On the basketball court and football field, as well as everyday life, McKade Peery works hard to set the example for others to follow that will lead to success.

“Leadership is something that is earned, not given, and that includes accepting responsibility for the bad as well as the good things that happen,” replied the point guard for the Stigler Panthers with a voice of confidence.

“In sports and in life, becoming a leader starts with hard work and setting the example by your actions not just by what you say.”

Peery carries over his success in the classroom where he posts a 3.98 grade point average to provide a cerebral and competitive effort to help his teams win.

“McKade is truly a “team-first” player who is willing to do anything to help the team win,” said Stigler boys’ coach Chris Parker. “He continues the same approach in everything he does.”

Respected by his teammates, Peery willingly gives his teammates props for making him a better athlete and a better person.

“Will Rose is the one person that has left the biggest impression on me because he will do anything to win,” Peery said.

The opportunity to play multiple sports is a reward according to Peery, who was the Panthers’ quarterback last fall on the gridiron.

“Football has taught me about the importance of mental and physical toughness, and baseball helps my eye-hand coordination,” he said. “All three teach you how to overcome adversity and find a way to win.”

Sports is a major part of the DNA that makes Peery a winner in all walks of life, while claiming the advice of Panthers’ football coach Cade Shearwood as a personal inspiration every day.

“Coach reminds us, ‘Everything you do, do it with all your heart, never halfway do something. Always give your all,’” Peery quoted his coach. “It’s important to me because I have learned to do that and it has helped me tremendously inside and outside of sports.”

At the same time, the examples set by Peery continue to inspire everyone he meets every day.