World-Ranked Spanish Standout to Join UAlbany Tennis for Spring Season

Albany, N.Y. -- The University at Albany women's tennis program has announced the signing of Irene Santos-Bravo for their upcoming spring season. Santos-Bravo, a globally-recognized singles player, has ranked as high as No. 18 in Spain and No. 443 in the world by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA).

A Madrid native, Santos-Bravo competed at the world-stage on the WTA Tour in 2010. She garnered wins over other WTA-ranked athletes including Sally Peers (No. 145), Arina Rodinova (No. 157) and Ganna Piven (No. 334).

"[Santos-Bravo] brings a level of expertise, experience and success, that will help take us to another level," said head coach Gordon Graham. "She is going to be a real team player who will help make us an even tighter, more competitive unit. She's a tremendous addition to our team."

The 23-year-old will start her UAlbany tennis career playing at the National Collegiate Tennis Classic, Jan. 18-20, in Palm Springs, Calif. This 32-player draw includes competitors from collegiate tennis powers such as Stanford, UCLA, USC, North Carolina and Alabama.

Santos-Bravo joins UAlbany with one semester of eligibility remaining at the NCAA level. She plans to enroll in the communication's graduate program, pursuing a master's degree.

UAlbany opens their dual match schedule at home against Marist on Feb. 2. Match time is set for 2 p.m. at City Tennis and Fitness in Latham, N.Y.