Student-Athlete Spotlight: Micah Derrer
Writer / Matt Keating
Photography Provided
Micah Derrer, a senior at Fishers High School, has excelled at rugby and proven to be a strong team player.
His father, Brian Derrer, says Micah has enjoyed rugby from a young age. 
“Micah has been playing rugby since fourth grade,” Brian Derrer says. “He started when we moved to Fishers from Richmond, Indiana. He started with the Mudsock flag rugby program and has loved it ever since. He enjoys all kinds of sports and outdoor activities, and has spent the last year and a half focusing on strength and speed training. Through weight and cardio training, he has markedly improved his fitness. When the weather is nice, you’re likely to find him on a disc golf course in the area.”
Micah recently had a strong rugby season.
“Last season Micah played in the second row of the pack for scrums, and was a force in the rucks that form when the teams battle for possession,” Derrer says. “Rucking over the ball has been among his favorite parts of the game. He was also part of the lineout squad. It was usually as a lifter and sometimes receiving the ball from out of bounds. He scored a few tries, and loves that every player on the rugby pitch has the opportunity to carry, pass and receive the ball. His lighter, faster body has him learning a new 
position among the backs this year – a challenge he’s excited about, even though he’ll miss some of the dirty work of the pack players.”
Micah also keeps busy with other school activities.
“Off the pitch, Micah is probably best known in his on-air role on ‘The 3:40,’ the Fishers High School video announcements show,” Derrer says. “He’s also spent some time on stage, performing in three musicals at Fishers High School. He loves the school’s media program and is finding his passion behind the camera as he learns and shapes his skill in editing, writing and producing. He also takes his faith journey seriously and is a singer/guitarist in the youth praise band at Christ the Savior Lutheran Church, where he also works with the tech and video teams and serves in the community. He has been part of Students in Action, and this year is involved in the Riley Dance Marathon Royalty.”
Micah has also been busy planning his future.
“Micah has been accepted to Ball State University, University of Cincinnati and Indiana University, and will be making his final decision in the months ahead,” Derrer says. “He plans to study media and communications.”
Derrer says he and the rest of his family couldn’t be prouder of Micah.
“His mom, sisters and I love cheering on the Mudsock ruggers, and are especially proud to see Micah growing as a leader on the team,” he says. “Before every match, the team shouts ‘Family!’ and the rugby family he shares the pitch with matters to him. He’s among the first with a kind word for an opposing player after the match, or to encourage and support his teammates.” 
