Athletic Director

Millis High School

Derek Phinney is being nominated for putting students first and elevating the Millis athletic experience with the standards and energy of a much larger program. While still teaching two classes, he uses platforms like X, Instagram, and Facebook to recognize athletes, celebrate success, and reinforce program values. With Millis’s small enrollment, he has expanded access by working within the Tri Valley League to create co-op opportunities in sports such as boys and girls hockey, gymnastics, alpine ski, and wrestling—making participation possible for students who might otherwise be left out.

Drawing on front-office and scouting experience connected to professional hockey, he brings a highly organized, professional lens to school athletics and is committed to running the program “like a Division 1 program.”