Zia Combs, the former Michigan Wolverines Quarterback and WJF Maize Football Coach, Has Passed Way Following Injury Complications he Suffered in 2002
Life taken away too soon!
October 14, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 14, 2026
Coach Zia Combs, a respected figure in the Maize football community and a former University of Michigan defensive back, has passed away.
d
Combs was remembered for his dedication to players, despite suffering a career-ending injury.
He earned a football Scholarship to play for the Michigan Wolverines as a defensive back, thanks to his talent and dedication to sports, despite growing up in poverty.
A career-ending injury haunted Zia Combs for the rest of his life
In October 2002, he suffered a catastrophic neck and spinal injury during a game that left him with severe physical challenges for the rest of his life.
The injury, unfortunately, ended his career and dream of playing in the NFL. On top of that, extensive treatment and rehabilitation were required.
He remained close to the sports and athletes he mentored. Many former coaches, players, and his students emphasized his character and resilience. Though it was not just the athletic field, he inspired people.
After the news of the passing, his Aunt said, “Though you left too soon, your memory inspires us to find strength. My nephew has found peace with the Lord. Zia Combs Wingate’s passing is a profound loss, a shock to us all. Zia was my sister Freda ‘Tiny’ Combs Wingate’s twin, a bond that only eternity can fully capture. I’m praying for his son, Little “Z”, his wife, and the Combs and Wingate families. May the Lord give us the strength to carry on. Rest well, Nephew, you’re with your mom.”
Numerous close family members, friends, and old colleagues have also paid tributes to the late Coach.
Zia was the former football coach of WJFMaize. (Source: Facebook)Adriya Perry, The Maize’s President, also released the statement following the coach’s passing,
In Memory of Coach Zia Combs
It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of one of our beloved former coaches, Coach Zia Combs. We have lost not only a remarkable coach but also a wonderful husband, father, and friend who touched the lives of many.
Coach Zia was a genuine soul whose passion for the game was evident in every session and every interaction. His positive influence on the players and his dedication to the sport enriched our community in ways that words cannot fully capture.
His loss is deeply felt, and he will forever hold a special place in the Maize family. During this difficult time, I encourage you all to keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. Your support and understanding mean a great deal as they navigate through this challenging period.
We are still awaiting details regarding the arrangements, but as soon as they are finalized, I will share them with you. Until then, let us honor his memory by reflecting on the joy and inspiration he brought into our lives.
With deepest sympathy,
Adriya Perry, Maize President
After his injury, Combs became an inspiration and mentor to many, drawing on his experience to counsel young athletes on balancing life both on and off the field.
The Maize organization said arrangements are pending and pledged to share details once they become available.
In the meantime, the community has urged everyone who Zia inspired and knew not just as a coach but as a person, to keep family in their thoughts and prayers and to honor his legacy.
- Check other Articles on
Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.
Related articles
May 8, 2026
May 7, 2026
May 6, 2026
May 5, 2026
Comments
LEAVE A REPLY
Comment: Please enter your comment! Name:* Please enter your name here Email:* You have entered an incorrect email address! Please enter your email address here
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.
Share article
- May 11, 2026 A video circulating on Facebook has sparked a heated debate among Bell Gardens residents after police were called on a group of kids riding...
- May 11, 2026 Mortimer Jordan High School athlete Aiden Doss has passed away. Aiden Doss was a baseball player from Morris, Alabama, who attended Mortimer Jordan High School....
- May 8, 2026 What was supposed to be a normal Saturday of youth football quickly became something no parent, coach, or child should ever have to witness....
- May 7, 2026 Jordan Haas a student athlete at Chatham University, passed away on Monday. He majored in psychology and was a member of the men's volleyball...
- May 7, 2026 A routine shopping trip at the Adairsville Cracker Barrel turned into a deeply disturbing scene recently when a local woman witnessed what she described...
