Darrick Woods, a compassionate, caring, family man, is also a ruthless, die-hard, life-long Tar Heel fan. His wife, Chante’ Woods, whom he met at UNC Hospitals where they were both nurses, says no matter what they’re doing, there’s sure to be a game on or a score being checked. But where does a guy like Darrick find a place to combine his care with his love of Carolina blue? On the court of course, guarding the head coach of the UNC men’s basketball team, Roy Williams.
During the day, Darrick is a nurse manager on the emergency services transitions unit. But since 1993, Darrick’s off-hours have led him to the Dean Dome, where he serves on the security detail for Carolina basketball. Starting with Dean Smith, then Bill Guthridge, Matt Doherty and now Roy Williams, Darrick has been security for two hall of fame coaches. His position used to be filled by uniformed officers, but according to Darrick, Dean Smith wasn’t comfortable with that image and the way it came across, so they made the switch to plain-clothes security, which is where Darrick got his start 21 years ago.
“Darrick is security, but he is also my security blanket,” Coach Williams said. “Darrick is a guy that doesn’t just do a job. It’s a passion, it’s a life with him. Every time I see him it brings a warm feeling and brings a smile to your face, and that’s a pretty good legacy to have.”
Darrick is a guy that doesn’t just do a job. It’s a passion, it’s a life with him. Every time I see him it brings a warm feeling and brings a smile to your face, and that’s a pretty good legacy to have.
From dealing with eager fans running onto the court to escorting the coach back and forth from the locker room, Darrick is there for Coach Williams through the good and bad of every season. And while he appears silent and stoic, on the inside he’s cheering for his team as they delight in a win or sink with a loss. Describing his role, Darrick says, “It’s a no-brainer for me. I graduated from UNC, and I love UNC Health Care. It’s just like a perfect fit, and like a dream come true.”
We think the story of Darrick Woods is a story any Tar Heel fan won’t want to miss. Check out the story and then share it with your friends so everyone can see the man who keeps our coach safe on game day. Go Heels!