JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – Carson-Newman women's soccer head coach Simon Duffy has announced the addition of Ana Bigarella to the coaching staff as a graduate assistant coach.

"Delighted to have Ana joining our staff," Duffy said. "She is well aware of the conference, having spent last year at Emory & Henry. I look forward to her help working with the goalkeepers."

 The Abingdon, Virginia native comes to Mossy Creek after spending one season as an assistant women's soccer coach at Emory & Henry in 2022.

Before joining the coaching ranks, the goalkeeper began her playing career at Heartland Community College where she posted an impressive 0.182 goals allowed average. Bigarella then transferred to Union and recorded 68 saves and a saves percentage of 76.4%. While at Union College, she was also part of the Swimming and Diving team.

Bigarella received a Bachelor of Science degree in general studies from Union College in 2022. She was also the recipient of the 2022 NAIA Champion of Character Award.

Prior to her collegiate career, Bigarella played as a member of Brazil's Next Academy Curitiba from 2016-2018 and was named Goalkeeper of the Year in 2017. She was also the assistant goalkeeper coach for Atletico Paranaense, working with the U-7, U-9 and U-14 squads.