Skip Hohensee

I started following Derrike back in '93 when he drove for Cale Yarborough. He never got the respect at Yarborough Motorsports.

My friends would ask me, "Why pull for Derrike Cope? He's no good." I would reply, "Why pull for Earnhardt, because everbody else does." So you could say I like Derrike because he was an underdog.

When Derrike went to Bobby Allison Motorsports, I was happy that he was with a team that believed in him as a driver. It's been tough watching this year, with Derrike losing his ride, but then I'm excited about next season with his new ride.

I got a chance to meet Derrike and other fan club members at the Pepsi 400 this year. I was very impressed with the manner of Derrike. He is a true professional. I will support Derrike in any way I can.

I know that Derrike will have a great season for '98. I'm looking forward to meeting other Derrike Cope fans at the Charlotte race in '98.