Tampa Bay Swim Instructors & Lifeguards
Florida Swim Company offers the best private, swim lessons in the Tampa Bay area, taught by an elite group of certified and insured swim coaches. No need to leave your home – Your personal swim teacher will teach all swimming classes in the comfort of your home or community pool. All swim instructors have years of experience teaching infants, toddlers, children and adult swim lessons – all at various skill levels. Our goal is to provide a fun, yet challenging learning environment without the distraction of group lessons. We pride ourselves on providing you the most qualified and professional instructor.
You can read more about your Tampa Swim Instructor below:
Shelby
Shelby has been teaching swim lessons since 2014 for 10 years! Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, she took swimming lessons until the age of 12. At age 16 she received her Lifeguarding and Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification through American Red Cross. Throughout the years she has taught over 2,000+ clients (both public and private) from ages 6 months through 70 years. She has experience working with students that have various disabilities such as non-verbal, blindness, autism, and more. She has taught at over 7 facilities and for 4 school districts. Shelby loves working with children and cannot wait to get connected with families around her new home. She would love the opportunity to help your child learn how to swim!! Shelby is currently certified in CPR and is also a certified Water Safety Instructor.
Kathleen
Kathleen swam competitively on a state, regional, and national level for 10 plus years and was her varsity high school swim team captain; from the age of 15, she was a lifeguard, private lesson instructor, and coach at various local parks / country clubs in Michigan. After attending the University of Michigan (BA), she was certified as a Water Safety Instructor (WSI) and remained active in Master’s swimming and private instruction until moving to Chicago for graduate school. After receiving her MA from Northwestern, Kathleen built a 20-year career in operations management, specifically in higher education and non-profit environments in the Chicago area. She also remained active in swimming, instructing friends & family, and participating in master’s programs throughout the area. In 2016, Kathleen returned to aquatics professionally. Working with the YWCA Evanston North Shore, she instructed both group classes and private swim clients, certified new lifeguards for the organization, coached age group and Master’s swimmers, and prior to relocating to Tampa, served as the Interim Aquatics Manager. Kathleen is an American Red Cross certified Lifeguard (with First Aid and AED), Lifeguarding Instructor, WSI (Water Safety Instructor), and USS Swimming Age Group and Master’s Coach. Kathleen also plans to be certified as an ACE fitness personal trainer by 2024.
Madeleine AKA Maddy
Maddy worked at her hometown YMCA in Naperville, Illinois as a swim instructor for 3 years before moving to West Lafayette, Indiana to complete her undergraduate studies at Purdue University. She taught all levels of the YMCA swim curriculum, which ranged in age from 6 months to 8th grade! She also has experience in private lessons teaching various ages from grade school to adult age. Maddy has experience with teaching swim lessons to children with disabilities and special needs and is always striving to create lessons that help each student reach their individual goals. She is a graduate of Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and is excited to get into the teaching world!
Allison
Allison has always had a passion for swimming and as a kid, she never wanted to get out of the pool. She loves the beach, and exploring Florida and is originally from Philadelphia, PA. Allison started out lifeguarding in 2014, and continued for years after that, adding swim lessons to her experience as well. She has been a lifeguard at country clubs, Adventure Island, and has taught swim full-time at a preschool (3-6y/o) and at Tampa Bay Turners from toddlers to teens. She has also taught private lessons. She joined the swim team in high school, and really enjoyed the challenge of doing the best she can. Now, she enjoys teaching others valuable skills such as water safety and swimming when given the chance. Allison is actively CPR and AED certified.
Justus
Justus has always had a love for swimming, starting when he learned to swim, at age 5, and into high school where he began to swim competitively. Since 2021, Justus has been teaching Learn to Swim, Parent child aquatics 1 & 2, beginners swim and intermediate swim. Justus has a love for teaching children and adults of all levels and capabilities and also holds a RBT certification which specializes in Behavior analysis for those with autism and other developmental disabilities. Justus is currently certified in Water Safety Instructor, Lifeguarding, CPR, AED and First Aid.
