News Summary

The Elgin community bids farewell to Coach Deryn Carter of Larkin High School’s boys basketball team, who has stepped down after 16 impactful years. Carter’s legacy includes guiding the Royals to significant achievements, such as multiple championships and cultivating character in his players. A family man with a rich sports background, he leaves behind a profound influence on both the team and the community. His contributions and dedication will be long remembered as he departs from his coaching role.

Elgin Bids Farewell to Beloved Coach Deryn Carter

Elgin, the city known for its lively sports spirit, is witnessing a touching moment as Deryn Carter, the head coach of Larkin High School’s boys basketball team, recently announced his decision to step down after a fulfilling 16-year journey. His departure leaves a bittersweet feeling among the players, parents, and the entire community that rallied behind their coach over the years.

A Legacy Built on Determination and Success

Throughout his time at Larkin, Carter has made an indelible mark, guiding the Royals to numerous achievements. The height of his coaching career came during the 2017-2018 season, when he led the team to a remarkable 4th place finish in the Class 4A state tournament. This success was just a part of the broader story, as Carter amassed a total of 240 wins, which included winning 5 regional championships and 2 sectional titles.

What sets Carter apart is not just the wins and trophies, but his deep-rooted passion for the game and genuine desire to shape his players into better individuals. His coaching philosophy revolved around developing character and skills that extend beyond the basketball court. Under his influence, many young athletes found not just mentors, but role models who showed them how to balance sportsmanship with daily life challenges.

A Family of Athletes

Carter himself comes from a rich lineage of sports enthusiasts in Elgin. His father, Deryl, was a basketball star at North Central College, while his mother, Marlene, was known for her fastpitch softball prowess. Growing up in a family that prioritized athletics, it was only natural for Carter to pursue a career in the sport he loves.

Even during his high school days, he made waves as a three-year varsity player, achieving all-Upstate Eight Conference honors and leaving a legacy by scoring an impressive 1,099 career points. Reflecting on his collegiate experience, he took his talent to four different colleges, gracing courts at institutions like St. Louis University and the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Guiding the Next Generation

As an assistant coach for six years, Carter learned the ropes before stepping into the role of head coach in 2009. His aimed wasn’t merely to win games; it was to help students grow. His ambitious vision culminated in notable accomplishments, including coaching standout players like Damari Wheeler-Thomas, who helped secure a remarkable 31-4 season in the 2021-2022 school year.

One of the most cherished moments for Carter was coaching his daughter, Mia, who shone brightly and earned all-conference honors. He also cherishes his time coaching his nephew, Mac Irvin, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity while nurturing talent.

Looking Ahead

As the news of Carter’s resignation spreads, there’s an unmistakable atmosphere of gratitude in Elgin. Students and staff alike are thankful for his dedication to the sport and his unwavering support for his players. With nine winning seasons under his belt, including five seasons where the team went over 20 wins, Carter leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations. His contributions to Larkin will forever be remembered by the community.

While Carter may be stepping away from coaching, his influence on these young athletes will undoubtedly continue. Basketball may remain a passion, but the lessons learned on the court will echo in the hearts of his players for years to come. As the community gathers to celebrate his career, one thing is for sure: Coach Carter has left an everlasting imprint on the Larkin Royals and will always be regarded as part of the family.

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