Cornell University Athletics

As a Senior (2016)
In his final season for the Big Red, Mekhaldi made two appearances, playing 13 minutes against Yale on Oct. 16 and then putting in 18 minutes against Columbia on Nov. 12. 

As a Junior (2015)
Mekhaldi continued to use his speed to his advantage as one of the team’s rotating forwards in 2015. He saw time in nine contests, starting four, and posted seven shots over 231 minutes. He was integral in helping the Big Red to its first win of the season, a 2-1 overtime decision over Air Force, logging 49 minutes and taking two shots, including one on goal.

As a Sophomore (2014)
Mekhaldi appeared in nine contests, which included five starts, in his debut season for the Big Red. He made his debut on Sept. 19 in Cornell’s 1-0 victory over Siena in the opening game of the CU Inaria Classic. He made his first collegiate start in Cornell’s 1-0 loss to Penn. Mekhaldi provided pace as a speed option to wear down opposing defenses in his first season. He finished the year with 131 minutes played and one shot attempt.

Before Cornell
Mekhaldi was a standout soccer player at Troy, helping the team to unprecedented success. He earned Big Ten first team all-star honors in both his junior and senior seasons. During his senior year he captained Troy to its first ever sectional title. He led the Big Ten section, scoring 16 goals and adding ten assists en route to Class A New York State first team all-star recognition. Mekhaldi played his club soccer for New York Elite FC, earning all-event recognition as a top player at both the 2012 Jefferson Cup and the 2012 Bethesda Invitational.

Personal
Rafik Mekhaldi is the son of Idris and Souad Mekhaldi. He also has a younger sister, Nada.