If you follow Lincoln high school’s athletic programs closely, junior Ryan Leep is probably a familiar face. The junior can be found representing the Cougars year round as he plays soccer, basketball, and runs track in the Spring. This past fall, Leep earned a spot on the All Harrison County boys soccer team as a junior after helping the Cougars double their win margin from 2017. His junior campaign was highlighted by his two goal performance in a 2-2 tie over the date runner ups the RCB as well as helping the Cougars to a 4-1 victory over Notre Dame in the first round of the sectional playoffs. Leep also starts at forward for the Cougars on the basketball court which is off to a 2-1 start. Once basketball season ends, he’ll make the move to the track to before doing it all over again one last time as a senior. While athletics keep him busy year-round, he’s made it clear that school comes first. Leep boasts a 3.9 GPA. He was also chosen to be a member of the Student Council Executive Committee, a council where the Lincoln teachers choose the most prominent students that walk the halls. Leep is also a member of the key club. So how does Leep keep track school while also excelling in athletics as well as extra-curricular activities? “Prioritize,” Leep responded. “School comes first and then sports and clubs come after. You have to stay on top of everything and you can’t lose track.” While success seems like it came easy for Leep, he’s quick to tell you its not easy doing what he does. “It’s very hard to balance,” he continued. You have practice late, then you have to study the same night before having school the next morning. It’s tough to balance, but I’m capable of doing it.” During the interview following the Cougars’ 48-43 victory over Elkins this past Tuesday, Leep even mentioned he had to get home to prepare for an exam the next morning. While the Lincoln junior doesn’t have to make his college decision anytime soon, he’s currently leaning towards furthering his education just right up the road in Morgantown. Leep hopes to go into the medical field and become an orthopedic surgeon. He hopes attending West Virginia University will help him take the first step in accomplishing that goal.