New Ulm Sports Central - Preserving and Sharing New Ulm Area Sports History

Derek Riley ran wild as a Wabasso Rabbit, compiling 4,927 yards to rank 16th on Minnesota's all-time career high school football rushing list. He played against New Ulm football teams over the last few years.

While Division I teams such as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and South Dakota State University showed interest in Riley during the recruiting process, the 6-foot running back chose to stay close to home and signed a National Letter of Intent Wednesday to play at Southwest Minnesota State University.

Riley's brother Dan is a cornerback for the Mustangs and redshirted during the 2009 season.

"I think it's a great choice for (Derek)," Wabasso head coach Joe Kemp said. "His brother Dan already plays there and I like what (head coach Eric Eidsness) has done, improving the team each year he's been there.

Derek Riley amassed 1,823 yards rushing and 21 touchdowns during his senior season as he helped lead Wabasso to a 7-3 record. He was named to the Tomahawk All-Conference team, was chosen All-State honorable mention and was named to the Independent All-Area Team.

Although the Rabbits don't dress freshmen, Derek Riley was an exception to the rule and ran for more than 300 yards his freshman season.

Riley isn't sure whether he will be redshirted his first year or not, but Kemp said he expects his former back to make a big impact on the field whenever it is that he starts seeing playing time.