Meet our Swim Instructors

Kay

How long she’s been at the Y: Started in April 2019
 
Favorite thing about teaching: “Getting to watch kids grow as swimmers.”
 
Favorite Stroke: Freestyle

Jorge

How long he’s been at the Y: Started in April 2018
 
Favorite thing about teaching: “Seeing the smiles of the children when they manage to develop a new skill in the water is something very gratifying!”
 
Favorite Stroke: Butterfly
 
Additional Info: Native Spanish Speaker

Rachel

How long she’s been at the Y: Started working at the Lakewood YMCA in June 2021, and at the Skagit Y in February 2024, been teaching swim lessons since November 2021
 
Favorite thing about teaching: “Being in the water and seeing kids grow into stronger, more confident swimmers.”
 
Favorite Stroke: Backstroke
 
Additional Info: “I did gymnastics for 10 years and used to coach it!”

Crystal

How long she’s been at the Y: Started working at the Y in June 2017, started teaching swim lessons November 2023
 
Favorite thing about teaching: “Helping youth and their caregivers understand the importance of always asking permission to enter the water no matter how strong of a swimmer they are. Safety first!”
 
Favorite Stroke: Breaststroke
 
Additional Info: “As a mother I had the privilege to be the teacher aid then lead preschool teacher while my children were that age, so many fun memories! I’ve coached a verity of sports that include softball, soccer and running. As a fitness instructor I’ve worked with a wide range of ages and absolutely love teaching a cycling class. Currently attending school full time to become a physical therapist.”

Annabelle

How long she’s been at the Y: Starting working at the Y July 2023, started teaching swim lessons February 2024
 
Favorite thing about teaching: “Being able to keep kids safe and having fun.”
 
Favorite Stroke: Elementary Backstroke
 
Additional Info: “I have some understanding of ASL (American sign language), its not completely but if done slow I could hold a relatively small conversation.”