By Robert Wilson
Northwest Rankin girls soccer coach Carli Little received some incredible news last week about one of her best players – junior Tyler Grace Sims.
Sims was not expected back this season after being in an automobile accident in late September and had neck surgery.
“We were stunned last week when her doctor completely cleared her to return to the field,” Little said. “We’ve thought all season that wasn’t going to be a possibility, so for that to change and her to be on the field is nothing short of a miracle.”
After being cleared last week, Sims got a chance to play for the first time this season in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Northeast Jones at Northwest Rankin.
“TG (Sims’ nickname) entered the game 13 minutes into the second half and played for about 15 minutes,” said Little, who is in her fourth season as head coach after six years as an assistant. “From the sidelines to the stands, everyone was clapping and cheering her on when she subbed in. She went in for senior captain Allie Sifford. Allie stopped and gave her a hug before leaving the field. We were all so excited for her because we know how badly she’s wanted to be out there all season. She had a chance to score quickly after entering the game but couldn’t get the shot off. But a few minutes later, she got the ball again, drove down the left side and slid a ball to teammate and close friend SK Foreman for our third goal of the game.”
It has been a physical and mental journey for Sims.
“TG has been sidelined before for injuries, but this one was much harder on her mentally,” Little said. “She was in a lot of pain, but she never showed it. TG continued to come to practices and hasn’t missed a game. This team has such a tight bond, and they were so excited and happy to have her back on the field with them on Saturday. TG plays with such tenacity; she instantly raises everyone’s level when she steps on the field. The players have been playing for her all season, and it means something more now that she’s able to step back on the pitch with them as we enter the playoffs.”
Sims has potential to play in college.
“Every juco in the state almost has expressed interest as well as Southern Miss and Ole Miss,” Little said. “TG has incredible touch and is one of those players that you can put almost anywhere. You never have to question her effort or desire. TG gives you absolutely everything she has when she’s out there. I have seen her so exhausted in a game before that she was in tears, but you never heard a single complaint from her.”
Northwest Rankin has a 19-1-1 record and plays its last regular season game against Clinton Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at Clinton.
