Vicksburg High’s Arthur Davis signs soccer scholarship with Tougaloo College

VICKSBURG, Miss.(VDN) — Arthur Davis is turning a lifelong passion into a collegiate opportunity.

The Vicksburg High School goalkeeper signed a soccer scholarship with Tougaloo College on Monday during a celebration held at the school honoring the standout athlete.

For Davis, the decision to attend Tougaloo came naturally as the program showed consistent interest in him throughout his high school career.

“Tougaloo was the first school that stuck with me,” Davis said. “They were coming to my games and they just showed a lot of interest.”

Davis’ love for soccer began early. He started playing at just 2 years old. After taking a break from the sport, he was inspired to return after watching future teammate Cannon Jackson play. Davis then joined the Vicksburg High soccer team during his freshman year.

He initially played center back before making the transition to goalkeeper as a sophomore — a move that would define his high school career.

That same season, Vicksburg faced Columbus in a playoff matchup that ended in a tie and forced a penalty kick shootout. Davis delivered a memorable moment by blocking the game-winning shot, securing the Gators’ first playoff victory in three years.

Davis spent most of his varsity career playing under head coach Maurice Gilliam, a relationship that helped shape him as both a player and a person.

“We’ve had our ups and downs and sometimes I didn’t listen, but he’s a great coach and he knows what he’s doing,” Davis said.

One of Davis’ most impressive performances came this season against Canton when he recorded more than 20 saves in a 2-2 draw.

A two-time All-County selection, Davis compiled more than 150 saves during his junior season and over 170 as a senior, establishing himself as one of the area’s top goalkeepers.

Reflecting on his journey, Davis credited several people for helping him reach this milestone.

“My old teammate, Jarell Nowell, I have to thank because he made me better,” Davis said. “My mom always stayed on me, but I’m glad she stuck with me.”

Davis will graduate from Vicksburg High School before beginning his collegiate career at Tougaloo, where he plans to major in elementary education.

“I’m excited because I always wanted to play a sport in college, so it’s a wonderful feeling,” he said.

Davis is the son of Arthur Davis Sr. and Monica Williams.