Denmark Technical College sophomore JaqCorey Melton has made his way to Louisiana to compete in the high jump competition at the NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field Championships. The championships, which conclude on May 18, are hosted by the University of Louisiana Monroe. Over 800 athletes from dozens of teams will compete to bring home honors in decathlon, heptathlon, running and field events.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to represent Denmark Tech at the NJCAA Division I Championships. Being around so much talent is extremely motivating and I can’t wait to get out there and give it my all.” said Melton.
Melton also stated he wanted to prove to his younger siblings that anything is possible, no matter where you come from or what you’ve been through.
Melton, who initially earned a national qualification for the high jump at the Clark Atlanta meet, where he took first place, enters the championships seeded 10th nationally, up from top 15 placement last season. Later in the season, he earned a second qualification with a personal record jump of 6′ 7.75″, at the Norfolk State meet.
“Melton is an exceptional athlete. He’s naturally gifted and consistent, but also knows how to put in the hard work it takes to be successful in this challenging sport. He’s shown tremendous growth over the last two seasons,” said Derrick Wilmore, Denmark Tech head track & field coach.
Melton’s qualification marks the first appearance of Denmark Tech in the track nationals since the establishment of the team in 2022, after an over-fifty-year hiatus.
“Denmark Tech has a proud history of providing both exemplary educational and athletic opportunities to students. Offering a well-rounded athletics program at the junior college level allows students to continue in the sports they have grown to love, while preparing to head into industry or continue their educational journey at a four-year institution,” said James Hill, DTC Athletic Director,
Melton, who initially was drawn to DTC as a basketball recruit, has been a standout on the track and field team for the last two years, most recently coming in first or second in five of the last six meets.
“It has been a joy to watch Melton thrive on the track. He puts his heart and soul into every practice and every meet . His strong work ethic has paid dividends,” said Andrea Jamison, assistant track & field coach at Denmark Tech.
Melton takes to the track to compete in the high jump Friday, May 17, at 12:00 p.m.
“The first time I saw Melton on the track, I knew he was going to be exceptional. He has the drive and determination it takes to win,” said Willie L. Todd Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO of Denmark Technical College. “I’m excited to see him compete, but, to us, he’s already a champion.”
