Northwest’s Zae’Ja Davis Breaks Barriers and Sets Tone for Women’s Golf
After finishing her high school golf career at DeSoto Central High School, Zae’Ja Davis believed her competitive days were over. A call inviting her to try out for a new team at Northwest Mississippi Community College in 2024 changed that perspective, she said.
Hailing from Southaven, Davis recalled, “When I first started playing, I didn’t think I would be in this situation, playing college golf. I was just doing my day-to-day basics, and I got a call from the coach saying they wanted us to try out and be part of the team. I found that opportunity a great one.”
Women’s golf in Mississippi at the junior college level was still developing, with only a few teams across the state. Davis has been a pioneer, not only as one of the first members of the Rangers but also as the first African American female golfer at the NJCAA level from a Mississippi junior college to compete in a tournament.
She acknowledged the pressures that come with her role, saying, “The pressure is all on us. It’s kind of hard for women because we don’t always get the same respect as men.”
Head coach Adam Payne praised her growth and leadership. “Zae’Ja has grown so much as a player, person, and leader. She has helped build something that will last at Northwest. I couldn’t ask for more. She’s always the first to load the van, attends workouts, and maintains strong grades.”
The team faced instability with three coaching changes in its first season, but under Payne’s leadership, the Rangers qualified for the national tournament. Davis credited the coaching stability for her development, noting, “The first year was tough. We didn’t get the coaching we needed, but when Coach Payne arrived, we changed as a team and improved daily.”
Family support played a role in her progress. Her sister, Carinton, joined the team, providing comfort and motivation. “It was nice to have someone I knew by my side,” Davis said. “We competed and supported each other, which helped us grow.”
Though her sister isn’t on the team this season, Davis continues to receive encouragement from her family. “My mom, dad, and sister support me through everything,” she said. “They push me and help me get the gear I need. I love them for that.”
With the stability of new coaching and family backing, Davis’s sophomore season has seen significant improvement. Her scoring average dropped from 107.6 as a freshman to consistently breaking into the 90s this year. Her performance at the national tournament, with all three rounds at 95 or better, positions her in the top half of the field.
This success has attracted attention from higher levels, including an offer from an NCAA Division I program. “I didn’t think I’d get looks at this level,” she admitted. “When Coach told me I was being offered, I was surprised. I want to move up and work hard to keep improving.”
Coach Payne expressed confidence in her future, saying, “Zae’Ja has huge opportunities ahead. Her work ethic and leadership are impressive. I hope every school in the state gets to have a player like her.”
Davis remains focused and confident. “I have faith in myself and know I can achieve my goals,” she said. “With my game growing, more doors will open for the Rangers and me.”
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