By Blake Chadwick

Those around the Wichita area are accustomed to Derby’s dominance on the football field. But with the loss of one of the best Panthers in history – running back Dylan Edwards, who is at Colorado – it raises some questions as to whether the Panthers’ success will continue. Certainly Derby has plenty of talent returning, including senior Demariae Baker. He has been a key part of the Panthers’ defensive secondary since he was a sophomore, and now in his final season, he is ready to take his team back to Emporia in November.

The two-year starter is a long and rangy defensive back who was named to numerous all-class teams and was named first-team all-AVCTL I last season after an excellent regular season as one of the leaders of the Derby defense. “What makes me most excited about this season is my comeback from my injury,” Baker said. Adversity hit Baker in the first week of the playoffs when his season ended after he tore his ACL and meniscus, while also spraining his MCL. The loss of Baker hurt the Panthers and their defense down the road, ultimately leading to a playoff loss to Manhattan, the eventual Class 6A state champion. After an injury like Baker suffered, all he wants to do is to return to the high-level football he was playing at.

“In the offseason, I have been getting my knee ready and my head ready,” Baker said. “I have also been working out with my speed trainer so I can hopefully get all my speed back.” Baker has enjoyed the process as he continues to improve with some new and different techniques for his skill development. The incoming senior knows that he wants to finish his Derby Panther career with a bang. “I want to have the most interceptions and pass breakups on the team, and I want to get back to state,” Baker said.

Photo Credit Jared Weinman