Students at Long Beach High School are testing their physical skills through the athletic department’s crew program, a 10-week enrichment program offered under the direction of Concept Fitness’ Lizzy Carson.

The program attracts dozens of interested students twice a week, exposing them to rowing techniques while growing their athleticism and conditioning.

“The rowing program presents students with an opportunity to try something new,” Arnold Epstein, Long Beach’s athletic director said.

Since the program’s inception in 2022, Long Beach has produced four collegiate athletes in rowing and will be adding another come this fall — Torrence Feehan, a freshman rower on University of Delaware’s rowing team who graduated last year, and her younger sister, Caelin Feehan, a Long Beach senior, who just signed her letter of intent to row at Loyola University Maryland.

Caelin Feehan said she wanted to focus on her physical well-being. Joining as a freshman when the program first formed, she enjoys the opportunity to see the program grow. 

Feehan, who had no prior rowing experience, said the program is built well for beginners, adding it prioritizes fundamentals and learning over competitiveness.

“I’ve noticed a lot of students who come in who’ve never touched a weight before or are looking to get in shape,” Feehan said. “You can see them start to enjoy working out.

Carson, who oversees the program at 7 Hampton Road, in Oceanside, said it’s an opportunity for kids to grow their interest in rowing.

“Some of the students show tremendous progress and interest,” Carson said. “From the program, we work with those students to get them more training, like Regattas.”

Once per session, students can complete a 2k test that measures endurance and power. Feehan and her sister have spent a lot of time testing. Caelin scored an 815, and her sister a 745.

“A lower score means a better placement,” Carson said.

When asked to reflect on her experience, Feehan thanked Carson for her continued support and willingness to show students how to improve themselves physically and mentally.

“You are encouraged to lift heavy and be in shape in the way that you could throw a tank,” Feehan said.