SPORTS WRAP ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: NOAH MERCER

a man in a football uniform poses for a picture

Noah Mercer
Junior, Key West 
Football

“Noah plays with intensity and passion. He’s a great leader and a great teammate; we expect big things from him this season.” – Conchs head coach Johnny Hughes

In their preseason classic last week, Conchs offensive lineman and defensive end Noah Mercer played with a ferocity coach Johnny Hughes wishes he could bottle. 

“He has played with incredible energy since his freshman year,” Hughes said. He went on to describe Mercer’s unmatched work ethic, natural athleticism and selflessness on the field. The junior is one of the fastest athletes on the gridiron, an uncommon gift in a lineman. 

Hughes credits Mercer with more than just his athletic talent. Mercer is the type of teammate to never miss a workout and give rides to underclassmen so they make it to the weight room or practice. Additionally, Mercer is a strong student who challenges himself with the highest level of coursework and excels in the classroom and on the field. 

For his leadership, talent and willingness to do whatever it takes to give his team an edge, Key West’s Noah Mercer is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Tracy McDonald
Tracy McDonald fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.