Coach Clarke grew up in Tampa playing at Plant High School. Clarke was drafted in the 33rd round of the 1999 MLB draft but decided to play college baseball at South Florida CC. After freshman year was drafted again in the 35th round but chose to return for his sophomore year of college. Following his sophomore year Coach Clarke signed with Colorado Rockies MLB/Minor League Teams from 2001-2008. Darren Clarke made his MLB debut in May of 2007.

After many injuries Darren retired in 2008 and then entered EMT/Fire school. Coach Clarke is currently a local Paramedic/Firefighter to the Palm Beach County area.

Beside coaching 9U FL Elite, Coach Clarke is also the Varsity Pitching Coach at The Benjamin School.