“My daughters, Bella Bella Story, Hannah and Bella. The 48-year old said that this day “puts an exclamation mark on my playing career,” which was her first dream. You know what? Through you, and with you, I am living another life.

Although his daughters—who were born after Derek’s 2014 retirement in 2017 and 2019, respectively—didn’t get to see their dad on the field, Derek shared that he’s looking forward to telling his children the important lessons he learned throughout his career.

“Bella and Story: I wanted you to understand that my father was not perfect. “I’ve made my share of mistakes both on and off-the field,” he said. “You know what, my only regret in my career is that I wasn’t able to share it all with you.”