LONGPOINT SAILFISH

Kelsey Stratford is a communicative designer who loves being able to call Charleston home. Originally from Richmond, Va, Stratford started swimming on her summer swim team when she was 5 years old, leading her to then swim for her club team for 12 years, junior coaching when she was 15, and has now been a USA official swim coach for over 5 years, most recently with SCSC. Stratford completed her undergrad degrees at Auburn University while swimming club and then went on to SCAD for some graduate work. She is a graphic designer full time but realized she couldn’t leave her passion for swimming behind no matter the circumstance. She is so excited to be back on the pool deck and coaching again and is eager to meet all of the swimmers, encouraging them to have fun and enjoy learning how to swim better and faster.

My name is Ryan Shokes and I have lived in Charleston my entire life. I graduated from Wando High School and am going into my sophomore year at the University of South Carolina. I am majoring in exercise science and plan on pursuing a degree in physical therapy. I started competitively swimming with the CCAA when I was 5 and have been with the Longpoint Sailfish since I was 10. In my free time, I love going to the beach or playing guitar. Though my competitive days are done, I look forward to seeing everyone again and using my knowledge to help build a strong and confident team while having fun.

Junior Coaches are typically 14 years of age and older (some 13 year olds may be considered) and must commit to attending at least 1 practice per week and 4 meets over the season.  If your teen is interested in being a volunteer junior coach, please have them send an email to [email protected] with the following information:

1. Your name
2. What motivated you to apply for the junior swim coach position?
3. Tell us about previous experience you have working with children if any.
4. What specific skills or qualities do you possess that you believe would make you an effective junior coach for young children, related to swimming and not specific to swimming?
5. What is your availability between the date for 6&U evaluations and City Meet? Do you have any vacations planned or have other limits to your availability?