Swim Warriors INC
Swim Warriors
2026 seasonal Team
ARÄ’ BLISS
Third Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Arē Bliss. I am a proud nursing student at the University of North Georgia, and am just a year away from my BSN. Outside of school my hobbies include spending time with my family and their seven dogs!I've been with swim warriors for over two years now and it's been the most rewarding experience to watch children of all ages, sizes, and capabilities succeed in the pool. I was a competitive swimmer for 8 years, so while safety always comes first, I'm happy to get to pass along my long time love of the water! I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
AVI ALEXANDER
Fifth Year Instructor
Hi! I’m Avi Alexander, a fifth year Swim Warriors instructor, and I’m so excited for another amazing summer!
This fall, I’ll begin my junior 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 and was the captain 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 f 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! I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
BROOKE SWEET
Second Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Brooke Sweet
I’m currently a senior at Forsyth Central High School, graduating in May 2026.
I’ve been a lifelong gymnast at Incoming Gymnastics, where I’ve developed discipline, focus, and a strong work ethic. At school, I stay active by participating in cross country, diving, track, and gymnastics. I also serve as an officer in our DECA chapter, which has provided me with valuable experience in leadership, collaboration, and communication.
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Working with children is something I genuinely enjoy. Whether they’re just beginning their journey or continuing to build their skills, I strive to create a positive, encouraging environment for every child. I’ve also had the privilege of working with children with ADHD, Autism, and Down Syndrome—each experience has been incredibly rewarding and meaningful. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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My goal in every lesson is to support, motivate, and help each child progress while making sure they have fun along the way. I look forward to meeting your child and helping them grow and gain confidence in the water!
BENTLEY STOVER
First Year Instructor
My name is Bentley Stover. I am a finance major at the University of North Georgia. I worked as a lifeguard for three years, which gave me a passion for wanting to teach kids how to swim. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid for children and adults through The American Heart Association. My goal is to be able to help everybody to grow confident in the water!
EESHA SURYADEVARA
First Year Instructor
Hi! My name is Eesha, and I’m a first-year swim instructor at Swim Warriors. I’ve always loved working with kids, and I really enjoyed volunteering here last year, so I’m excited to return as an instructor. I’m currently a rising junior at South Forsyth High School, where I’m part of the Swim & Dive team and involved in HOSA and FBLA. I’ve been taking swim lessons since I was 3 and started swimming competitively at 10, so being in the water has always been a big part of my life. I’m excited to share that passion with others and help kids build confidence while learning to love the water just as much as I do.
GRACIE MORRIS
Second Year Instructor
Hi! I’m Gracie Morris, also known as “Miss Gracie,” and I’m a second 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 am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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
Fifth 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. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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
HARPER DUSSOUY
Second Year Instructor
Hey I'm Harper,
I graduated from Dawson County High School, and am going to Catawba College. I am in my second year as a swim instructor. I have a strong background in childcare, having babysat children of various age groups since I was young. Growing up on the lake has fostered a deep passion for being on the water, which has naturally translated into my enthusiasm for teaching children how to swim.
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In addition to my role as a swim instructor, I am actively involved in my school and community. I participate in varsity soccer and flag football and am a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).​
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In my free time, I enjoy spending time on the lake with friends and family, as well as playing soccer. My family has always been my greatest support system, and I am especially grateful for my parents’ unwavering encouragement in everything I pursue. I also have two younger siblings with whom I cherish making new memories.I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association
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I am excited to be a part of Swim Warriors and look forward to contributing to the program's success while helping others learn and grow in their swimming abilities.
EMILY DURAND
First Year Instructor
Hi! My name is Emily Durand, I’m a sophomore psychology major at Mercer University in Macon, GA. I’m hoping to get my doctorate with a focus in abnormal child psychology, so I can help kids and their families better navigate life with some challenging disorders. I love kids, and I love teaching swim! I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.​
JAYDEN RIMOLDI
First 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. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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
HARPER DUSSOUY
Second Year Instructor
Hey I'm Harper,
I graduated from Dawson County High School, and am going to Catawba College. I am in my second year as a swim instructor. I have a strong background in childcare, having babysat children of various age groups since I was young. Growing up on the lake has fostered a deep passion for being on the water, which has naturally translated into my enthusiasm for teaching children how to swim.
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In addition to my role as a swim instructor, I am actively involved in my school and community. I participate in varsity soccer and flag football and am a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).​
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In my free time, I enjoy spending time on the lake with friends and family, as well as playing soccer. My family has always been my greatest support system, and I am especially grateful for my parents’ unwavering encouragement in everything I pursue. I also have two younger siblings with whom I cherish making new memories.I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association
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I am excited to be a part of Swim Warriors and look forward to contributing to the program's success while helping others learn and grow in their swimming abilities.
KACEY STRAUB
First Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
KAMI STRAUB
First Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
KATHRYN MERCK
Fourth Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
KAITLYN CHANEY
First Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
MCKAYLA TEAM
First Year Instructor
Coming Soon...
