TACOMA, Wash. - After a nationwide search, Director of Athletics Amy Hackett has announced the Puget Sound Loggers have hired Marsa Daniel as director of the men's and women's crew programs.

Daniel comes to Puget Sound from the University of Washington, where she spent the 2007-08 season as assistant novice women's coach for the Division I Huskies. Prior to her time at UW, Daniel spent two seasons as the head novice coach and assistant varsity coach at Smith College in Northampton, Mass., helping coach the team to a fourth place finish at the 2006 NCAA Championships.

"I want to thank Academic Vice President Kris Bartanen, Athletic Director Amy Hackett, and the entire Head Rowing Coach search committee for their investment in this process and for this opportunity," said Daniel.

A graduate of Western Washington University, Daniel rowed for the Vikings from 1997-2001 before graduating with a Bachelor of Science in exercise science with a specialization in pre-physical therapy. Daniel also holds of Master of Science in exercise and sport studies from Smith College.

Following her time at WWU, Daniel moved on to Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., where she spent two seasons. In 2004, she assisted with the women's varsity crew placing third at the NCAA Championship.

"Puget Sound is excited to have someone to lead our program who has been associated with some of the best rowing teams in the country.  We know Marsa will help carry on our proud tradition of success for both men's and women's crew," said Hackett.

"I look forward to getting to know all of the athletes on both the men's and women's teams, and I am extremely excited to start fall training with the varsity women.  Puget Sound has a strong tradition of competitive rowing, one that I am thrilled to now be a part of," added Daniel.