University of Minnesota Athletics
Gopher Tennis Adds Leina Gao to 2026-27 Roster
8/20/2026 2:52:00 PM | Tennis
MINNEAPOLIS — University of Minnesota head tennis coach Lois Arterberry announced the signing of Leina (Nina) Gao to the Golden Gophers' 2026-27 roster. Gao, a native of Beijing, China, will join the Maroon and Gold after graduating from JPED Academy in 2026.
"We are excited to have Leina on board," Arterberry said. "She is dedicated and hungry for growth. Leina is ready to take her tennis to the next level and is really excited to have chosen Minnesota. We are thrilled that she chose us and we are eager to see her future as a Gopher."
Prior to her Minnesota tenure, Gao competed in singles tournaments organized by China Junior Tennis (CTJ) and the Chinese Tennis Association (CTA), as well as ITF junior doubles events.
"As a student-athlete, finding a place that excels both on the court and in the classroom was my priority," Gao said. "I chose Minnesota because of its proven commitment to academics. The ITA All-Academic Team recognition shows this program truly cares about success off the court. I believe the high standards and support at UMN will allow me to push my tennis limits while earning a degree I can be proud of. It is the perfect place for me to pursue excellence in every aspect of my life."
"We are excited to have Leina on board," Arterberry said. "She is dedicated and hungry for growth. Leina is ready to take her tennis to the next level and is really excited to have chosen Minnesota. We are thrilled that she chose us and we are eager to see her future as a Gopher."
Prior to her Minnesota tenure, Gao competed in singles tournaments organized by China Junior Tennis (CTJ) and the Chinese Tennis Association (CTA), as well as ITF junior doubles events.
"As a student-athlete, finding a place that excels both on the court and in the classroom was my priority," Gao said. "I chose Minnesota because of its proven commitment to academics. The ITA All-Academic Team recognition shows this program truly cares about success off the court. I believe the high standards and support at UMN will allow me to push my tennis limits while earning a degree I can be proud of. It is the perfect place for me to pursue excellence in every aspect of my life."
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