Derron Gatewood, a native of the Permian Basin, is on the brink of achieving a significant milestone in his career: winning the College Football Playoff National Championship. Currently serving as an offensive analyst at the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Gatewood and his team, the Longhorns, are gearing up for their New Year's Day Sugar Bowl face-off against the University of Washington (UW). Interestingly, UW is one of the former schools of Steve Sarkisian, Gatewood's current boss.
Gatewood shared that he chose to pursue coaching at his alma mater, Permian, driven by a desire to positively impact his players' lives. As he nears the end of his first year at UT, he has witnessed a range of experiences - from seeing the Longhorns defeat national powerhouse University of Alabama to watching the program being selected as one of four contenders for the national championship.
Gatewood's lifelong passion for UT has been instrumental in his journey. "I grew up a Longhorns fan, so being on the field with the guys is an amazing experience and a total blessing," he said.
In reflecting on his achievements thus far, Gatewood acknowledged his support system comprising his wife, children, family and friends. Their support has played a crucial role in shaping his current success.