Steve Demers

PALMER, Mass. (WWLP) - Palmer's Steve Demers broke just about every rushing record at his school, as a junior. This season he's already off to a hot start.  6 touchdown's in his first game, a win against Mohawk Trail. Demers is the 22News athlete of the week.

"I stay a little patient, as soon as I get the ball and usually I can just find the hole in a second and run through it.  I try to make people miss", says Demers.

Demers ran for a Palmer record 1880 yards last season and 27 touchdowns, so opponents are used to looking at the back of his jersey. His Coach Bill Gallagher is excited for Steve's senior season.

"He had just a tremendous junior year, everyone including myself is looking forward to his senior year, because he's showed us a lot his first 2 years", says Coach Gallagher. 

Breaking records has not gone to Demers head.

Gallagher continues, "He's always thought of his teammates first. He's always looking to give them credit. He's not looking for any accolades himself, they come naturally to him."

Palmer hasn't made the playoffs since Reagan was in office. 1986 to be exact. Demers isn't worried about setting any more marks, he has that taken care of. He just hopes his legs will lead the Panthers back to the promise land.

"It's definitely more about the playoffs and the super bowl. Its my last year in the school and I want to win it for the guys, for coach, that'd be great and that's all I'm really looking for right now", says Demers.