Derek and TJ Watt inducted into Pewaukee HS Hall of Fame in emotional ceremony

PEWAUKEE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- On Friday night the storied Pewaukee High School athletic program added two famous names to its Hall of Fame.

NFL stars Derek and TJ Watt joined their legendary brother, JJ, when their football jersey numbers were retired.

Derek and TJ long ago reached the peak of their profession, but it was clear Friday's Hall of Fame induction ceremony was different from many of the accolades they had already earned.

In emotional speeches, both brothers made sure to tell the hundreds of fans who gathered to cheer them on why this night was special.

Jeff Behrens, Pewaukee High School's Athletics and Activities Director, said, "Ladies and gentlemen, the jerseys are retired."

It was a happy homecoming for the heroes.

Behrens told the crowd, "Their success on the field and in life is a testament to their character, their dedication, and their unwavering spirit."

They were joined by their families, parents John and Connie, and fellow Pewaukee Hall of Famer and Wisconsin athletic director Chris McIntosh.

Derek Watt is still the holder of the school's single season rushing record.

He told the crowd, "I don't take this for granted. I hope that my journey has, and will, inspire future generations to fulfill their dreams, as well."

Derek recalled playing pickup games behind the bleachers as a kid. He then thanked his teachers and coaches, family and friends, and his grandfather, choking up as he said, "I just know that he's looking down on us tonight with the biggest smile on his face."

Then it was TJ's turn, the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

TJ thanked his parents for their support, saying, "I thought it was normal that we had five egg omelets waiting for us before school every day. It's not."

And he thanked the community, crediting it for helping raise the brothers and instilling in them values to live by.

TJ said, "This isn't just our night. This isn't just Derek and me up here. It isn't just about us. If you think I got myself here, you're kidding yourself."

And before a surprise autograph session, he had a message for the kids: "Let us be the blueprint for you. That it is possible. Because at the end of the day, we're all just kids from Pewaukee, and if we made it, so can you. Go Pirates, thank you."

Oldest brother JJ Watt was unable to attend the ceremony because of a prior engagement. But in their remarks, both Derek and TJ thanked him for setting a great example.