Surf's Up Swim Programs
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
Leo R.
With over five years of experience teaching swim lessons, Coach Leo has been with Surf’s Up since the very beginning, helping shape the program into what it is today. A proud graduate of Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Leo brings both energy and expertise to every lesson. His fun and outgoing personality creates an engaging, confidence-building environment for kiddos of all ages and levels — from first-time swimmers to those perfecting their technique. Coach Leo’s passion for swimming and dedication to his students make every session enjoyable, safe, and full of progress. Secure your spot with Leo and experience lessons that are as motivating as they are memorable!

Instructor - Westchester
Abigail S
With eight years of competitive swimming experience and over four years of teaching swimmers of all ages, Coach Abigail brings a thoughtful, engaging, and safety-focused approach to every lesson. She specializes in helping younger children build water confidence through clear communication, empathy, and a strong emphasis on water safety. For older swimmers, Abigail focuses on developing proper stroke technique early, setting the foundation for lifelong swimming skills.
Her lessons are filled with variety and fun, incorporating games and interactive activities to keep students engaged while they learn. Outside the pool, Abigail is an actress, avid horseback rider, and advanced open water diver—always finding new ways to embrace adventure both in and out of the water.

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
Coach Jamie has been in the water for as long as she can remember and teaching kids to swim has always felt like a natural extension of that love. With over 10 years of experience teaching infants, toddlers, and children of all ages, she brings a calm and welcoming energy while encouraging swimmers to grow their skills. She emphasizes both safety and confidence, creating lessons that are supportive, fun, and full of progress. When she’s not teaching, Jamie is usually surfing or spending time by the ocean