By Amy Samin
Maccabi respects the decision made by Derrick, one of the most wonderful and admired people in the history of the club, and who was both icon and role model. Maccabi thanks him for the magical 17 years he spent with the club, 15 as a player and 2 as an assistant coach, during which he became one of the greatest symbols of Maccabi of all time.
Club chairman Shimon Mizrahi: “Today I had a very emotional conversation with Derrick, from which I understood that he does not intend to return for the coming season with Maccabi. We wrapped things up with positive feelings. I can only thank Derrick for his enormous contribution to Maccabi Tel Aviv, which he always made honestly and from the deepest part of his heart - as a player, a captain, and an assistant coach. I hope and believe that our paths will cross again.”
Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv’s head coach David Blatt: “Derrick is one of a kind in Maccabi. I had the pleasure of coaching him and working with him, and above all it is my great honor to be his friend. We will miss him greatly, but he will forever remain a part of Maccabi Tel Aviv.”
Derrick Sharp: “This is a tough day for me. I gave everything I had for Israel and Maccabi Tel Aviv for the last 20 years. Huge thanks to the Maccabi family and to all of the fans who showed so much love and respect to me and my family. I also want to thank my agent Yoram Yechieli, who brought me to Israel in 1993. Thank you to the late Moni Fanan and to Zvika Sherf, who brought me to Maccabi and gave me a chance. Thank you to David Blatt – the best coach I ever played for. Thank you to all of the players I played with and against, and a huge tha