Hall of Honor
Information as of 2000: Deryl McKinnerney attended Weslaco Texas High School, graduating in 1983 having been honored at All-district level as a linebacker. His skills in team roping (Texas Rodeo Youth Division) were also recognized.
During his years at MSC (1983-1986) Deryl was a four-year starter at linebacker and the only freshman to start. He led the Mavericks in tackles three of his four seasons. He was the leading tackler in the RMAC during his junior and senior years. He was a unanimous two-time first-team All-Conference selection in 1985 and 1986 and second-team All-Conference selection in 1984 as a sophomore. He was selected Outstanding defensive Player in the Maverick's 1985 NAIA national playoff game vs. Hillsdale College. Deryl was chosen RMAC player of the Week five times as a junior and four times as a senior.
"Deryl was without a doubt one of the finest football players I have ever coached. As a four-year starter at linebacker he was a player that led by example" states Deryl's coach, Bob Cortese. "Even as a freshman, his ability to lead the defense was uncommon." Sheldon Keresy, Deryl's assistant football coach, quotes, "Mesa football experienced great success during the time Deryl played there and his personal honors are a matter of record. It is sometimes hard to single out individual players who played on great teams, but there is no doubt in my mind that Deryl was one of the primary shapers of the success we experienced."
After graduating from Mesa State College, Deryl entered the sales profession and from 1996-2000 managed the day-to-day operation of a 2100-acre ranch in Hondo, Texas. They now live in the Denver area. He and his wife, Jill, have two children, Taylor and Nathan.
