Swim Warriors
2025 seasonal Team
ABBIE HILCHIE
Third Year Instructor
Hi everyone! My name is Abbie Hilchie, and I’m currently a sophomore at Brigham Young University in Utah, originally from Georgia. I’m a pre-business major with aspirations to pursue a career in experience design — with the goal of helping others (and myself!) live more meaningful, fulfilling lives.
I have a deep love for the outdoors and especially the water. I swam competitively from the age of 4 through my senior year of high school and also spent many years playing soccer, as well as running cross country and track.
In high school, I completed an Early Childhood Education pathway and interned in a special education Pre-K classroom — an experience that truly impacted me. I’ve had the privilege of working with both children and adults with special needs through babysitting, volunteering, and church activities, which has only deepened my passion for connection, empathy, and service.
Professionally, I’ve worked as a lifeguard, supported local swim teams, helped on farms, and volunteered at food banks and senior care centers. Each of these roles has reinforced my belief in the power of community and personal growth.
ANNALISE BRADFORD
Second Year Instructor
ARE
BLISS
Second Year Instructor
AVA BOULDIN
Second Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Ava Bouldin
I am currently a student at the University of Georgia pursuing a degree in Management Information Systems at the Terry College of Business. I am actively involved in UGA Club Competition Cheerleading and the Student Council Leadership Association (SCLA).
For the past two years, I have worked with Swim Warriors, where I have had the opportunity to teach and mentor children of all ages and skill levels. Having been a competitive swimmer for 15 years, I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and love for the sport with the students I teach.
AVI ALEXANDER
Fourth Year Instructor
Hi! I’m Avi Alexander, a third-year Swim Warriors instructor, and I’m so excited for another amazing summer!
This fall, I’ll begin my freshman year at the University of Georgia, majoring in Exercise Science. A lifelong love for kids and swimming is what led me to join the Swim Warriors family. Swimming has been a big part of my life since age five, when I joined a summer swim team. From there, I swam full-time for seven years and competed on the Forsyth Central High School varsity swim team. Being in the water has always felt like home. I’m certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid for both adults and pediatrics through the American Red Cross. As the oldest of four siblings, caring for children has always come naturally. Over the past three summers with Swim Warriors, I’ve had the opportunity to work with children from 6 months to 14 years old — including those with disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, and cerebral palsy.
Helping kids grow more confident in the water and watching their progress week by week is truly rewarding. Building strong connections with swimmers and making lessons fun and safe are always top priorities.
​Looking forward to meeting your swimmer and helping them gain a skill they'll use for life!
CAMRYN MEKAL
First Year Instructor
Hi everyone! My name is Camryn Mekal, and I’m excited to be starting my journey as a first-year swim instructor!
I recently completed my freshman year at Georgia Tech, where I’m pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering. With a strong passion for working with children, my long-term goal is to apply my education toward a career in pediatrics.
I graduated from North Forsyth High School, where I was actively involved in the soccer program and served as team captain during both my junior and senior years. One of my favorite experiences was coaching at the program’s youth summer camp — getting to share my love for the sport and mentor younger players was incredibly rewarding.
Some of my best summer memories have always involved the water — whether it was swimming or just spending time by the pool with friends. Now, I’m thrilled to be able to create those same kinds of joyful experiences for others through swim instruction.
I’m truly excited to be part of the Swim Warriors team and look forward to helping young swimmers grow in confidence, safety, and skill!
CAROLINE LANTIS
First Year Instructor
Hey, my name is Caroline!
With over 15 years of experience as a swimmer and five years as a coach, I’ve developed a lifelong passion for the water and a deep understanding of its power to build confidence, discipline, and joy. From a young age, swimming has been a central part of my life—not just as a sport, but as a place where I’ve grown personally and connected with others.
Throughout my coaching journey, I’ve worked with swimmers of all ages and skill levels, and I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to create an encouraging, patient, and supportive environment—especially for children. I’m passionate about making sure every swimmer feels safe, seen, and empowered in the water, regardless of their background or ability.
