ANANKA THOMAS
STAFFORD,VA
Summary
Attentive Swim Instructor with proven abilities individual and group instruction. Careful about monitoring students to prevent injuries and other emergency situations. Knowledgeable about related equipment and teaching techniques. Certified in First Aid, CPR and water rescue. Dedicated Swim Instructor experienced in teaching swimmers at all levels. Knowledgeable in safety protocols and capable of providing enjoyable learning environment. Genuinely enthusiastic for swimming and highly effective in motivating and inspiring students of every age. Results-driven Coach dedicated to building focused, high-achieving teams through goal-oriented training and mentorship. Skilled at recruiting reliable staff and assistants for unified team culture and purpose-driven squad support. Proponent of detailed finance and resource management to maintain positive perception of program and expand competitive opportunities. Energetic Trainer with thorough knowledge of diverse strength training programs and group classes. Versed in assessing client fitness levels and safely supporting goals. Organized fitness leader develops individualized client programs and engaging classes for diverse skill levels. Guides clients in strength training techniques to improve cardiovascular health.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Swim Instructor
Jeff Rouse Swim And Sport Center
06.2024 - Current
- Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
- Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
- Promoted a fun learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
- Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
- Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Increased swimmer safety by enforcing pool rules and maintaining vigilant supervision during lessons.
- Addressed behavioral issues promptly using a fair and consistent approach, fostering a respectful learning environment for all participants.
- Enhanced student swimming abilities through the development and implementation of personalized lesson plans.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Maintained control and safety of class and kept children in flotation always within arm's reach.
- Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on individual student needs.
- Provided one-on-one instruction for students requiring additional assistance in mastering specific skills or techniques.
- Adjusted lesson pacing according to individual student needs while adhering to established curriculum guidelines, ensuring optimal progress for all learners.
- Assisted in setting up pool deck, cleaning up public areas and closing pool in unsafe conditions.
- Assessed student skill levels at the beginning of each session to ensure proper class placement and maximize opportunities for growth and development.
- Encouraged parent involvement in their child''s aquatic education through regular communication about progress and upcoming events.
- Collaborated with other instructors to develop innovative teaching methods for improved student outcomes.
- Streamlined class organization by maintaining accurate records of student progress, attendance, and skill assessments.
- Utilized various teaching aids such as kickboards, fins, pull buoys, or noodles to provide targeted support for specific skill acquisition among students at various competency levels.
- Implemented proper safety protocols and emergency response plans.
- Developed strong relationships with students'' families through open communication channels, fostering loyalty to our program over time.
- Prepared equipment before each class class and stored items promptly after classes.
- Mentored and trained new swim instructors on best practices.
- Continually refined teaching techniques by attending professional development workshops and incorporating new strategies into daily lesson planning.
- Contributed to facility cleanliness by performing routine maintenance tasks such as skimming the pool surface or testing water quality before lessons began.
- Collaborated with swim team coaches to develop successful training plans.
- Facilitated teamwork among students during group exercises, promoting peer support as a valuable component of skill development.
- Collaborated with aquatic center staff to coordinate schedules, pool availability, and other logistical needs, ensuring smooth operation of swim lessons program.
- Mentored new swim instructors in department policies and best practices for effective teaching strategies within our program framework.
- Assisted with the planning and execution of special events like swim meets, fundraisers, and end-of-season parties to foster community engagement.
- Assisted with coordinating and running special events and competitions.
- Demonstrated proper form and technique to prevent injury.
- Promoted safe and inclusive environment for club clients and members.
- Adapted classes to meet needs of participants with varying fitness levels.
- Motivated participants through one-on-one instruction and positive feedback.
- Set up and broke down equipment before and after classes.
- Implemented new and creative exercise routines to keep participants motivated.
- Delivered fun and motivating group fitness classes designed to improve overall health and fitness levels.
- Provided emergency first aid and CPR as needed.
- Assisted with marketing and promoting of classes and services.
- Collaborated with other fitness professionals to develop and implement new programs.
- Utilized effective record-keeping system for tracking customer information.
- Encouraged participants to stay motivated and reach fitness goals.
- Developed and implemented fitness assessment system to evaluate progress of participants.
- Assisted individuals in setting achievable fitness goals, monitoring progress for success.
- Created comprehensive fitness programs tailored to needs and goals of each individual.
- Promoted fitness classes to boost gym attendance.
Survival Swimming Instructor
16th Sustainment Brigade
07.2008 - 11.2010
- Developed strong relationships with students to foster trust and rapport, enabling more effective instruction.
