NORMAN, Okla. -- The University of Oklahoma has named Leeanne Crain as the first head coach of its new rowing program. Crain has spent the last four seasons as head coach at the University of Central Florida, following a 10-year stint as coach at the University of San Diego.

Crain's appointment was announced Wednesday by OU Vice President for Sports Programs and Athletics Director Joe Castiglione. Oklahoma's varsity women's rowing program will begin competing in the spring of 2009.

"Today's announcement underlines the importance of rowing as a new varsity sport at OU," said University President David L. Boren. "Coach Crain has established herself as one of the best rowing coaches in the nation. As the new team is being put together, we will also soon begin construction on the new Aubrey McClendon OU Boathouse along the race course of the Oklahoma River in Oklahoma City."

The new coach appreciates her selection as the inaugural coach, especially in the Oklahoma City market."

"I am thrilled to be given this tremendous opportunity as the first head coach of the women's rowing program at the University of Oklahoma," Crain said. "There is so much excitement in the rowing community over the revitalization of Oklahoma City's Bricktown and the rowing venue that is being planned along the riverfront. I am grateful to Joe Castiglione for his trust in my abilities to build a national championship rowing program at OU. I am anxious to get underway."
From Soonersports.com