A right-handed outfielder scouted by number of professional teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates, Collins was the starting centerfielder for Sumner High School from 1971-74. In 1974, he was the second leading hitter on the team with a .450 batting average. From 1974-77, Darrell was the starting centerfielder for Ottawa University. He was the leading base stealer on his team and led in hitting.

Collins began his baseball career with Matthews-Dickey from 1966-71. He played 11 seasons for the St. Louis Blazers semi-pro baseball team, was named Most Valuable Player in 1980 and 1983. He coached CYC baseball for Mathews-Dickey. In 1989, Collins was honored by Mathews-Dickey as a Distinguished Alumnus for his accomplishments as a member of the club and in the business world.

Darrell Collins passed away on November 7, 2025.