San Francisco, CA -- The Urban Knights are proud to announce the signing of international recruit Sofia Persson to their women's tennis squad, the first of new coach Jerry Peach's recruits to compete for Academy of Art University. Persson, a native of Gothenburg, Sweden, brings previous experience from Columbus State (GA), and from Bergh's School of Communication in Sweden. Due to NCAA requirements, Persson will have to sit out the 2012 season, but is prepared and excited to take the court in 2013.

"Sofia actually recruited us," said head coach Jerry Peach. "She was probably the easiest recruit I've had in years because she found out about us on her own. She came to San Francisco last summer with her family and she wanted to be here."

Persson played her freshman year for Columbus State, compiling an 18-5 record and playing a big part in leading the Cougars to a 2010 in top form, staying in the Top 15 in Division II women's tennis for the entire year. She decided to take a break from school and returned to her native country, attending Bergh's and refocusing on her other passion: Advertising.

That other passion drew her back to the United States, and to San Francisco, one of the top cities for professional advertising and also one of the best for collegiate athletics. After visiting San Francisco, Persson discovered the Urban Knights and realized that it was a match made with both parties in mind.

"You can't ask for a better fit," Coach Peach said. "Everybody is always talking about getting a good fit, where they can flourish academically, socially, and athletically, and I think this girl is the right fit. Our school is an obvious choice, giving her the opportunity for combining advertising and tennis."

Coach Peach had a lot to say about Persson's game on the court, and looks forward to her time as an Urban Knight. The 5'6 Swede was ranked in the Top 20 in her age group in her native country, and Peach is convinced that her heritage will play out on and off the tennis court as well.

"Swedes are well-taught, and she fits that mold. She's got great footwork, she fights on the court," Coach Peach said. "I can't say how much she's going to be appreciated because of her influence on the rest of the girls. She's used to working extremely hard, and that will definitely rub off."

Although Persson will not be able to compete until 2013, her addition to the Academy of Art tennis team is a match for the ages.