Derek Whoolery

Biography

Derek Whoolery is entering his sixth season as the General Manager & NFL Liaison for the Lumberjacks program. Also entering his 10th year in Nacogdoches. He joined the SFA coaching staff in July of 2019 after graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University with a Sports Business Degree. Whoolery has worked his way into a more prominent role at SFA over the years. Wearing multiple hats with Recruiting, Operations, Equipment, Player Personnel and 4th down strategist. A big believer in Women in Sports, he helped build the “Jackettes” on-campus recruiting department. Over his 6 years at SFA, he has hired 15 women to help the Lumberjacks in operations, recruiting or filming. Multiple women promoted here at SFA or larger programs. Whoolery grew up in Georgetown, TX and went to Florence High School. Whoolery was chosen as a captain as a senior and had playing experience at both quarterback and safety. To get his foot in the door, he created his own college scouting service, NationalMockDrafts. After five years of work (2014-2019), he joined an NFL agency, Capital Sports Advisors, as a Client Evaluator and Recruiter. The Whoolery File Hometown: Georgetown, Texas High School: Florence College: Stephen F. Austin State University Professional Experience 2024: SFA - General Manager / NFL Liaison 2022-2023: SFA - Chief of Staff / NFL Liaison 2021: SFA - Assistant DFO & Recruiting Coordinator / NFL Liaison 2020: SFA - Director of College Scouting 2019: SFA - Volunteer Video Coordinator