Buffalo Signs 11 Rowers

Buy Now

BUFFALO, NY – The University at Buffalo has signed 11 student-athletes to compete on the women's rowing team beginning in the 2012-13 season. A pair of transfers and nine incoming freshmen will join the UB squad.

Clare Costello comes from nearby Williamsville, NY where she competed for Nardin Academy for head coach John Cartus. 

"Buffalo is home for me, the team is great and so is the school," Costello said.  "I'm going right where I want to be, and I couldn't be happier."

Veronica Castillo is from Flushing, NY and attended Newtown High School. She rowed for Row NY for head coach Previn Chandraratna.

"When I went on my first visit, it felt like I was flying out to a place that was located in the middle of nowhere. I had my doubts, but after landing and staying on campus for a full two days I quickly changed my perspective," Castillo said. "After meeting most of the coaches from UB's rowing team I felt like I was being welcomed with open arms. It felt like home and reminded me of my high school team. Everyone was so nice and told me about their own freshman experiences and how great the UB staff is."

Raleigh Galbraith went to Pittsford-Mendon High School in Pittsford, NY. She rowed with the Pittsford Crew for head coach Sue Parvin. 

"I have many reasons why I chose Buffalo but one of the biggest reasons were because I fell in love with the rowing team and Coach Kanaley," Galbraith said. "They made me feel so welcome and comfortable from the first minute I stepped on campus for my official visit. After that initial weekend living with the team I knew that UB is where I belong!"

Caroline Lodinsky will have freshman eligibility after transferring to UB from SUNY Fredonia. Originally from Buffalo, Lodinsky graduated from Holy Angels Academy.

"I chose buffalo because of the great athletics, and a larger/diverse school," Lodinsky said.

Meghan O'Brien hails from Schenectady, NY and graduated from Guilderland Central High School. She rowed for head coach Dave Clayman at SGS Rowing Club.

"I chose UB because it seemed like the perfect place for me," O'Brien said. "It's a big and exciting school with my major, affordable tuition and women's rowing!"

Samantha Paige is a native of Manlius, NY and attended Fayetteville-Manlius High School where she rowed for Bob Garafalo. 

"I had heard great things about UB's rowing team and the school in general from my high school coach, Bob Garafalo and several other family and friends," Paige said. "In addition to having my academic needs (nursing), I am excited to be a part of such an outstanding rowing team and college community in all areas. When I visited UB both in the summer and the fall, I thoroughly enjoyed the all-around school spirit. The students seemed so proud to be a part of the school community. I am looking forward to the experiences and lessons learned that I know UB will provide me with."  

Colleen Patterson is from Farmingdale, NY and rowed for head coach Lawrence Mobius at St. Anthony's High School. 

"I decided to go to the University at Buffalo because I wanted to be challenged and receive a good education," Patterson said. "I am also very keen on the idea of rowing for a Division I team. At Buffalo, I will be pushed to achieve excellence every day."

Elsa Schwab is transferring from the University of Pacific. She originally hails from Russell, PA.

"I chose to attend UB for the opportunity for a great education and ability to row close to home, Schwab said."

Erica Tenteromano hails from West Nyack, NY and graduated from Clarkstown South High School. She rowed for the River Rowing Association for head coach Oksana Tsimbaova.

"The first and perhaps the biggest thing that helped me make the decision was the welcome I got. When I first started walking around UB everyone and everything was so nice, the warm and friendly atmosphere really trumped the cold temperatures," Tenteromano said. "I was very impressed with the whole athletic arena, as well as the rest of the campus. Coach Kerri and Dr. B really set the tone for the welcoming atmosphere for me. I could totally picture myself going there."

Mackenzie Turpin is a native of Ottawa, Ontario and graduated from Colonel By Secondary School. She rowed with the Ottawa Rowing Club for head coach Cliff Brimmell.

"I chose Buffalo because when I came for a visit in November I was nervous and I didn't know anyone but everyone I met was sincerely nice and helpful and I immediately felt like it was a place I could feel at home."

Hanna Victor graduated from Orchard Park High School and rowed for John Haumesser at the West Side Rowing Club. 

"I can't wait to be surrounded by so many people who are excited about learning and who have a passion for what they do," Victor said. "The University at Buffalo has so many different areas of study and I know that I will find my place in no time. A huge part of this experience that I cannot wait to be a part of, is the lightweight rowing team! I look forward to continuing my rowing career with such a talented group of people, teammates and coaches."  

The Bulls are coming off a season in which they finished third in the CAA Championships. The lightweight four boat went on to earn the bronze medal at the IRA National Championships.