Derek Thomson Sheely was a strong, extremely healthy, and smart 22-year-old honor student who played fullback and linebacker in pee wee, high school, and college football for nine years. Derek was a two-time academic all-conference selection in college. On August 22, 2011, during football practice for his senior season at Frostburg State University, Derek suffered a traumatic brain injury and died one week later on August 28.
To honor Derek and to prevent traumatic brain injuries from happening to other children and families, this Foundation was created to increase awareness and research of concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
Our work includes providing Concussion Awareness Kits to your team or organization; awarding the annual Derek Thomson Sheely Leadership Award and Scholarship; and offering Grief Support.
The Derek Sheely Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization aimed at increasing awareness and research of concussions and traumatic brain injuries, including supporting advancements in education, prevention, and treatment for all causes of traumatic brain injuries with a focus on youth sports.
