MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, April 26. THE University of Minnesota announced the signing of a pair of female swimmers to their team for the 2007-08 season. Emilia Nilsson of Linkoping, Sweden, and Avery Michienzi of Minneapolis will compete for the Golden Gophers next season.
Nilsson swims for Linkoping Allmanna swim club under the direction of coach Mikael Holmertz. Nilsson is a multiple gold, silver and bronze medalist at the Swedish National Championships since her time there from 2003-2007. Competing in the 100 butterfly, Nilsson earned a bronze medal at the European Junior Championships in 2004. She will graduate from the National Science Program Gymnasium this June.
Jeff Sanders and Neil Anderson coached Michienzi, who is a member of the South High School swim team. In 2006, Michienzi earned all-state honors and finished fifth at the Minnesota State High School Championships in the 100 breaststroke. A stellar student, Michienzi is also a member of the National Honor Society.
Special thanks to Minnesota for contributing this report.