By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Gracie Sims accomplished big things in the Union City High School volleyball program.
An even bigger stage awaits her on the next level.
Sims – just the second player ever in the 14-year history of UCHS volleyball to earn All-State honors – recently signed to continue her playing career at Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson.
The six-foot senior helped the Lady Tornadoes to back-to-back appearances in the Class 1A state tournament the past two seasons and set a program record with an amazing 362 kills as a senior when UC won a best-ever 24 matches.
Gracie added 108 service aces, 45 blocks, and 36 saves to her seasonal stat line in a spectacular final prep campaign and finished her UCHS playing career with an astounding 582 kills over her final two years.
Securing an opportunity to play collegiately was simply a dream when she insisted she “fell in love with volleyball” as a freshman.
“I became really interested in the sport, and that just grew into a passion over time,” Sims said after making her future plans official while family and senior teammates looked on. “I have so many memories – from our pregame routines in the locker room, to the road trips home – that I’ll keep with me forever.
“All I wanted was the opportunity to play at the next level. There was a time when I didn’t know if I’d be recruited, but (UCHS assistant athletic director) Mr. (John) Graham sent out a lot of letters, and eventually I started to hear from some people.
“And I liked the Christian-based environment of everything on campus at Freed-Hardeman.”
Her Union City head coach the last two seasons, Jessica Graham, was thrilled for the opportunity that awaits Sims.
“I couldn’t be more proud and excited for her as she takes the next step to play volleyball at the collegiate level,” claimed Graham, the winningest head coach in Lady Tornado program history. “This opportunity is so well deserved and is a true reflection of the countless hours of hard work she has put in.
“It has been such a blessing and honor to coach her and walk alongside her in this journey. She has been an incredible leader – playing with so much heart, energy, and love for the game. Those were qualities that made her so special to watch and coach.
“Gracie has left a lasting impact on our program, and I know she will continue to do amazing things both on and off the court.”
Sims said she plans on majoring in physical therapy at FHU and will likely gain experience on the jayvee team in her freshman year.