Therese
Therese has been teaching and coaching swimming for over 40 years. She swam on scholarship at the University of Tampa. Upon graduating, she returned to her home state of MD where she developed her swimming portfolio. She has taught in private, group, and team settings with summer programs, swim clinics, and masters programs. She has worked with all ages and abilities from beginner up to Olympic Trials qualifiers. Therese has coached a Paralympic athlete and has worked with many people who have special needs. She looks forward to meeting and working with YOU!!! Therese is certified in Infant, Child and Adult CPR and First Aid.
Chris
Chris has been a dedicated educator in the Tampa Bay area for the past decade, serving in roles such as Physical Education Teacher, Athletics Director, Special Needs Teacher, and more. He brings a wealth of coaching experience in basketball, volleyball, and soccer at both the middle school and elementary levels. Chris's extensive background in working with children of all ages and abilities equips him with the skills to help your child become a confident and knowledgeable swimmer. Since 2021, Chris has been teaching swim lessons to individuals ranging from toddlers as young as two to adults. He firmly believes that health is paramount and that movement is the best way to achieve it. Given Florida's abundant water bodies, Chris emphasizes the importance of water safety for children around pools and beaches. Additionally, Chris is CPR and AED certified, ensuring a safe and professional learning environment.
Sarah R
I'm Sarah, and swimming and coaching have been my lifelong passions. I started my journey as a competitive national swimmer with USSA at the age of 5, which eventually led me into coaching at the young age of 14. With over 17 years of experience in aquatic and fitness coaching, I've had the privilege to work with various groups including the US Navy, US Masters, youth and teen swim teams, lifeguards, and triathletes. My coaching career began in 2007, and I've held roles that range from teaching non-swimmers to become American Red Cross Lifeguards to overseeing 55 pool and beach guards on naval bases along the Gulf Coast. I obtained my Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certification in 2015, building on my initial lifeguard certification from 2013. I find great fulfillment in working with swimmers of all levels, from beginners and non-swimmers to intermediate and experienced athletes. I specialize in Mommy & Me classes, skill development, aquatic fitness, and improving overall swimming abilities. My students span a wide age range, from 3 months to 89 years old. Recently relocated to Palm Harbor, I am eager to meet new clients and become part of the local community. I am certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all my clients.
Ava
Hello! My name is Ava. Originally from Wilmington, Illinois, I made Tampa, Florida my home in 2022. My journey as a lifeguard began at the age of 16, marking the start of a fulfilling career. Working by the beach, alongside lifelong friends-turned-colleagues, I discovered a profound joy in ensuring the safety of others. In 2022, I was honored to assume the role of head lifeguard at my local beach. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I found a new passion for teaching swim lessons. Interacting personally with clients, I took pride in fostering their swimming skills and confidence. Since 2020, I've been dedicated to providing private swim lessons, catering to children as young as 2 years old and older. Witnessing students excel in swimming brings me immense satisfaction. Currently pursuing nursing education, I am driven by a deep-seated desire to help others. I hold certifications in Water Safety, Lifeguarding, First Aid, AED, and CPR, and am committed to expanding my skills and knowledge in these areas.
Genesis
Since July 2020, I've been a dedicated swim instructor and certified lifeguard, with additional certifications in CPR and AED from the American Red Cross. My teaching experience spans from infants in mommy-and-me classes to adults, with a special focus on swimmers aged 8 months to 14 years. I cover a range of skills, from basic swim safety to advanced techniques, including the four Olympic strokes. Swimming is not just a profession for me—it's a passion and a key part of my personal fitness routine. I find great joy in helping others develop a love for the water and mastering essential life skills. Currently, I'm in college and proudly hail from Brooklyn, NY. I thrive in diverse environments and enjoy teaching students of all personalities—whether they're outgoing, shy, enthusiastic, or somewhere in between. Each lesson is an opportunity to share my enthusiasm for swimming and ensure everyone gains confidence and skills in the water. Looking forward to bringing my experience and passion to your swim program!
