BROOKVILLE, N.Y. — Leah Bowlby and Daniel Tellerman walked onto the LIU rowing teams when the programs launched last academic year.

Now, both have been selected captains in advance of the spring season.

"They've both been key players in building this brand new, young team," coach Jaclyn Smith said. "Even with both of them not having any rowing experience, both of them came in and made the top boats.

"They're both natural athletes. They're also natural leaders. I never have to ask twice to get something done. They're very good with motivating the team. So we felt like it was the right move to name both of them captain."

The rowing teams resume competition March 25 in Overpeck, N.J., alongside Iona, Manhattan, Skidmore and Stockton.

Bowlby and Tellerman arrived at LIU without rowing experience, but both were accomplished athletes who showed a quick aptitude for the sport.

Tellerman, a junior marketing major, arrived at LIU having played three years of varsity golf at East Meadow High School.

Bowlby, a sophomore forensic science major from South Haven, Kansas, played varsity softball and volleyball for four years apiece in high school and captained both squads as a senior.

"They've been strong in winter training," Smith said. "I'm very excited to see what's going to come to them this season and beyond."