Xela Davis: Turning Dreams into Reality through Journalism and Sports
Published: February 13, 2025
Author: Liz Dowell
For Xela Davis, the thrill of sports wasn’t just in the competition but in the magic of the storytelling that followed. It was the passion that would shape her future career.
Xela grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and played several sports. Sports have always been a passion for Xela; one memorable moment for her was watching reporters interview players.
"I'd turn on the TV, watch all the games, and see the reporters," Xela recalls. "Right then, I wanted to connect with players, get the inside scoop, and write about it. I love writing, so why not combine it all?"
Now a junior at Greenville University, Xela is realizing her dream of becoming a sports journalist.
FROM HIGH SCHOOL ROOTS TO COLLEGIATE PURSUITS
Xela’s passion for media started in high school when she took media classes and gained hands-on experience with interviews, photography, and radio production.
Greenville University provided the perfect blend of opportunities and mentorship. The Mosaic Diversity Scholarship caught her attention, and after an interview process that highlighted her values and aspirations, Xela secured her place at GU.
Her love for basketball kept her grounded throughout high school and early college. A standout player on her high school team, she continued playing at Greenville University during her freshman and part of her sophomore year. But while her heart remained on the court, her vision for a career in journalism grew stronger.
“I didn’t know what to expect at first,” she admits. “But looking back, the connections I’ve made and the people I’ve met have changed my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”
GAINING REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Xela's journey into journalism reached a milestone with an internship at the St Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC).
"Starting was challenging," Xela explains. "There was so much to learn, and the workload was intense. It felt like there was something new every day. But the experience has been worth it.”
Under the guidance of Associate Commissioner Brian Lovellette, she gained invaluable insights into the fast-paced sports industry.
"Xela has come into this internship with a tremendous desire to learn,” says Lovellette. “She has gladly accepted the various assignments associated with the job and continues to strive towards understanding what it means to highlight our student-athletes and athletic programs in the conference.”
Her responsibilities ranged from coordinating championship events to managing communications. However, it left little time for herself. Yet, Xela embraced the challenge, viewing every task as a step toward her goal.
“Time management became everything,” she says. “It’s not easy, but it’s necessary. The sacrifices I’ve made for this internship—whether it’s weekends or free time—are shaping me into the professional I want to be.”
A TRANSFORMATIVE CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE
Xela's internship led her to a conference for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), where she connected with like-minded individuals and sports administrators from Division I to Division III programs.
Only a select few interns are invited to attend the NCAA conference, and they must apply to be interviewed to get an invite.
Reflecting on the experience, Xela adds, “This trip changed my perspective on everything—sports and life. I bonded with the other 34 students, and we’ve kept in touch since. I highly recommend this program to anyone searching for their ‘why.’ You’ll leave with clarity and purpose.”
“I shared contacts with so many people, but most importantly, [we interns] shared our experiences,” she says. “The event exceeded my expectations. It was more than just meetings and lectures; it clarified who I am and want to become.”
Among the speakers, one stood out—Will Baggett. “He shared this quote: ‘Belief will find a way forward; doubt will find a way out.’ It wasn’t his original quote, but my first time hearing it. Since that day, I catch myself reciting it," says Xela.
The conference also offered a surreal moment: meeting her role model, Holly Rowe. “For so long, I’ve looked up to her and admired her fearlessness in the field of sport. The way she’s paved the way for other women to come in and take notice as well," says Xela. "So I’d say seeing her in person was hands-down surreal.”
BREAKING BARRIERS AND INSPIRING CHANGE
As a young woman in sports journalism, Xela is inspired by the growing presence of women in the industry.
“I see more and more women entering the field, especially on TV, and that’s all the motivation I need,” she says. “It’s encouraging to know I can contribute to this progress.”
Xela aspires to be a role model for others, much like the professionals who have mentored her. Her goal is not just to succeed in sports journalism but to learn about every role in the industry—from broadcasting to management—and to connect with people from all walks of life.
LESSONS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Reflecting on her journey, Xela emphasizes the importance of connections and taking every opportunity seriously. “Pay attention to those classes you think are unnecessary,” she advises. “My work communications class with Professor Doug Faulkner gave me the connections that led to my internship. Nothing in college is unnecessary—it all serves a purpose.”
Faulkner sees characteristics in Xela that contribute to her success: “She is open-minded and a sponge when it comes to listening and learning the nuances of the sports industry.”
Xela’s journey exemplifies the power of believing in oneself and embracing opportunities. From her first glimpse of sports reporters on TV to meeting her role model, she has turned her dreams into tangible milestones. Her story will inspire the next generation of Greenville University sports journalists as she grows.
