14 Dec 2011 Playing his part – Conway’s Derek Walter

by Mark Oliver

Derek Walter can be found on the basketball court, the football field, the baseball field and the track. He’s also been seen at volleyball and wrestling events. Upon hearing this, one might think the Conway senior is one of the most talented and versatile young men that Conway High School has ever seen.

That’s because he is.

Walter serves as the equipment manager for Conway High School’s many athletic teams. Over the past five years, Walter has worked nearly every major tournament and athletic event at the school.

"During my seventh grade year, I was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (which causes joint swelling, stiffness and sometimes reduced motion)," Walter said. "After being diagnosed, I couldn’t play sports for a couple years. I talked to coach Barry Lueders, and he said he could use some help with the football team. I knew that I couldn’t play, so I wanted be as close to the game as I could."

When he was in ninth grade, former Conway football coach Kenny Smith approached Walter, requesting his services for the varsity football team.

“His skills were evident – he’s ‘Mr. Everything,’” Smith said. “He’s the first kid in all my years of coaching that I gave a key to the field house. We never had to worry about anything not being packed for a trip. He’s even more reliable than the assistant coaches sometimes.”

“Both of these men helped me get my start at Conway High School,” Walter said. “I have learned lots from both of these two men and look up to them highly.” 

A day in the life of the equipment manager is far from easy. A typical football Friday begins at 5 a.m. and ends after midnight. On game day, Walter works with seven other individuals to complete the many jobs that are needed, all while juggling a normal academic schedule. Players always have to have water at practice, shoulder pads and helmets need to be sized and fitted and equipment needs to be replaced if unsafe. Not only does he cater to the needs of Conway’s coaching staff, but Walter also makes sure visiting coaches and players are taken care of as well.

For basketball games, Walter is in charge of handling any special promotions the school may offer, such as a half-court shot or raffle drawing. He is also responsible for making sure there are towels, water bottles and marker boards available for the players and coaches. He’s also done everything from public address announcing to cleaning up spills on the court.

Though it’s difficult work and much is asked of him, Walter enjoys his duties thoroughly. 

“I love everything I do as an equipment manager,” Walter said. “The interaction between coaches and people in the community are probably my favorite. I have met many new people, and I take pride in everything I have done.” Not only have Walter’s services been beneficial in getting Conway’s teams ready for athletic events, they’ve also helped save the school district money.

"Two years ago, I built a 50-gallon drinker that you see on the sideline at the games. By building it from scratch, I saved about half the money."

Walter’s work has not gone unrewarded. He proudly sports two championship rings – one basketball and one baseball – and the Real Wampus Cats award, which he received this football season.

Walter, a senior, will undoubtedly be missed after this year.  “People don’t understand how important having a good manager is. You don’t miss them until they’re gone,” Smith said. 

Walter has been in contact with many universities about furthering his career as an equipment manager, including Arkansas, Tennessee, Minnesota, Kansas, Ole Miss, Texas Tech and University of Central Arkansas.