For West Pine eighth-grader Landon Graham, wrestling is more than just a sport; it’s a place where discipline, creativity, and character all come together.
Graham began wrestling in sixth grade with the Wildcat Wrestling Club, where he quickly fell in love with the sport. What drew him in wasn’t just the competition, but the physical and mental challenge that wrestling demands.
“I love the creativity and the physicality of the sport,” Landon said.
As he prepares to begin his season in the Moore-Lee Conference, Landon is excited not only to compete but to help the younger wrestlers on his team grow and improve.
“I’m excited to help and watch the new and younger wrestlers,” he said. “And, of course, I want to win.”
Last season, Landon posted a 4–1 record, a strong showing that reflects his commitment to the sport. In addition to his school team, he also competes with the N.C. Wrestling Factory, a club program that has given him some of his favorite wrestling memories.
“We travel, and my favorite trip was when we went to wrestle in Virginia,” he said. “Club wrestling can be more competitive sometimes because you’re wrestling people from all over.”
While wrestling is his primary sport, Landon also enjoys playing football and basketball casually with friends. His focus remains on wrestling, and he hopes to continue his career at Pinecrest next year.
Off the mat, Landon excels in the classroom. He is a straight-A student and is actively involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His faith plays a central role in his life, and he is heavily involved in his church and youth group.
After high school, Landon has big plans.
“I want to help my dad in his business and travel the world helping people and spreading the word of Jesus,” he said.
Landon’s talents extend well beyond athletics. He is also an accomplished musician, playing the cello. Last year, he earned first chair All-County honors and received All-Regional recognition.
“I love playing because of the versatility the cello has,” he said. “It can be the foundation of a song, playing the melody, or it can have leads.”
In his free time, Landon enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading his Bible, and playing video games. When asked about his inspiration, his answer was clear.
“Jesus, my Mom and Dad, who were both talented athletes, and my Grandpa,” he said.
Whether competing on the mat, playing music, or serving through his faith, Landon strives to live with purpose.
“Whether it’s on the mat or on a youth trip, I want to spread love and kindness like Jesus did,” he said.
If you want to nominate a middle or high school student-athlete for this series, please email [email protected].
~Article by Curtis Self, a Sandhills Sentinel reporter and owner of Moore Daily Sports. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
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