Landon McPeek is ready for the next step. As he prepares to transition from eighth grade at Mercer County Junior High to high school, he’s embracing every opportunity to challenge himself—on the court, on the field, in the classroom, and in life.

A multi-sport athlete, Landon keeps his schedule packed with football, basketball, and track, making sure he’s always engaged in something, no matter the season. But when asked which sport stands out the most, he answers without hesitation: basketball. "I love the game," he says, though he admits the past season wasn’t quite what he had hoped for. "We didn’t do that well, but we’ll rebuild."

Landon played point guard this year, but he’s versatile, willing to play wherever the team needs him. As he heads into ninth grade, he expects to compete primarily at the junior varsity level, though he remains open to opportunities that may arise. "I probably won’t play varsity yet, but you never know," he says with a grin.

His track and field events reflect his versatility—the 800-meter run, shot put, and discus. It’s an uncommon mix, but one that suits his blend of endurance and strength. "I can run a little bit, and I can throw pretty well," he says matter-of-factly. He plans to continue competing in track in high school, balancing it alongside football and basketball.

Football, he acknowledges, will bring new challenges at the high school level. The competition gets tougher, the hits harder. But he’s ready. Playing tight end, he’s excited about competing under the Friday night lights for Mercer County. "I’m definitely sticking with it," he says.

But for all his athletic drive, Landon is just as serious about academics. He’s particularly drawn to math, a subject he excels in and enjoys. Already enrolled in advanced math courses, he’ll take geometry next year, setting him on a strong trajectory toward pre-calculus and beyond. His interest in STEM fields, particularly engineering, is growing, though he’s keeping his future career path open. "I kind of like engineering, but I haven’t fully decided yet," he says.

His family has played a significant role in shaping his mindset. His father’s work ethic and his older brother’s dedication to basketball have both served as inspiration. "My dad has always been a hard worker. He’s accomplished a lot, and I’ve always looked up to him," Landon says. His older brother, Brady, a standout varsity basketball player as a sophomore, has set a high bar. "He puts in a lot of work, and that’s something I respect."

That same drive and discipline have also made Landon a natural leader. Whether it’s in sports or the classroom, his peers look to him. "Most of the time, I end up in leadership roles," he says. "People come to me when they need help, and I like being someone they can count on."

Landon’s journey through Mercer County Schools has been filled with positive experiences, and as he looks ahead to high school, he reflects on the teachers and environment that have shaped him. "I think what I’ll remember most is how understanding and supportive the teachers are," he says. "It’s been a great place to grow up."

Beyond athletics and academics, Landon is also a musician, playing the tenor saxophone in the school band. He started in sixth grade and plans to continue through high school. "It’s a tough instrument, but I enjoy it," he says.

As he prepares to cross the bridge into high school, Landon is determined to challenge himself. "If you want to do something, it’s not always going to be easy," he says. "But that’s what makes it worth it."

With his work ethic, leadership, and well-rounded skill set, there’s no doubt that Landon McPeek will make an impact wherever he goes next.