Following a fantastic career with the Winston Academy volleyball team, Julianna Sims is being recognized as one of the best in the state.
The MAIS released its 2022 Division II All-State team on Monday, and the senior Sims made the list with 11 other players across the state of Mississippi. Sims has been with the program since its inception four years ago and has been a part of history along the way.
Starting with head coach Candice Cefalu, Sims has helped the Lady Patriots accomplish many firsts for the school. Winston has earned marquee wins over the last two seasons against Heritage Academy, East Webster, Choctaw County, and Grace Christian. In the last two years, the program also competed in the state tournament for the first time.
Sims has served as one of the team leaders the last two seasons. This year, she was named to the MAIS All-Star team with teammate Analeigh Dempsey. Sims was ecstatic back in September for the honor.
“I didn’t think that I even had a chance to be represented because they pick from everybody in Mississippi. When Mrs. Candice called me and said that I made the All-Star team, I was over the moon. I’m competing with schools like JA, Lamar, Jackson Prep, and teams like that. I’m ecstatic,” Sims said. “I know that we started late. I’ve only been playing four years, and we’re not as developed as everyone else, but I think we have one of the best teams, one of the best environments, and team chemistry. I wouldn’t want to play for any other team.”
