a rising star in collegiate golf. A 2024 graduate of Crestwood High School, his trajectory from high school standout to college phenom has been nothing short of impressive.
At Crestwood, Derek was a force across multiple sports. He played four years on the varsity golf team and three on the varsity basketball team. On the links, he earned Conference All-Star honors in both his junior and senior years. Perhaps more notably, he set a school record by posting the lowest scoring average in Crestwood golf history during his senior campaign, a testament to both his skill and consistency.
But Derek’s success didn’t stop at the high school level. In his first year at Western New England, he has already earned a slew of accolades that many athletes can only dream of by the end of their college careers. Competing in a highly selective environment, only five of the 12 team members qualify for each tournament. Derek managed to win four out of five spring tournaments in his freshman season.
His crowning moment came at the Worcester State Tournament, where he fired a scorching 66, setting a new program record for Western New England. That performance along with a solid season helped earn him multiple honors: Conference of New England (CNE) Co-Rookie of the Year, CNE All-Conference First Team, and Western NE Golfer of the Year.
Yet, Derek’s accomplishments extend beyond the fairway. He attends Western New England on an academic scholarship, proving that his commitment to excellence carries over into the classroom. Academics are extremely important to him. It's a reflection of the discipline and balance he brings to every aspect of his life.
His journey hasn’t been without obstacles. During his sophomore year of high school, Derek suffered a rib dislocation that sidelined him from Districts, a heartbreaking setback for any dedicated athlete. But rather than derailing his progress, it only fueled his determination. “I put a lot of time and dedication into the game of golf,” Derek shared. He practices daily, and his discipline is beginning to yield tangible results.
Looking ahead, Derek has his sights set on turning pro. “I’ve been working hard for years to achieve that goal,” he said, and if his freshman year is any indication, he’s well on his way. With a proven track record, a tireless work ethic, and a passion that’s impossible to miss, Derek Johnson is not just turning heads, he’s forging a path that many will want to follow.