Emily F
Hi, I'm Emily! I spent 10 years as a competitive swimmer, which ignited my passion for teaching others to swim. Since 2019, I've been a swim instructor and lifeguard, and I took on the role of swim coach in 2022. Currently, I'm pursuing a nursing degree at the University of South Florida. I have experience teaching swimmers of all ages, from toddlers to adults, including those with special needs. Additionally, I hold certifications in lifeguarding, CPR, AED, and First Aid. Excited to share my love of swimming and safety with you!
Arami
Hi, I’m Arami “Goku” I’m a swim instructor and personal trainer with a background in Biophysical Science and military leadership through the NROTC. Over the past few years, I’ve trained in CPR, AED, Basic Life Support, and underwater grappling—honing my skills as both a teacher and a lifeguard.I specialize in functional fitness and physical therapy, working with everyone from toddlers to adults since 2019, including those with special needs. My goal is simple: to help, heal, and empower. Whether you’re recovering, training, or just learning to swim—I’ve got you. Let’s make you drown-proof and strong, inside and out!
James
I’m a proud Florida native with a passion for water-based activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and wakeboarding. As a current ER nurse and former paramedic, I find joy in teaching and mentoring students and trainees. Since 2022, I’ve been teaching swim lessons, working with all ages—from infants to adults—and also providing coaching. I’m certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid, ensuring safety and confidence both in and out of the water.
Mark
Mark is a Clearwater, FL native with a diverse athletic background. Growing up, he played a variety of sports including tennis, golf, flag football, soccer, basketball, and swimming. Mark was a swimmer at Clearwater Central High School and continued his passion for the sport at Seton Hall University, just outside of New York City. Today, he serves as the Head Swim Coach at Countryside High School. Certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid, Mark teaches swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Outside of coaching, he enjoys Florida sunsets, cultivating meaningful friendships, and staying involved in mission trips, youth ministry, and his Catholic young adult community.
Emily V
Emily is a retired collegiate swimmer at the University of Tampa, originally from Iowa. She began competitive swimming at age 11 and started teaching lessons in 2016. With experience teaching and coaching all ages, including those with special needs, Emily is certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid. She swam at LSU at the Division 1 level before transferring to Tampa, where she also worked as an assistant coach for Florida Elite. Emily is passionate about sharing her love of swimming and helping others learn in their own unique way.
Jeff
Jeff’s been swimming practically since he could walk—through college, masters teams, and now a mile a day in the bay or gulf. Since 2021, he’s taught swimmers of all ages (yes, even newborns!), coached various skill levels, and worked with individuals with special needs. He’s a certified Swim Instructor with CPR/AED and First Aid. Jeff loves turning fear into fun and helping everyone feel confident and comfortable in the water.
Adam
Since 2009, Adam has been dedicated to water safety and swim education, serving as a waterfront lifeguard at Fort De Soto Park and teaching swimmers of all ages. He helped lead the Junior Lifeguard Program, building confidence and lifesaving skills in young swimmers. Adam is certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid. Whether he's helping a nervous beginner take their first strokes or refining technique for more advanced swimmers, Adam’s goal is always the same: to create a safe, supportive, and fun environment in and around the water.
Isabella
I’m Isabella—a lifelong swimmer, passionate coach, and future physical therapist on a mission to help people move, feel, and live better! I swam competitively at the Division II level while earning my degree in Exercise Science, and since 2020, I’ve been coaching swimmers of all ages and abilities—from tiny toddlers to first-time adult swimmers, and individuals with special needs. I’m also a NASM Certified Personal Trainer with a focus on Corrective Exercise, and I stay up to date with my CPR & AED certification (safety first!).
Naivy
In my house, swim lessons came before walking! Since 2019, I’ve been turning splashes into skills—specializing in teaching babies and toddlers how to feel safe and confident in the water. My approach combines play, trust, and expert technique to help kids of all ages thrive. Certified in WSI, CPR, AED, and First Aid.
