By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

The students at Garyville-Mt. Airy Math and Science Magnet School shouted “SURPRISE!” at Derron Thomas as he entered the school’s cafeteria Thursday afternoon.

Thomas, indeed, was the man of the hour.

The former East St. John star running back and Miami Hurricane had reported to work that morning for his final day on the job as a physical education teacher not knowing what awaited him.

Thomas recently signed a contract to play in the Austrian Football League for the Zagreb Patriots of Croatia and is leaving to begin his professional career there.

But before his exit, many of his students and fellow faculty assembled to wish him well.

A group of eighth grade girls sang a goodbye song. A DVD of his career highlights from little league to his collegiate career was on display. And everyone enjoyed snacks, cake and drinks.

“It’s a good feeling,” said Thomas. “I appreciate these kids, and I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to teach them. I cherish all of them, and the staff here, Miss Joseph (the school’s principal) … I’ll never forget my time here.”

Thomas is best known locally for his explosive play with the East St. John Wildcats under then-coach Larry Dauterive and alongside quarterback Ryan Perrilloux. While a member of the Wildcats, Thomas piled up one of the most impressive individual performances by a prep player of all time, rushing for 378 yards and racking up six touchdowns in an overtime loss to Hahnville.

“It was one of my best individual performances, though since it came in a loss it isn’t as great a memory as it could be,” said Thomas. “It wasn’t just about me, but our offensive line, our quarterback, our wide receivers all helped make that possible.”

He is slated to leave on Feb. 16 for Croatia. Zagreb begins exhibition play on March 13 and its regular season kicks off on April 19.

Thomas hasn’t played football since December of 2008. But he’s been training in Kenner, and when he learned of the opportunity to play overseas, he began exploring.

“I actually learned about it from a guy on Facebook,” said Thomas. “He told me of a website, Europlayers.com. I didn’t know they played football (in Croatia) but I put my video up, got them my information. And that got the ball rolling.”

Thomas said he feels like he’s ready to return to action.

“Ryan (Perrilloux) and I work out together, and I’ve been training at the Duke Academy in Kenner. I feel like I’m at the weight I need to be at and that I still have my speed and agility.”

Fellow P.E. teacher Debbie Perkins said the school will miss Thomas.

“We’re mixed about it,” she said. “We’ll miss him. We need more like him, who look to inspire young men, who stress academic achievement and improving grades as opposed to just being football player or basketball players.

“At the same time though, we’re so happy to see him continue with his dream, and we hope it inspires other young people to do the same. “