Aug. 26, 2008

FRESNO, Calif. - Fresno State women's tennis coach Simon Thibodeau has announced the hiring of Laura Gordon as the new assistant coach for women's tennis.

Gordon joins Fresno State after serving as an undergraduate assistant coach for UCLA during the 2006-07 season, in which the Bruins reached the finals of the NCAA tournament.

"It's very exciting to have someone like Laura join our team," Thibodeau said. "She has a lot of experience as both a player and a coach that will benefit us. I look forward to her using her experience and competiveness to help our team get to the next level."

Before coaching at UCLA, Gordon played for the Bruins from 2002-06. The former walk-on, battled for a spot on the team, eventually playing in the No. 1 singles and doubles position and earning All-American honors in both as a senior. Gordon and her doubles partner reached the quarterfinals of the 2006 NCAA Tournament in her senior year.

Gordon was awarded the ITA Cissie Leary Sportsmanship Award in 2006, a prestigious award given to athletes that show hard work, courage, sportsmanship and a positive attitude.

"I am honored and excited to be a part of a program that has shown they can play at the top level every year," Gordon said.

The Bulldogs begin practice for their fall season on Sept. 11.

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