Our Staff
Meet the swim team.
All STRIDE swim instructors are First Aid/CPR/AED (automated external defibrillator) certified, for which they received individualized training based on guidelines and updates from the American Heart Association.
STRIDE swim instructors also receive sexual harassment training, mandated reporter training and undergo mandatory background checks.
Our instructors are also trained in infant self-rescue, and many are lifeguard-certified.
Tess
Administration
Hi! I’m Tess, I’m an administrator here, so I’ll be helping with scheduling, emails, and anything else you might need. I’ve been with the company since 2024 and love working with the families in our program!
I’m a rising sophomore at Washington University in St. Louis, studying Chemistry. I enjoy getting to know people, so if you have any questions, feel free to reach out or give me a call, I’m always happy to help!
Shelly
Hi I'm Shelly and I will be helping out with scheduling this summer... Yes I'm the Executive Directors Mom and Yes I'm an unpaid volunteer but I love helping my son out! I’m married with two crazy amazing children, and I’ve loved the water since by mother taught me how to swim. I spend some of my down time in Florida at the beach and I actually have an “in your face orange” home in Florida. I love music, volunteering and exploring and I’m very partial to traveling with my hard-working husband, John.
Destiny
Hi everyone! I’m Destiny — a lifelong water lover and experienced swim trainer with over 5 years of competitive swimming under my belt. I even spent two years doing synchronized swimming! Teaching both kids and adults this fun (and essential!) life skill is something I truly enjoy. Outside the pool, I’m currently studying acting and also work as an actor, model, and dancer. I'm excited to connect, grow, and get to know you all!
Lydia((like “lead ya by the hand”)
Hi! I’m Lidya (like “lead ya by the hand”). I was born and raised in South Florida, so I practically grew up in my backyard pool. From working at a children’s art museum to substituting in various schools, I have a lot of experience working with kids of all ages and have loved every minute of it. Kiddos are the future, and I’m very passionate about creating a safe and positive environment for them to learn and grow. Outside of coaching, I love to write and direct films, play kickball with my friends and read!
Namika
Hi, I'm Namika (on the left). I've been swimming competitively since I started high school. I also discovered water polo freshman year and have fallen in love with the sport. I love being in the water any chance I get, and I am excited to meet everyone!
Oswaldo
My name is Oswaldo Rivas. I am currently a grad student at Southern California University of Health Sciences. Swimming has been a passion since high school. I was trained as a life guard and have had the opportunity to teach swim to students of all ages.