Derek Pyke's birth was registered in Leigh, Lancashire, England.
Pyke started his career in rugby union, where he was an England schoolboys international,[3] before switching codes and joining Leigh.
In January 1988, Pyke was signed by Widnes in exchange for former Great Britain captain Harry Pinner, and £50,000.
In 1990, Pyke was transferred from Widnes to Oldham for £50,000, but suffered a serious knee injury after playing only five matches for the club.
After failing to make a full recovery from the injury, Pyke announced his retirement at the end of the 1990–91 season.