Derrick appeared 193 times for ATFC and scored 57 goals. As well as a midfield and forward role he spent many years from 1971 on the matchday committee. He was also vice-chairman for ATFC from 1976 for several years. As if he has not already got enough credits to his name he was even manager of the first team from 1969-71. Derrick first made his name on the same day Aber played two home games, beating Knighton 4-0 and then Llanidloes 2-0 to clinch the Mid Wales League Championship. Dawson scored a goal against Knighton, aged just 15.

In the dawn of the Dias era Dawson had to fight for his place amonst the squad as competition for places was strong. Derrick Dawson helped form an Improvements Committee during the 1967/68 season for off the field activities. They provided the first loud-speaker system at the club. Dawson's footballing determination earnt him a place as a substistute for the Welsh Cup home game versus Cardiff City in 1968/69.

Dawson and many other players capers from one game in Stourbridge can be recalled. The players were having a night out afterwards in Wolverhampton. Dawson and several other players were late for the coach back and were left stranded. They hired two taxies to get back to Aberystwyth, and somehow managed to get the club committee to foot the bill.