Scholarship recipient helps pitch team to record-breaking season
July 22, 2026
Scholarship recipient Izzy Davis was part of a historic season for Columbia International University’s softball team, which made it to the semifinals of the NCCAA Softball World Series.
For Izzy, the chance to compete at Columbia International began with the opportunity to attend the university in the first place. The Meeting Street Scholarship helps make that possible.
“It’s a big relief,” said Laudis Davis, her mother. “We do not have the money and the school that she goes to is very expensive. We are blessed that she had gotten it.”
Her journey to the college World Series started at Hannah-Pamplico High School, where Izzy was a standout pitcher. After being recruited to play softball for Columbia International, she searched for scholarships that would help make college more affordable. When she found out she had earned the Meeting Street Scholarship, she and her mom jumped up and down with excitement.
“There was a financial burden lifted off of our shoulders,” Izzy said.
During the spring of 2025, Izzy pitched for Columbia International as a freshman, helping the team nearly reach the semifinals of the Appalachian Athletic Conference Tournament but falling short of advancing to the NCCAA South Region Tournament.
With most of the roster returning this year, the team entered the 2026 season even better than last year. Izzy said everyone was dedicated to improving their game, and she knew they had what it took to go further.
Midway through the season, Columbia International experienced a devastating 11-inning loss to Brenau University, which Izzy described as a turning point for the team.
“After that, we realized we are going to start doing this for each other,” Izzy said. “We’re going to come together and we’re going to play to the best of our ability.”
Their strong bond and commitment to putting in extra work were integral to their improvement and ultimate success, she said.
“I have so much trust in them when I’m on the mound,” Izzy said. “It doesn’t matter where they (the batters) hit it. I know that my team is going to get there.”
Jordan Gentry, the assistant coach for Columbia International’s softball team, said the team’s trust in one another fueled their season, and Izzy was a key part of that.
“Whenever we faced a challenging opponent or an important conference series, there was never any doubt that Izzy was ready to take the ball and compete,” Jordan said. “Her consistency and presence in the circle gave our entire team confidence.”
Columbia International continued advancing through the tournaments, traveling to Tennessee, Florida and then Texas for the NCCAA World Series.
Izzy’s parents followed the team on the road, cheering on their daughter. Even though Laudis was nervous watching Izzy pitch, she admired how hard her daughter worked.
“It’s not just the playing and the winning or losing, it’s just how well she carried herself, and that’s what matters to us,” Laudis said.
During the World Series semifinals against Southwestern Christian University, Columbia International trailed for most of the game but never stopped fighting, Izzy said.
The team ultimately finished with the first 40-win season in program history, supported by Izzy’s presence and pitching.
“We were satisfied with the work that we’ve done, and I think we’re ready for this next season,” Izzy said.
