SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Mekhi Newman brings track speed to the football field at the next level.

He ran in four events at the 2025 IHSA Class 3A State Track Meet for Springfield High.

He garnered interest from colleges despite playing his first snaps of high school football as a sophomore, but it’s a sport he quickly adapted to.

“From the moment I started playing football, I felt a deep love for the game and knew I would try to pursue it,” Newman shared. “I believe I’ve made many people proud, especially my family and teammates, who have been essential to my journey.”

“He’s exactly what you want in a football player,” said Springfield High’s head football coach, Jon Hebb. “He’s receptive to coaching, holds himself and his teammates accountable,” he added. “His teammates respect him, and he shows them respect as well.” “He’s almost like an additional member of the coaching staff on the field and has been since the first game of his junior year.”

Springfield looks to get back to the playoffs again after finishing last season with a 5-5 record.