University of North Carolina Athletics
Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month Spotlight: Derek Lippert
October 11, 2022 | Men's Soccer
Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is an annual celebration of citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The event commemorates the history, culture and contributions of the Latinx and Hispanic communities.
During the final week of the month-long celebration, University of North Carolina men's soccer will be spotlighting its players who are part of the Latinx and Hispanic communities while honoring how our diversity makes us stronger – on and off the pitch.
Meet Derek Lippert
Derek Lippert is a freshman defender from Mexico City, Mexico. Both of his parents, Gabriela Andonegui and Christian Lippert, were born in Mexico City as well. He also holds dual citizenship in Germany.
What does Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month mean to you?
The month means celebrating the culture and traditions that are special to us, which are unique compared to others around the world. It has a direct connection to our ancestors and those who came before us. It means everything from traditional clothing, food, music and more.
Why is it important to celebrate Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month?
This month allows people to learn about and celebrate traditions that are part of daily life for us. Especially for the Latino community, these traditions aren't just a one-time thing. We carry on those traditions daily, which is part of what makes it so unique.
In what ways do you celebrate your culture year-round?
Everything – food, music, clothing, religion. We've developed our own traditions that we celebrate not just year-round, but daily. In Mexico, food is one of the biggest daily traditions and celebrations of the culture. It's the best way to connect to the culture.
How do you stay connected to your culture and heritage?
Family and the strong sense of community is the biggest way I stay connected. Another way I stay connected, especially now that I'm in North Carolina, is through music. My favorite Mexican artists are Reik and Marcos Menchaca, and I listen to music from other Hispanic countries, too.
How has your Hispanic/Latinx upbringing influenced your life?
It influences how other people see me, but it's part of my identity. There is such a strong emphasis on family, which is really important in this culture. Not just my close family like my parents and siblings, but also my extended family. Connections are strong and there's absolutely a great sense of community.
Stay up to date with Carolina men's soccer by following the Tar Heels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
During the final week of the month-long celebration, University of North Carolina men's soccer will be spotlighting its players who are part of the Latinx and Hispanic communities while honoring how our diversity makes us stronger – on and off the pitch.
Meet Derek Lippert
Derek Lippert is a freshman defender from Mexico City, Mexico. Both of his parents, Gabriela Andonegui and Christian Lippert, were born in Mexico City as well. He also holds dual citizenship in Germany.
What does Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month mean to you?
The month means celebrating the culture and traditions that are special to us, which are unique compared to others around the world. It has a direct connection to our ancestors and those who came before us. It means everything from traditional clothing, food, music and more.
Why is it important to celebrate Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month?
This month allows people to learn about and celebrate traditions that are part of daily life for us. Especially for the Latino community, these traditions aren't just a one-time thing. We carry on those traditions daily, which is part of what makes it so unique.
In what ways do you celebrate your culture year-round?
Everything – food, music, clothing, religion. We've developed our own traditions that we celebrate not just year-round, but daily. In Mexico, food is one of the biggest daily traditions and celebrations of the culture. It's the best way to connect to the culture.
How do you stay connected to your culture and heritage?
Family and the strong sense of community is the biggest way I stay connected. Another way I stay connected, especially now that I'm in North Carolina, is through music. My favorite Mexican artists are Reik and Marcos Menchaca, and I listen to music from other Hispanic countries, too.
How has your Hispanic/Latinx upbringing influenced your life?
It influences how other people see me, but it's part of my identity. There is such a strong emphasis on family, which is really important in this culture. Not just my close family like my parents and siblings, but also my extended family. Connections are strong and there's absolutely a great sense of community.
Stay up to date with Carolina men's soccer by following the Tar Heels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Players Mentioned
D
/ Men's SoccerTuesday, June 23
Sunday, June 21
Sunday, June 21
Saturday, June 20