Meet the Team

Instructor - Westchester
Sam S.
With over four years of experience as a lifeguard, Coach Sam has built a solid foundation in water safety and aquatic instruction. Recently, she has further enhanced her skillset by training as a swim instructor with Surfs Up, starting earlier this year. Her expertise in water safety makes her proficient in teaching children of all ages and skill levels—from beginners taking their first splash to those perfecting their strokes. Known for her patience, kindness, and caring nature, Coach Sam now offers her very own private lessons, providing an ideal environment to gain confidence and make the most out of every pool session. Make sure you secure your spot and enjoy a truly enriching experience with her!

Instructor - Westchester
Aden M.
Dive into success with Coach Aden Mina. Aden recently graduated from Loyola Marymount University, where he excelled as a Division I water polo player, Coach Aden brings two years of swim instruction experience to every lesson.
With a lifelong passion for water sports, Coach Aden has been swimming and playing water polo since the age of 8. He loves being in the water, whether in a pool or the ocean, and enjoys teaching kids to swim, play water polo, surf, and feel comfortable in the water. Aden is also CPR/AED/First Aid certified.
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Coach Aden has experience coaching all types of levels and ages, and he is excited to meet and coach all the future stars that join our program.
Make a splash with Coach Aden and achieve your swimming goals together!

Instructor - Westchester
Ida J.
Coach Ida brings over a decade of swim coaching experience to the pool, with 10 years as a dedicated summer swim coach and 2 years as a trained military lifeguard. Born and raised in Vadstena, Sweden, she is currently studying abroad in Los Angeles. Ida’s background in both competitive and safety-focused aquatic settings makes her especially skilled at working with swimmers of all levels—from young beginners to those refining advanced techniques. Her calm, confident approach and warm, encouraging demeanor help swimmers feel safe and motivated. Whether you’re diving in for the first time or looking to level up your skills, Coach Ida offers personalized private lessons designed to build strength, technique, and a lifelong love for swimming. Don’t miss the chance to train with her this season!

Instructor - Westchester
Arlan Y.
Dive in with Coach Arlan! With a rich background in aquatics and water safety, Coach Arlan brings over five years of swim instruction experience to every lesson. As a former competitive swimmer from ages 5 to 18, Coach Arlan understands the dedication and techniques needed to excel in the water. Certified in lifeguarding, CPR, and SCUBA, Coach Arlan ensures a safe and engaging environment for swimmers of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to refine your skills, Coach Arlan is here to help you make waves. Jump in and discover your love for swimming with Coach Arlan!

Instructor - Westchester
James O.
Coach James brings seven years of experience as a swim coach, instructor, and lifeguard, with a strong foundation in aquatic sports since 2017. He founded Odle’s Swim School in 2023 and excels in helping children who are apprehensive or nervous in the water. Raised in Santa Clara, California, James began his teaching journey by volunteering in a high school community service program, where he taught special education kids and teens how to swim and play water polo over three summers. Now a senior at Loyola Marymount University, James continues to hone his skills, teaching swimmers of all levels while balancing his academic responsibilities.

Instructor - Westchester
Brad Diaz
Coach Brad is a rising senior at the University of Arizona and a former competitive swimmer with over a decade of experience in the water. He began teaching swim lessons in high school and has worked with swimmers of all ages through club and community programs. Originally from Southern California, Brad is also a certified ocean and pool lifeguard with CPR, AED, and First Aid training. Outside of lessons, he loves surfing and spending time in the ocean. Brad brings patience, energy, and strong technique to every class, creating a fun, safe space for swimmers to grow.

Instructor - Westchester
Cayla L
Coach Cayla is a Boston native with over nine years of experience as a lifeguard, swim instructor, and aquatic program lead. Now based in sunny California, she combines her background in childcare and teaching with a deep passion for helping kids grow confident and joyful in the water. A lifelong swimmer, Cayla loves spending time at the beach, paddle boarding, exploring vegan spots, and going to concerts. She brings warmth, creativity, and encouragement to every lesson, making swimming a fun and empowering experience for every child.

Instructor - Westchester
Jamie C
With over ten years of experience teaching swim lessons across California and Central America, Coach Jamie brings a unique combination of playfulness, patience, and strong aquatic expertise to every lesson. She has taught at private swim schools, lifeguarded for city programs, and led community-based swim classes abroad—all with one goal in mind: helping children feel safe, confident, and joyful in the water.
Coach Jamie’s approach is gentle yet clear, and she takes the time to build real connections with each swimmer. She believes every child can learn to swim with the right guidance and support. Now offering her own private lessons with Surfs Up, Coach Jamie creates a positive, fun, and safe learning environment for every child. Secure your spot and experience the difference of lessons with Coach Jamie!