Joining the Swim Warriors team is an incredible opportunity for me to combine my love of swimming with my commitment to making a positive impact. I’m excited to be part of a program that values inclusion, celebrates progress, and focuses on helping each swimmer reach their full potential—both in and out of the pool. I can’t wait to share my enthusiasm for swimming and continue growing alongside this amazing community.
CAROLINE SCHARFF
Second Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Miss Caroline, and I’m currently a sophomore at the College of William & Mary, where I am a member of the women’s swim team. I am pursuing a double major in Kinesiology and Neuroscience, with plans to attend Physical Therapy school after completing my undergraduate studies.
Outside of swimming, I have a passion for the outdoors and enjoy activities such as hiking, running, and kayaking. I am also actively involved in my church and participate in two campus ministry organizations: Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and InterVarsity.
I have been a part of Swim Warriors since 2023 and have truly enjoyed every moment. As someone who grew up immersed in the sport of swimming, it’s incredibly rewarding to help others develop a love for the water. I have experience working with swimmers of all ages and abilities, including those with Down syndrome, Autism, and Angelman syndrome. I’m thrilled to be part of such an impactful and inspiring program!
CHARLOTTE BURT
First Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Charlotte Burt, and I am currently a student at the University of Alabama, majoring in Communicative Disorders. This past summer was my first with Swim Warriors, and it was an incredibly rewarding experience. Prior to that, I spent several summers coaching for the Windermere Waves summer league swim team, where my own passion for swimming first began at the age of five.
I swam competitively throughout high school as a member of the South Forsyth High School varsity swim team, serving as team captain during my senior year.
In addition to my involvement in swimming, I am actively engaged in community service through Browns Bridge Church and Mentor Me North Georgia.Spending my summers on the lake or in the pool has fueled my love for the outdoors and the water.
Through Swim Warriors, my goal is to help each child feel confident, safe, and empowered in and around the water. I’m excited to be part of a program that fosters both skill development and a lifelong love for swimming!
COURTNEY SCALI
Fourth Year Instructor
Hi Swim Families!
My name is Courtney Scali, and I’m excited to begin my fifth year as a swim instructor with Swim Warriors! I love building strong relationships with my swimmers while creating a safe, supportive, and fun learning environment.
I’m currently a junior nursing major at Georgia College & State University, with plans to pursue a career in labor and delivery nursing. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, going to church, shopping, and spending time with my friends and family—especially by the water! Whether it’s a lake, pool, or ocean, I take every chance I can to be in or around water.
I’ve had the privilege of working with swimmers of all ages—from six months old to competitive-level athletes—as well as with various abilities, including autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, and non-verbal swimmers. My goal is to make each child’s experience with swimming positive, empowering, and fun, while helping them become the best and safest swimmer they can be.
I’m also First Aid/CPR/AED certified for adults, children, and infants through the American Red Cross.
I’m so grateful to continue being part of the Swim Warriors team and can’t wait to work with your child this season!
EMILY DURAND
First Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
GRACIE MORRIS
First Year Instructor
Hi! I’m Gracie Morris, also known as “Miss Gracie,” and I’m a first-year swim instructor at Swim Warriors.
I’m passionate about helping kids build confidence and essential water safety skills in a fun, supportive environment. I’ve always loved being in the water—whether it’s the pool, lake, or ocean—and I’m excited to share that enthusiasm with my students.
With experience working with children of all ages, including those with special needs, I focus on creating engaging, personalized lessons that meet each swimmer’s unique needs. I strive to make every lesson fun, encouraging, and confidence-boosting.
I’m currently a sophomore at the University of Georgia studying Dietetics, and I’m actively involved on campus through Gamma Phi Beta and the Wellness Society. My interest in health and wellness goes hand in hand with my commitment to helping kids lead active, healthy lives.
I’m thrilled to be part of the Swim Warriors team and look forward to an amazing season of growth, fun, and swimming success!
GRACYN RUNION
Fourth Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
HANNAH PERRY
Second Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Hannah Perry
I’m currently a freshman at the University of Georgia. For the past three summers, I’ve had the pleasure of working as a swim instructor at Swim Warriors, a role I absolutely love. I’ve also served as a coach for the Polo Warriors summer league swim team over the past two summers, which has been an incredibly fun and fulfilling experience.