Emily Van
Hey everyone! I’m Emily — former varsity swim captain turned swim coach and instructor. I’ve been a lifeguard since 2021 and love teaching all ages and skill levels, from tiny splashers to stroke pros, including swimmers with special needs. I’m certified in first aid, CPR, and AED, and I’m all about making the pool a safe, fun place where everyone can shine!
Gabriela
With 15+ years of aquatic experience, I’m passionate about helping swimmers of all ages and abilities build confidence, stay safe, and enjoy the water. I began teaching swim lessons at 15 and have since worked as a certified lifeguard, swim coach, and instructor—including specialized lessons for individuals with special needs. Whether it’s a first swim toddler or fine-tuning competitive strokes, I’m all about creating a supportive, fun, and skill-focused experience. Certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid.
Allie
Hi! I’m Allie! I grew up right here in Palm Harbor and have loved the water my whole life. I swam competitively in high school and have been lifeguard certified since 2023, with AED, CPR, First Aid, and WSI certifications too. I’ve coached swim teams and taught lessons for all ages—whether it’s your first splash or you’re perfecting your stroke. My lessons are all about building confidence, having fun, and staying safe. Can’t wait to dive in and swim with you!
Cory
Cory, a Florida State University graduate in Athletic Training and Clearwater High School alum, is a lifelong swimmer with 14 years of competitive experience. Certified in CPR, First Aid, and AED, he teaches swimmers of all ages—from kids to adults—including athletes with special needs. Starting with youth competitive teams, he now coaches high school swimmers of all levels, bringing energy, expertise, and a love for the water to every practice.
Delaney
Hi! I’ve always loved the water, which inspired my passion for teaching swim lessons and promoting strong water-safety skills. I’ve been teaching and lifeguarding since 2021, working with swimmers ranging from toddlers to adults—from nervous beginners to confident, experienced swimmers including individuals with special needs. I enjoy helping each student build comfort, skill, and confidence in the water. I’m certified in CPR/AED, First Aid, and Lifeguarding, and I bring a fun, positive, and encouraging approach to every lesson.
Audrey
Hey everyone! I’m Audrey—born and raised in Southern Oregon, now soaking up life in sunny Florida. I fell in love with the water in fifth grade on swim team, and it’s been a huge part of my life ever since.I became a lifeguard in 2015 and have been teaching swim lessons since 2018 to all ages and abilities, from infants to adults. I also teach junior lifeguarding, focusing on water safety and emergency skills. I’m certified in Lifeguarding, CPR, First Aid, and AED. Swimming isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am!
Sophia
Hey there! I’m Sophia—born in New Jersey, thriving in Tampa, and ready to make a splash! Since 2024, I’ve been teaching swim lessons to everyone from tiny tots to adults, including individuals with special needs, and even coaching those looking to level up their skills. Lifeguarding? I’ve got that covered too, with Red Cross certifications in CPR/AED, First Aid, and Lifeguarding. Let’s dive in and make swimming the best part of your day!
Michelle
As a Florida native who grew up on the water, I’ve always had a deep respect for both its beauty and its risks. As a proud mom of five grown children, I understand how important water safety is for families. Since 2005, I’ve taught swimmers of all ages—from infants to adults—including individuals with special needs, focusing on water safety, survival skills, and confidence in the water. I also offer coaching to help swimmers refine technique and reach their goals. As a former ISR instructor and CPR/First Aid certified professional, I create a safe, supportive, and fun environment where every swimmer can thrive and build skills that last a lifetime.
Chloe
Meet Chloe — a Florida native and Marine Biology graduate from Florida Southern College who turns beginner swimmers into confident, capable water explorers. Since 2016, she has worked in swimming lessons and lifeguarding, teaching swimmers of all ages from infants to adults, including individuals with special needs, while creating a safe, supportive, and fun learning environment. Chloe is a certified lifeguard and holds CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications, bringing both professionalism and energy to every lesson.
