NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — LIU's newest athletic program made its much-anticipated debut on Wednesday night.

The acrobatics & tumbling team competed against host Iona in the Sharks' inaugural meet as a program.

The Gaels prevailed, 254.190-233.410.

"We are really excited to compete in our first meet," LIU coach Shelby Armstrong said. 

The inaugural 18-member team includes 13 transfers from other collegiate acrobatics & tumbling or gymnastics programs.
 
The most experienced newcomers include Logan Lombardi, a transfer from the University of Kentucky gymnastics team, who is now a tumbler, top, base and a mid-level — providing considerable versatility.

Also noteworthy: Lila Campbell-Stephen, a freshman from Canada and former gymnast, who will be seen quite a few times as a top and a tumbler, as well as Madysen Bradley, who joined the team from LIU's gymnastics squad. Bradley is a standout base. 

"We are carrying a lot of leadership and experience," Armstrong said.

LIU returns to action Feb. 25 at Quinnipiac. The first home meet is March 5 against Baylor at Pratt Recreation Center.