Coach Derek Lee

Derek Lee brings more than two decades of playing and coaching experience to the NEA Wildcats program. A former catcher and center fielder for Alvirne High School, Derek went on to play outfield at Ripon College in Wisconsin and later at Keene State College, where he earned recognition on the Little East Conference All-Academic Team.

Derek’s coaching journey is equally impressive. He served as Player/Coach for the Chelmsford Merchants in 2005–2006, then as Head Coach of Hudson Post 48 Senior Legion (2008–2010), where his team reached the state semifinals in 2008. From 2010–2012, Derek was the inaugural Head Coach for Windham High School’s varsity baseball program, building it from the ground up and doubling the team’s win total each year—culminating in a semifinal appearance against eventual state champion Portsmouth. Along the way, he also coached multiple summer travel teams for Hudson Youth Baseball at the 8U–12U levels.

As a coach, Derek emphasizes the importance of curiosity, actionable feedback, and game-like practice situations to prepare players for real competition. He values the learning process, reminding athletes that growth comes through struggle and perseverance. He also instills leadership by reminding players that their teammates are always watching how they respond when challenges arise.

One of Derek’s proudest career moments was launching Windham High School’s baseball program and seeing it quickly grow into a playoff contender.

Outside of baseball, Derek is the Dean of Academics at Pinkerton Academy. Fun fact: he didn’t eat his first cheeseburger until he was 21!