Former Demopolis High School softball standout Sara Davis will renew her playing career next season after committing to play for East Central Community College (Miss.).

While serving as the Tigers’ only pitcher her senior season, Davis fueled the team’s run into the second round of the playoffs, recording a perfect game against Greenville in the area tournament along the way. With a number of junior college offers on the table — including one from ECCC — Davis opted to attend the University of West Alabama and leave the game behind her.

“I’m so excited,” Davis said of the opportunity. “Last year, when I sat out for a year, I hated it.”

While at UWA, Davis found herself missing the game she loved. Even though the year-long hiatus partially set back her development, Davis believes that the time was well spent.

“I think sitting out was good for me, not from a physical standpoint, but mentally,” Davis said. “I was kind of burnt out my senior year. Now I know that I do want to play.”

After determining that she wanted to play again, Davis began the process of getting back into game shape.

“I played intramural ball at (UWA), so I kind of got a little bit of throwing in,” she said. “And right after school go out, I started pitching again. I haven’t been doing a super duper whole lot, but I’ve been getting back into the swing of it.”

In addition to playing intramural ball, Davis played a few games with the L.A. Thunder travel softball team.

Upon reaching the decision to renew her career, Davis faced the task of finding a place to play. That process ultimately ended when ECCC head coach Scott Hill extended her the opportunity to try out.

“He made me go through the whole tryout again,” Davis said. “It feels really nice to know that I was able to sit out a year and now I have a chance to play again.”

“Sara’s going to make the adjustment very quickly,” Browder said. “Even though she didn’t compete at the collegiate level last year, she’s continued to play ball. Sara is a competitor. She is no stranger to hard work.”

While her immediate softball future will lead her to Decatur, Miss., Davis hopes to make the most of the opportunity and make her way to a four-year school.

“I’m only planning on playing one year at East Central, then I want to transfer to a four-year school,” Davis said.