Student-Athlete Spotlight: Johnny "Mack" Burton

Johnny “Mack” Burton, a junior at North Moore High School, has overcome loss, disappointment, and injury. Despite the obstacles he faces on and off the course, he strives to excel. 

A former football player who suffered a knee injury last season, Mack had to find another sport. This is his first year running cross-country.

“I love football,” said Mack. “I miss it. I played it most of my life. I’m still recovering from the injury but plan to play football and run cross-country next year.” 

Mack’s cross-country coach said he’s a dedicated athlete. 

“Mack, or as we call him Mack Attack, is one of the hardest workers on the team,” said Coach Karolyn Emore. “He shows up early, stays late, will lift weights or do pushups any time he can, and gives 100% with every step.

“Mack ran the Farmer’s Day 5K, a community event in Robbins, where he placed second in his age group. At the first high school meet against Seaforth, Mack ran an impressive 26:57 on the hilly course. Not only does Mack display perseverance and drive in running, he excels in the classroom.” 

Mack lost his older brother and grandmother in 2020. Despite the loss of close loved ones, he continues to strive with his studies. Mack has a GPA 4.12 in AP classes and classes at Sandhills Community College and is also in the BETA Club. 

“I plan to attend Sandhills Community College and transfer to a four-year school,” said Mack. “I want to get my degree in business administration, so I can start my own record label.” 

Mack has a love for rap and hip hop music. When there is spare time from school, sports, a part-time job, and volunteering at a local food bank on Saturdays, he loves to hang out with friends, workout, read, and write. 

Mack’s mother is proud of her son’s accomplishments.

“As his mom, I am very proud of my son,” said Tammy Burton. “He is a very good student, and I’m just so proud to call him my son. He works so hard at school, and I just love him so much. I couldn’t be prouder. He lost his grandma and older brother a few years ago. I wish they were here to share this with him.”

Mack’s coach said he is a good representative of North Moore High School.

“Mack is a true embodiment of the North Moore school motto; ‘The Mustang Way! Respect, Responsibility, Integrity.’ He is an honor to coach, and I look forward to watching him grow as a student-athlete.”

To nominate a student-athlete to be featured in this series, please email [email protected].

Sandhills_Sentinel~Article and photo by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Curtis Self.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email