By: Madie Brink
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls Women's Tennis program and Head Coach Kevin Grebin have announced the addition of two more accomplished student-athletes to the 2026 recruiting class, signing Amity Strand (Rapid City, S.D.) and Anna Helling (Parkers Prairie, Minn.).
The duo adds even more depth to an already impressive incoming class, bringing championship experience, academic excellence, and multi-sport versatility to the Cougar program.
"I'm very excited to add Amity and Anna to our program," said Grebin. "Both bring strong competitive backgrounds, outstanding character, and the kind of work ethic that will fit our culture well. They will be excellent additions to Cougar Tennis."
With the additions of Strand and Helling, USF continues to strengthen a 2026 class built on proven winners, high-level competitors, and student-athletes prepared to contribute both on the court and in the classroom.
Amity Strand • Rapid City, South Dakota • St. Thomas More HS
One of South Dakota's most decorated prep players, Amity Strand joins the Cougars following a standout multi-sport career at St. Thomas More. A proven winner in singles and doubles competition, Strand captured the 2025 South Dakota State Singles Championship after two state runner-up finishes in singles and helped lead her team to a 2025 State Team Championship after also contributing to a runner-up finish the previous season.
Her résumé also includes a doubles state runner-up finish, showcasing her versatility across the lineup, while her competitive pedigree extends beyond tennis as a member of a state championship golf team and multiple SoDak 16-qualifying basketball squads.
Strand brings elite academic credentials as well, highlighted by National Honor Society, Academic All-State honors, a 4.05 GPA, five AP courses, and dual credit coursework. She plans to major in Pre-Medicine with aspirations of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.
With championship experience, multi-sport athleticism, and a strong all-around skillset, Strand gives the Cougars another high-impact addition for the future.
Anna Helling • Parkers Prairie, Minnesota • Parkers Prairie HS
Anna Helling arrives at USF after building a reputation as a consistent competitor and leader in Minnesota prep tennis. A five-year varsity letterwinner who began competing at the varsity level in eighth grade, Helling served as team captain during her junior and senior seasons and earned Most Valuable Player and All-Conference honors in her final campaign.
A multi-sport standout, Helling also competed in softball and basketball, earning multiple varsity letters while demonstrating the athletic versatility and competitive drive that will translate well to the collegiate level.
Off the court, Helling excelled academically as a two-time academic letterwinner and president of Minnesota Honors Society, while remaining active in FCA, Knowledge Bowl, and History Club. She plans to study Nursing at USF and hopes to work in dermatology.
Her leadership experience, strong fundamentals, and well-rounded background make her another exciting addition to the Cougar roster.
Building for the Future
With the additions of Strand and Helling, the Cougars continue assembling one of the deepest and most versatile recruiting classes in recent program history. The pair joins a class that already reflects a blend of championship pedigree, regional talent, and academic achievement—signaling continued momentum for USF Women's Tennis.
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