KATHRYN TEMPLETON
First Year Instructor
Hello! My name is Kathryn Templeton,
I am currently a senior at North Forsyth High School. My background in gymnastics has given me the opportunity to experience a variety of coaching styles, which I incorporate into my own teaching and leadership every day.
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At school, I stay actively involved through participation in swimming, diving, gymnastics, and lacrosse. I’m honored to serve as Vice President of my class and to be engaged in several student organizations and clubs. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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Working with children has always been a passion of mine. I teach swim lessons, coach gymnastics, and have the privilege of supporting students with special needs at my school. I am thrilled to be a part of the Swim Warriors family, where I can continue to grow as a coach and make a positive impact in the lives of the children I work with.
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. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
LILY PANKONIN
First Year Instructor
I am a nursing student at the University of North Georgia with a passion for working with children. My goal is to become a pediatric nurse at CHOA after graduating. I am CPR/AED/First Aid certified, and I’m excited to help swimmers build confidence and water safety skills through Swim Warriors.
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!
I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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 am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
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
MEREDITH BREHM
Second Year Instructor
coming soon...
MARIAN STAPLETON
First Year Instructor
Hello, my name is Marian Stapleton,
I’m thrilled to be a part of Swim Warriors! Swimming has always been a passion of mine—I swam competitively for five years and continue to enjoy the sport recreationally. In my free time, I enjoy reading, swimming, and spending time with friends.​ I am currently a student at West Forsyth High School, where I’m actively involved in FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes). I also enjoy giving back to my community by volunteering at my church and assisting my mom in her classroom, where she teaches.I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
​My long-term goal is to become an emergency room nurse. Through Swim Warriors, I’ve had the rewarding opportunity to work with swimmers with autism and cerebral palsy. This experience has taught me the value of patience, compassion, and the importance of celebrating every milestone, no matter how small.
PEYTON BAGGETT
First Year Instructor
Hey everyone! My name is Peyton, I am a first-year swim instructor at Swim Warriors. I love working with kids and loved the experience of being able to work with them last year alongside a couple of great swim instructors as a junior instructor. I started out by receiving lessons from Swim Warriors when they were first starting up and I am so excited to be able to work with them now! At South Forsyth High School I am a rising junior and have been running track since my freshman year. I am currently involved in FCCLA and Student Council, which have both taught me leadership skills and how to think quick on my feet. In FCCLA I am currently the VP of Community Service. I have always been in love with water whether it's the beach, lake, or pool and I cannot wait to share my passion with the kids I teach. I am so excited to help each swimmer grow their skills and love for swimming. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
PAITON COBB
First Year Instructor
coming soon...
RILEY LOFTUS
Second Year Instructor
coming soon...
RAMSEY SMITH
First Year Instructor
My name is Ramsey Smith
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I am currently a student at Dawson County High School. I enjoy staying active through sports, spending time with family and friends, attending church, and being out on the lake. I participate in flag football, basketball, and track, all of which have helped me develop strong skills in teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
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In addition to athletics, I am actively involved in several student organizations, including FCCLA, FCA, FBLA, HOSA, National Honor Society, and Beta Club. I also volunteer monthly with the EPIC community, where I engage with individuals with special needs through meaningful activities such as shared meals and water days at the park.
These experiences have shaped my passion for helping others and inspired my goal of attending college to pursue a degree in nursing. I am committed to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. I am certified in CPR/AED/First Aid in adult and pediatrics through the American Heart Association.
SUMMER GOULDING
Second Year Instructor
Hi friends!!
My name is Summer Goulding and this will be my second year as a seasonal swim instructor! I graduated from East Forsyth High School in 2023, and am now about to graduate from Acaydia Spa and School of Aesthetics in Provo, Utah with my Master’s Estheticians license! I am so excited to start my career in esthetics, but just had to come back for another season teaching swim lessons!! I have loved every single second of my time swim instructing.
I love all forms of physical activity, but especially soccer, going to the gym, and of course, swimming. Engaging in physical activities with my friends and family are some of my biggest core memories. I am apart of a big family, so I have a ton of experience babysitting/being around children. I have experience with all ages of kids (from newborns to tweens). I also have experience with children with special needs! I am CPR, AED, and first aid certified through the Red Cross so I can promise to keep your child safe. I absolutely love being apart of the progress of every single one of my students and seeing the excitement they feel when they learn something new! It puts the biggest smile on my face, every single time. I enjoy building relationships with kids and being someone they can fully trust, have fun with, and learn from.
One of my biggest passions in life is being in the water, whether it’s the lake, pool, or ocean. I grew up on the lake, so I’d always spend every second of free time I have there. I have always been at my absolute happiest when I am in water, so I am super excited to spread that joy and love of water to your kids! I will keep your kids safe, and teach them how to keep themselves safe, while also emphasizing how fun and happy being in the water is! This is the most rewarding job ever, so I am honored to be apart of this amazing program and apart of your kid's swim journey. I can’t wait to meet you all! See you at the pool! :)
WILL BALES
First Year Instructor
coming soon...