Jonah Artman signs soccer scholarship with East Mississippi Community College

VICKSBURG, Miss.(VDN) — Jonah Artman’s journey from early Saturday mornings on the soccer field to a record-setting football career has led him to his next opportunity on the collegiate soccer field.

The Warren Central High School standout officially signed with East Mississippi Community College on Friday, surrounded by family, teammates and coaches during a ceremony held in his honor.

“I’m excited, and one of my best friends, Luke, is going there too,” Artman said. “I hope that can be a positive foundation for both of us.”

Artman, a center midfielder under head coach Greg Head, made a strong impact on the pitch despite a delayed start to the season while finishing football. He tallied 15 goals in just 10 games and helped lead the Vikings to their third consecutive North State Championship appearance. His return to soccer came after sitting out the previous season, making his performance even more meaningful.

Soccer has long been a cornerstone in Artman’s life. He began playing at age 4, creating memories that will always stick with the young athlete.

“I’ll never forget the early Saturday mornings with VSO because those were some special times,” he said.

While soccer is his future, Artman also leaves behind an accomplished football career. A four-year starter as the Vikings’ kicker, he became the Warren County record holder in field goals during his junior season and earned a 4.5-star rating.

As a senior, Artman played a key role in Warren Central’s 2025 Class 6A state championship — the program’s first in 31 years. He finished the season going 63 of 65 on point-after attempts, 5 of 8 on field goals, recording 31 touchbacks and averaging 39.6 yards per punt. He was also selected to the Bernard Blackwell All-Star Game.

One of his most cherished memories came as a freshman, when he kicked two crucial field goals in a win over Oak Grove — a moment that foreshadowed his impact on the program in the years to come.

Despite his success on the gridiron, Artman chose to follow the sport that first captured his heart.

“I just enjoy soccer because I’ve been playing it for so long, and I’m not ready to give it up,” he said.

Though the day marked a major milestone, Artman reflected on the people who helped him reach it.

“First, I have to thank God because He’s been with me the whole time and granted me these skills,” he said. “My parents sacrificed so much for me, so I thank them as well. My brothers, sisters, teammates and coaches have all been special in this process.”

Artman, the son of Jeff and Suzanne Artman, plans to major in kinesiology at East Mississippi Community College.