Nathan
Born and raised in Dunedin, Florida, Nathan has been hooked on swimming and teaching from the very start. Diving into aquatics since 2020 and swim instruction since 2022, he’s all about helping swimmers of every age and skill level boost their confidence and make waves in the water.Certified in CPR/First Aid, Lifeguarding, and Water Safety Instruction (WSI), Nathan keeps safety front and center while creating fun, dynamic lessons. Whether it’s easing fears or mastering tricky strokes, he’s there to cheer every swimmer on! When he’s not poolside, Nathan brings his competitive edge to the soccer field as a collegiate player. Off the clock, he stays active with soccer and fitness workouts—channeling that same energy and enthusiasm into every swim lesson. Friendly, passionate, and full of positive vibes, Nathan loves helping others dive into success both in and out of the pool.
Maya
Hi, I’m Maya! With many years of experience in and around the water as a competitive swimmer, lifeguard, and certified swim instructor, I’m passionate about helping swimmers of all ages build confidence, develop skills, and have fun. I hold BSI/WSI, BLS, and AED certifications and enjoy creating safe, engaging lessons tailored to each swimmer’s goals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your technique, I look forward to helping you succeed in the water!
Elizabeth
Hi, I’m Elizabeth! I’ve been teaching swim lessons and working as a lifeguard since 2024, and I hold current American Red Cross certifications in Lifeguarding, CPR, and First Aid. For the past 11 years, I’ve competed with various USA Swimming teams,I teach swimmers of all ages—from little ones to adults—and truly enjoy helping each student become safer, stronger, and more confident in the water. Whether you're looking to build water safety skills, improve technique, or simply become more comfortable in the water, I’m committed to creating a positive, encouraging, and fun learning environment. I can’t wait to be part of your family’s swim journey!
Kendrick
Since 2013, Kendrick has been inspiring and empowering learners of all ages through his passion for teaching and mentorship. With over a decade of experience and certifications in Lifeguarding, WSI, CPR, AED, and First Aid, he brings expertise, energy, and leadership to every class. Known for creating engaging learning experiences and meaningful connections, Kendrick is dedicated to helping others build confidence, develop new skills, and reach their full potential. He believes education and mentorship are powerful tools for creating positive, lasting change in individuals and communities.
Shany
Hi! I’m Shany, a competitive swimmer with a passion for helping others love the water! I’ve been teaching swimming since 2024 and am certified in Lifeguarding, CPR, and First Aid. I enjoy working with swimmers of all ages and abilities, including children, adults, and swimmers with special needs. Whether you’re taking your first splash, building water confidence, or working on stronger strokes and technique, I keep lessons positive, engaging, and tailored to each swimmer’s goals. I can’t wait to jump in and get started!
Lauren
Since 2021, Lauren has been making a splash as a swim instructor and lifeguard! She loves teaching swimmers from 6 months through adulthood, including swimmers with special needs, and brings coaching experience to every lesson. Lauren keeps lessons fun and encouraging while helping students build confidence, learn water safety, and develop their strokes. Lauren holds active certifications in Water Safety, CPR, and Lifeguarding, bringing experience, energy, and peace of mind to every lesson.
Robert
Hi, I’m Robert! Originally from Miami, I’m a former NCAA swimmer at the University of Tampa with over 10 years of competitive swimming experience. I’ve been teaching swim lessons and lifeguarding since 2024. I enjoy working with everyone, from little ones to adults, including children with special needs. My goal is to make lessons fun while building confidence, swimming skills, and water safety awareness. I also offer coaching for aspiring competitive swimmers.I’m American Red Cross certified in Lifeguarding, including Deep Water, CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, and First Aid. I also speak Spanish and welcome Spanish-speaking families!
Tampa swim instructors teach at home, swim lessons in Tampa and surrounding areas, including Westchase, Citrus Park, Town 'N' Country, Carrollwood, Greater Northdale, Lutz, Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Temple Terrace, Lake Magdale, South Tampa, Riverview, Palm River Clair Mel, Brandon, Seffner and Plant City.


































