Na’Kayla Conner, a senior at Fairfield High School, signed her letter of intent to run track at Jacksonville College on Friday, March 7.
“I am very excited to see what my future track career looks like being a Jacksonville Jaguar,” Conner said.
Conner will be competing in the 100-meter dash and the 4x100-meter relay for the Jaguars.
When asked what made her decide to choose Jacksonville College, Conner said, “The people, staff, and most importantly the track program are all welcoming. When I went on my visit, I felt as if I was at home. I am looking forward to being with my team and learning more about the career I love the most.”
Conner plans to study Kinesiology/Sports Management. She wants to become an athletic trainer or occupational or physical therapist.
Conner said she started running track when she was just 7 years old.
“At a very young age, I found a love for track and field. As I grew older, the track was the only thing that took my mind away from everything going on around me,” Conner said. “Once I developed my speed and I learned more techniques to help me be better, I helped take my team to the State Track Meet for three years in a row. We are hoping to go back for my last year too.”
Through her high school career, she has earned District, Area, Regional, and State Champion honors. Those honors include backto- back State Champions in the 4x200m relay, two-time state silver medalist 4x100m relay, Regional Champion and State Finalist in 100m dash. Conner also set her personal record of 12.05 seconds in the 100m dash at the Texas Relays in Austin in 2024.
“We are so proud of Na’Kayla for getting the opportunity to continue her track career in college,” Coach Dani Scires said. “ Na’Kayla has been a huge part of our program and track team. We have seen Na’Kayla grow not only as a runner, but as a person. She’s been a part of Regional and State Championships, and helped her relay team break a school record. We know great things are in store for her senior year. She will definitely be missed in the upcoming seasons, but we cannot wait to see what else she will accomplish.”
Conner is also involved in the Interact Club at Fairfi eld High School.
Her parents are Antonia Slaughter, Damian Conner, Chimere Conner, and Carl Burns.
In her free time, Conner loves shopping, working out, watching netflix, and spending time with her family.
“I would like to thank everyone who supported me every step of the way,” Conner said. “I couldn’t have made it this far without a strong support system behind me. I won’t let y’all down.”
