NEW COMMIT: Olympic silver medalist Arabella “Bella” Sims of Henderson, Nevada – one of the top recruits in her class – has verbally committed to the University of Florida for the fall of 2023.
She will join Grace Rainey, JoJo Ramey and Michaela Mattes in Gainesville as a member of the Gators’ Class of 2027.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I am excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my athletic and academic career at the University of Florida! I’d like to thank God, my family, friends and coaches for all of your support in this journey! I wouldn’t be where I am today without you! A special thank you to Coach Nesty, Coach Ron and all the coaches who helped me through this process! Looking forward to the future with the Gator Nation! Go Gators!! ? ??”
Sims had a standout summer, qualifying for the Olympic Trials in 11 of 14 events. She earned her Olympic berth as a member of Team USA’s 4x200m free relay where she ended up earning a silver medal. She finished fifth in that event in Omaha after qualifying seventh during semifinals.
She swims with Ron Aitken at Sandpipers of Nevada year-round.
Her best times include:
- 500 free – 4:32.13
- 200 free – 1:42.59
- 400 IM – 4:06.59
- 200 IM – 1:56.12
- 200 fly – 1:54.89
- 100 fly – 52.26
- 200 back – 1:53.66
- 100 back – 53.85
- 1650 free – 15:59.68
- 1000 free – 9:32.59
- 100 free – 49.16
- 50 free – 22.83
She has also earned USA Swimming Scholastic All-American honors.
Sims is undoubtedly a major pickup for the Gators. She would’ve scored in the A-final of the 200 free, mile, 200 IM, and 400 IM at the 2021 NCAA Championships, also placing in the B-final of the 200 back and 200 fly.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Her best time would have won the 500.