Before college, I swam competitively for seven years, and I’m passionate about sharing that love for swimming with the kids I teach. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been the opportunity to work with children with autism, which has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
At UGA, I’m actively involved in several organizations that I enjoy, including UGA Miracle, Greek Life, and the Run Club. I’m so grateful for the chance to introduce myself, and I look forward to meeting you soon!
Best regards,
Hannah Perry
KATHRYN MERCK
Fourth Year Instructor
Coming soon
KENDAL GRATTAN
Second Year Instructor
Hi! I’m Kendal Grattan
This is my first year as an instructor at Swim Warriors! I’m so excited to kick off the season and work with our amazing team and swimmers.
I’ve grown up on Lake Lanier and have always been involved in watersports. I was a sprint kayaker with LCKC, a dragon boat coach, and have coached kids new to paddling. I’ve competed nationally and internationally with Team USA Canoe and Kayak, and swimming has always been part of my training — so I’m very comfortable in the water and love teaching others to enjoy it too!
Outside of the water, I’m in my second year at the University of Georgia, studying Ecology. This summer, I studied tropical ecosystems in Costa Rica as part of a field program. I’m also involved in UGA’s rock climbing club, Fair Fashion, and volunteer at UGArden, our organic farm.
I have several years of experience working with kids of all ages and abilities — as a babysitter, coach, and through the Peer Buddies Program supporting kids with special needs. I’m CPR/AED, First Aid, and SafeSitter certified.
I can’t wait for a fun, safe, and exciting summer with the Swim Warriors family!
KENZIE THORNTON
Second Year Instructor
Hey, I'm Kenzie Thornton!
I attend the University of Georgia, where I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Management. Throughout my time in school, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with several children with autism as well as nonverbal swimmers, helping them develop confidence and skills both in and out of the water. Over the past year, I have been part of the Swim Warriors program, completing four full sessions. This experience has taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of creating a supportive environment where every child can thrive and reach their goals.
KYLIE ANDERSON
Third Year Instructor
Hello, my name is Kylie Anderson.
I am currently in my third year as a swim instructor with Swim Warriors, where I have had the rewarding opportunity to work with children of all abilities, including those with Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and Autism. I am pursuing a Dual Certification degree in Elementary Education at Georgia Southern University. Outside of work and academics, I enjoy spending time with friends and relaxing by watching my favorite TV shows.
MARIANNE
ZERRATE
Second Year Instructor
Hi, I’m Marianne Zerrate, a senior in high school and returning for my third year as a Swim Warriors instructor. I’m excited for another great summer!
Outside of teaching, I enjoy swimming, flag football, playing guitar, and baking. At school, I serve as an officer in the French Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and National Beta Club. I plan to study biomedical engineering in college.
Swim Warriors has been a life-changing experience. Working with kids of all ages—including those with autism and Down syndrome—has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I'm grateful to be part of this amazing program!
MATTIE MASSENGILL
Second Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Mattie,
I’m currently a junior at the University of Tennessee, majoring in Kinesiology. I’ve always had a passion for being in the water and working with children, so being part of the Swim Warriors team has been the perfect fit for me.
I feel incredibly fortunate to help children not only learn how to swim but also overcome their fears in the water. It’s such a rewarding experience to be part of their growth and confidence-building journey.
In high school, I was active on both the swim and soccer teams while also working for Swim Warriors. I was also involved in several organizations including HOSA, FCCLA, CTAE, and BETA, which helped shape my leadership and teamwork skills.
I’m excited to continue doing what I love and can’t wait to work with you and your family!
Best regards,
Mattie
SABRINA
REX
First Year Instructor
Hey I'm Sabrina,
I'm a sophomore at Belmont University, studying Music Business with a minor in Production. As a lifelong swimmer and runner, I love sharing my passion for the water by teaching and coaching children of all ages, including those with ADHD and on the spectrum. Outside the pool, I'm a full-time performing singer-songwriter based in Nashville, TN, where I continue to grow both as an artist and a mentor.