In loving memory of Derek "Coach" Sparks

Coach Sparks was part of our community for five years and through his battle with cancer, he took enormous strength from the love and support shown to him by the Lancer community. Our inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director, he was proud to be a Lancer and found joy in being a teacher and coach. His memory will live strongly in the halls of our school and within each of our hearts.

Derek, a former Washington State running back and '94 Alamo Bowl veteran founded Cleats vs Cancer in 2018 - all proceeds benefit children and families battling cancer. You can learn more about their mission here.

We are so grateful for the time we were given with Derek, and we are proud to have known him.  We are blessed for this community for the love and support they exhibited for Coach Sparks and his family. The “Sparks Strong” effort raised $10,000 to help him and his family pursue every available avenue to treat his cancer and will continue to help them for years to come.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.