ANNVILLE - Two student-athletes on the Lebanon Valley College women's soccer team are not only helping their school win games, they're also helping others by grooming puppies to become registered therapy dogs.
Senior Nicole Snyder and junior Allison Korns -- owners of Linus and Daisy, respectively -- each take time out of their busy schedules to their dogs.
"Being able to stay for long periods of time, especially when they're distracted (that can be difficult)," said Korns, who graduated from Hempfield High School in Lancaster County. "They want to follow you; see what you're getting into and stuff."
The dogs follow Korns and Snyder everywhere.
With the college's blessing, the players bring their pets to class; practice and games, where Daisy and Linus are normally found attached by a leash to the team's bench.
Snyder and Korns hope to have the dogs registered by Keystone Pet Enhanced Therapy Services, or KPETS, a local, non-profit organization that coordinates therapy visits with hospitals, schools and rehabilitation centers.
KPETS founder Karen Gerth told CBS 21 News Sports Director Jason Bristol that a college campus is the perfect place to train these dogs; because they're exposed to so many different types of people.
Once the animals complete the training, they'll be able to help and encourage the sick; the injured and the elderly.
"And I think its the same thing with my college team," said Lebanon Valley coach Lauren Salerno. "These kids go through a lot of stress."
Nothing beats that stress, either, like some puppy love, according to the players.
"(It's) something to look forward to in-between drills; when you're not a having a great day at practice," said Snyder, who wants to become an occupational therapist.
Lebanon Valley's opponents love the dogs, as well.
Sometimes Daisy and Linus simply follow the action on the field; they've also been a part of it, too.
"I think Linus has gotten hit with a few to many balls to really enjoy the sport," joked Korns.
"He's kind of afraid," added Snyder. "He's been hit a few times."
But it's all basic training for two future therapy dogs.
Soccer often builds leaders. Korns and Snyder are happy just grooming helpers.
