When Merrillville High School senior Demarco Easter first heard about pole vaulting back in 8th grade, he wanted nothing to do with it.

“I actually said I would never do it a day in my life because I was too afraid,” Easter said. “Then when I got to high school Coach Coffey told me to give it a try, and I ended up loving it ever since.”

That risk ended up being a historic victory. Last June, Easter became the first pole vaulter from Merrillville to win a state championship and the first black athlete to take home the state title in that event.

Receiving his championship ring during halftime at the Merrillville football game last Friday was a moment he will never forget.

“It’s bigger than just a ring,” he said. “It’s history for me. I’ve wanted this since my freshman year, and I finally made it happen.”

Graduate Jaylen Ramsey who won the long jump event at State was honored along with Demarco.

Easter’s rise to the top didn’t come easy. After finishing 10th at state his junior year with just one place on the podium, he came back with a new mindset.

“That loss hurt,” he said. “So I came back ready to win.”

Even after losing to a Crown Point rival at Regionals and Sectionals, Easter stayed confident.

“I knew once it came time to really lock in, I could get it done,” Easter said.

He credits his success to his family, teammates, and coaches, especially Coach Lindsay.

“He’s the best pole vault coach in the world,” Easter said. “He’s always believed in me, no matter what.”

His faith also keeps him grounded. “God motivates me the most. Without him, none of this would be possible.”

As he prepares for his senior season, Easter’s training has become more intense.

“I’ve been waking up around 4:30 every morning to work out, then training again after school,” he said. “I’m eating right and staying focused.” His goal this year is to do it all again.

Balancing training, school and competition isn’t easy, but he handles it with discipline.

“It’s stressful sometimes, but time management is everything,” he said. “You’ve got to get your school work done and still show up ready to work.”

With college offers from Saginaw Valley State University, Howard University, University of Cincinnati, Eastern Illinois, and Indiana State, Demarco is ready for whatever happens next.

His message for younger athletes is to, “Never give up. It’s going to be hard, but push yourself. It will all be worth it.”