By the time the final bell rings at Pittsburg High School, De’Marus Partee has already lived several days’ worth of accomplishments. 

He has tackled ballcarriers on Friday nights, pinned opponents on wrestling mats and cleared hurdles at record-breaking speeds. Somewhere in between, he’s earned straight A’s, volunteered with Special Olympics athletes and helped give his peers a voice as a leader in the school’s athletic community.  

That rare combination of excellence on the field, in the classroom and in the community is why the Pittsburg High senior was recently named the CapFed® True Blue® Student of the Week. 

Partee is one of the most decorated athletes to ever wear Purple Dragon colors. A three-sport standout, he is a two-time all-state linebacker in football, a two-time state runner-up in wrestling and a school record-holder and state medalist in track and field. Yet those accolades only tell part of the story. 

“All of that is important,” Pittsburg head football coach Joshua Lattimer said, “but De’Marus is so much more than just a great athlete.” 

On the football field, Partee has been a force at linebacker for the Purple Dragons the past two seasons. He finished his career with 194 total tackles, including 101 solo stops, along with 40 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, six forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. He also added an interception return for a touchdown. As a senior, he recorded 77 tackles and continued to set the tone defensively for Pittsburg. 
 

“DeMar is one of the most coachable kids I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” Lattimer said. “He is extremely gifted and talented athletically, but his intelligence, kindness and work ethic really set him apart. It’s an understatement to say he’s an unbelievable student-athlete.” 

Wrestling has been another arena where Partee has left a lasting mark. A three-time state qualifier, he reached the state finals the past two seasons, earning runner-up finishes as both a sophomore and junior. He recently broke the Pittsburg wrestling program record for pins and is closing in on the school’s all-time wins record of 147, currently held by Tyler Koehn. 

“What DeMar has accomplished in wrestling is incredible, especially knowing he didn’t start until seventh grade,” Pittsburg head wrestling coach LC Davis said. “He’s a great teammate and friend, and that’s why he was voted team captain in both football and wrestling. He’s an extremely gifted athlete, but an even better person.” 

 

Track and field, however, might be where Partee feels most at home. He holds the Pittsburg school records in both the 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles and was part of the record-setting 4x100 relay team last season. He has also earned state medals in both hurdle events. 

“My favorite sport is probably track,” Partee said. “I get to compete against so many people, but I also get to compete and push myself. Being on the record board means a lot, but every time I look at it I know I can do better.” 

Pittsburg head track coach Gary Ausemus said that relentless drive defines Partee. 

“He is never satisfied,” Ausemus said. “Big competitions bring out big-time performances in De’Marus. He’s a great leader, and teammates gravitate to him because every teammate matters to him.” 

Despite all the athletic success, Partee has never lost sight of what matters most. He maintains straight A’s and understands the demands that come with being a three-sport athlete. 

“It definitely takes a toll mentally and physically,” Partee said. “There aren’t many breaks, and you’re a student-athlete with school always being the priority. If I want to do what I want in life, I know I need good grades.” 

Away from competition, Partee gives back through the Get Busy Living Club, a student-led volunteer organization. He regularly helps with Special Olympics events and serves on the Pittsburg High School Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, which works as a bridge between athletes and administrators. 

“It means a lot to help people in need,” Partee said. “Helping with Special Olympics just makes me smile. Some of those kids are lifting more than I can — it’s impressive.” 

Looking ahead, Partee hopes to study wildlife biology or become a game warden, combining his love for learning with his passion for the outdoors. He would also like to continue his track career at the collegiate level, if the right opportunity presents itself. 

For now, Partee is focused on finishing his high school career the same way he’s approached everything else — with purpose, humility and relentless effort. 

"Being a part of a team is what it is all about," Partee said. "You build memories as an high school athlete. Yeah, you want to win a state title, but that isn’t everything."