What inspired you to be a coach?
I have grown up in and around the pool, so it seemed like a natural progression to be on the other side of it. I have always had a deep love for swimming and I am so excited to be able to give back to young swimmers, as my coaches did for me growing up.

How long have you been coaching?
This is my first year coaching with AC.

Can you share a bit of your background in the sport?
I first started swimming competitively when I was 7, and from there I’ve always had an appreciation for the sport. I was originally a swimmer with this team way back when it was Westside Aquaducks. I swam competitively through high school and have been working around the pool in some capacity ever since.

What is your coaching philosophy?
Technique above all else. I believe strong technique is the foundation of success and should be emphasized at every stage of a swimmer’s development. My goal is to help swimmers understand not only how to perform a skill, but why it matters and how it contributes to their overall performance. I believe in building strong fundamentals, reinforcing good habits, and making adjustments as swimmers grow and advance. By creating an environment that values patience, and consistency, swimmers can develop the skills and confidence needed to reach their potential.

What is your role in a young person's life?
I want all my swimmers to not just enjoy, but look forward to coming to practice. It is most important to me that they are engaged and having a great time working hard. I hope to build a solid foundation where they can bring whatever is troubling them to the pool and leave it out there by the end of the day. Swimming as a sport is great, wherein you can bring your troubles and emotions, and channel them into something productive. Knowing that I can make a positive impact on someone's life is what makes coaching such a rewarding experience.

Can you speak to a rewarding experience you have had in coaching?
One of the most rewarding experiences I have had as a swim coach is watching a swimmer gain confidence and achieve a goal they once thought was impossible. Through patience, encouragement, and consistent practice, I help them gradually improve and believe in themselves. Seeing a swimmer finally master a skill or complete their first race makes me feel proud and accomplished. I realize that my role as a coach goes beyond teaching swimming techniques; I am also helping swimmers develop confidence, perseverance, and a love for the sport.

What does success mean to you?
Success in swimming is about much more than winning races or earning medals. It is seeing swimmers improve their skills, gain confidence, and develop a positive attitude toward swimming. Success looks like: helping each swimmer reach their personal goals, overcome challenges, and learn the importance of hard work, patience, and teamwork. I consider myself successful when my swimmers feel supported, enjoy the sport, and become more confident both in and out of the pool.

What are your goals for the team?
My goals for the team are: to help swimmers build confidence, improve their swimming skills, and develop a love for the sport. I want to create a positive and supportive environment where every swimmer feels comfortable learning, making mistakes, and trying new things. I also want to teach them the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, discipline, and perseverance. I want my swimmers to set their own personal goals, celebrate their progress, and feel proud of their accomplishments.

What is your favorite Petaluma restaurant?
I am not sure if this counts, but I cannot say no to anything off the menu at the El Roy’s food truck.