A pair of talented multi-sport Minnesota prep athletes -- Tyra Kerr of Duluth East High School and Michaela Goris of Lakeville North High School -- have both signed national letters of intent to attend and play softball for the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2009-10.

Kerr has served as the Greyhounds' starting shortstop since eighth grade and is a four-time Duluth News-Tribune All-Area selection. Last spring, she batted .520 to top Duluth East in hitting for ther third year in a row and land St. Paul Pioneer Press All-State (honorable mention) recognition. She also made a name for herself as an all-state caliber performer in both soccer (midfielder) and hockey (defender) over the past four years.

"Tyra is a great all around athlete," said Jen Banford, who will begin her fourth season with the Bulldogs this spring. "She is an extremely hard worker and has a tremendous attitude. It's also a bonus to have a local standout athlete stay in the area and continue her college career at UMD."

Goris will be entering her third season with the Lakeville North High School varsity -- and second as its team captain -- in 2009. As a junior, she was chosen to the All-Lake Conference Team and also received all-state and all-section honors. Goris, the Panther's Offensive Player of the Year in each of the past two seasons, was also a member of the Minnesota State High School Class AAA All-Tournament Team in 2007. She's also lettered three times for the Panthers in both track (where she's a two-time all-conference high jumper) and basketball (guard)

"Michaela is an impact player," said Banford. "She has great vision at the plate and amazing speed on the basepaths. She also has the ability to be a game changer right away because of the pressure she puts on the defense. 

"We are extremely excited to have both Michaela and Tyra joining the Bulldog softball program. They will represent our program well both on and off the field."