This week, Derek Mueller was presented the Joey Ryan Heart Scholarship by his baseball coach, Stephen Stone, at Hebron High School. This is the third year JRF has funded the Heart scholarship. Each year, we have entrusted Coach Stone to find a graduating senior player on the baseball team who most embodies Joey’s heart and love for the game of baseball and for life. From our short time knowing Derek so far, and the unending praise we have heard from Coach, we know that Derek is an outstanding recipient and representative for everything Joey stood for.

During his award speech, Coach Stone mentioned Joey’s love for poker and trips to the casino. In a true God-moment, Derek realized he was wearing casino-themed dress socks. We could not have asked for a more special connection between the two.

Derek is a native to Carrollton, Texas who played outfield for Hebron Baseball. He plans to attend Navarro College in the fall where he will continue to play baseball. Derek attributes his work ethic, strong friendships, and close family to his time at Hebron Baseball. We wish Derek the very best in all of his future endeavors.

“Joey’s story has taught me that life is precious, our time can come any day so that has pushed me to make the most of the situation I have in my life. No matter the circumstance… you can impact lives.”– Derek Mueller, Class of 2016.