ChiarellThe University of Minnesota women’s tennis program has announced the signing of Karina Chiarelli to join the Golden Gophers beginning with the 2005-06 season. A native of So Paulo, Brazil, Chiarelli is considered one of the best junior players in Brazil in the past three years. Ranked third nationally as a junior, she has won several national junior tournaments, including a recent national doubles title.

“Having Karina on the roster will be a big addition for us because of her experience and because of the results she has had as one of the top junior players in Brazil,” assistant coach Luciano Battaglini, a native of Brazil, said. “Her arrival here is also going to push all of our players to a higher level. Karina has an outstanding work ethic and is very excited about coming to the United States to distinguish herself as a player and a student- athlete.”