Proof that Derleth, a former Michigan football tackle, catches on quickly is illustrated by his 133 feet 7-inch cast of the discus which brought him the all-time Seahawk mark in the event.

While Derleth was serving in the Navy, the Detroit Lions selected him as a late pick in the 29th round of the 1944 NFL draft.

[10] Upon being placed on inactive status by the Navy in October 1945, Derleth elected to return to the University of Michigan rather than play professional football.

The Marquette, Mich., lineman immediately was issued a uniform and put in considerable time at the right guard spot during scrimmage.

The former aviation cadet said he was in 'pretty good' physical shape and was an inch taller and about 14 pounds heavier than the last time he played for Michigan.

[10] He was later recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame on the honor roll of more than 1,000 NFL personnel to serve in the military during World War II.