Toni-Ann Derby - Sun Belt Conference

Twitter
@ToniAnnSDerby1

Why did you join MOAA?
I joined MOAA to be around a diverse group of sports professionals, who I can learn from and share ideas with.

Name something about you most people don't know.
When I was 14, I joined the youth choir at my church. That's how I spent my Friday nights in high school, with people who were 10+ years older than I was. I've always enjoyed going to church. I have a church family in Jamaica, New York and now in Louisiana.

If you hadn't chosen a profession in athletics, what would your profession be?
I probably would have gone into law. Before I moved to the United States, I was accepted into the pre-law program at the University of the West Indies. I liked gathering information and proving a point. I was very good at observing people and noticing when things didn't add up.

What is one of the greatest aspects of being involved in athletics?
Its sport fans serving other sport fans and student-athletes. I'm watching other tournaments/games to get new ideas, so I can make student-athletes and the fans, have a memorable time at our tournaments.

What is the theme song playing in your head when you have to get something tough done?
"This is my Fight Song" by Rachel Platten; "My power's turned on, starting right now I'll be strong… 'cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me." Or "Victory" by Tye Tribbett; "There is no failure, our God can never loose and that same power, it now belongs to you."

If you could spend one day with a sports figure, dead or alive, who would it be? Why?
I would love to spend the day with Maria Taylor. Just to sit with her and pick her brain. I love her charismatic personality on and off the air. And I admire the way she uses her experience and platform to help others who are aspiring to work in the sports industry.

What is your favorite movie? Why?
My favorite movie is "Facing the Giants". It's about a football coach who teaches his team about faith, hard work, persistence and patience, which ultimately impacts the entire school for the better. It reminds me that I should never give up; I should not stop until I've reached my goal. Because, you don't stop when you're tired, you stop when you're finished. It has taught me that there is a difference between giving my best, and giving my very best. The difference is, your mind telling your body it has the extra strength to do more. And more importantly, whether things are going good or bad, I should always pray, thank God for my blessings and have faith in Him.

What is the last thing someone has come back and thanked you for professionally?
I was working at a law firm and someone asked me to read their cover letter and give feedback. She was grateful that I took the time to sit with her and go through every line with her.

Best thing your mentor told you?
Always be humble, never feel that you are better than anyone. Not even the people on the street. Be kind to everyone. And always trust in God. Life is filled with hurdles, you may stumble and fall, and that is fine, but do not stay down, get up and keep moving forward. Lastly, remember to always lend a helping hand.

Fill in the blank: I wished I would have_______.
Gone sky diving and rocky mountain climbing.