- Organized and taught swimming lessons to children aged [Number] to [Number] years.
- Implemented ongoing assessments of student progress, adjusting lesson plans accordingly to ensure continued growth in abilities.
- Increased class engagement with interactive activities and games focused on various swimming techniques.
- Promoted water safety awareness by incorporating essential skills into lessons such as treading water, floating, and rescue techniques.
- Improved student confidence in water by providing individualized feedback and personalized instruction.
- Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
- Managed pool operations during sessions, maintaining a safe and clean environment for students and staff members.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop comprehensive swim programs for participants of all ages and skill levels.
- Continuously updated knowledge on swimming techniques, water safety practices, and instructional methods by attending professional development workshops and conferences.
- Contributed to a positive work culture among colleagues through open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect while striving to deliver exceptional aquatic education experiences for all students.
- Mentored new instructors, sharing best practices and providing constructive feedback to enhance teaching effectiveness.
- Provided lifeguarding services when necessary, enforcing pool rules and regulations while ensuring the safety of all patrons at the facility.
- Expanded program offerings to include specialized classes such as adaptive aquatics for individuals with disabilities or additional needs.
- Enhanced swimmer performance by developing tailored lesson plans and incorporating innovative training techniques.
- Prepared equipment before each class class and stored items promptly after classes.
- Achieved higher student satisfaction ratings through consistent communication with parents regarding progress and areas for improvement.
- Maintained control and safety of class and kept children in flotation always within arm's reach.
- Boosted client retention rates by consistently delivering high-quality instruction that met or exceeded customer expectations.
- Streamlined scheduling processes for improved efficiency in coordinating instructor availability with client preferences for swim lesson timeslots.
- Reduced the risk of injuries by ensuring proper warm-up, stretching, and cool-down exercises during each session.
- Assisted in the development of marketing materials for swim programs, highlighting key benefits and unique features to attract new customers.
- Organized successful annual swim meets to showcase participant achievements while fostering a sense of camaraderie among swimmers.
- Utilized social media platforms to promote upcoming events, updates on class schedules, and success stories from satisfied clients which increased community outreach efforts significantly.
- Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on individual student needs.
- Collaborated with swim team coaches to develop successful training plans.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
- Implemented proper safety protocols and emergency response plans.
- Mentored and trained new swim instructors on best practices.
- Assisted in setting up pool deck, cleaning up public areas and closing pool in unsafe conditions.
- Assisted with coordinating and running special events and competitions.
- Demonstrated proper form and technique to prevent injury.
- Motivated participants through one-on-one instruction and positive feedback.
- Provided emergency first aid and CPR as needed.
- Encouraged participants to stay motivated and reach fitness goals.
- Set up and broke down equipment before and after classes.
- Created comprehensive fitness programs tailored to needs and goals of each individual.
- Adapted classes to meet needs of participants with varying fitness levels.
- Assisted individuals in setting achievable fitness goals, monitoring progress for success.
- Promoted safe and inclusive environment for club clients and members.
- Implemented new and creative exercise routines to keep participants motivated.
- Assisted with marketing and promoting of classes and services.
- Developed and implemented fitness assessment system to evaluate progress of participants.
- Collaborated with other fitness professionals to develop and implement new programs.
- Educated participants on proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits.
- Delivered fun and motivating group fitness classes designed to improve overall health and fitness levels.
- Promoted fitness classes to boost gym attendance.
- Utilized effective record-keeping system for tracking customer information.
Lead Swim Instructor
US Army
02.2002 - 04.2008
- Enhanced swimmer abilities by developing and implementing comprehensive lesson plans tailored to individual needs.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement through regular self-assessment exercises designed to identify areas of strength or growth potential for both instructors and swimmers alike.
- Improved swim team results by providing targeted coaching for competitive swimmers in need of specialized training.
- Ensured the safety of all participants by maintaining vigilance during lessons and enforcing pool rules and regulations.
- Reduced risk of accidents by conducting pre-class checks of pool conditions, identifying hazards promptly before they become problematic.
- Collaborated with fellow instructors to create a cohesive learning environment and ensure consistent teaching methods across all classes.
- Managed pool facilities efficiently, scheduling maintenance as needed while minimizing disruptions to programmed activities.
- Partnered with local schools and community organizations to offer swim lessons as part of their extracurricular programming, expanding access to quality aquatic education.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by fostering strong relationships with colleagues and actively participating in staff meetings or team-building events.
- Demonstrated commitment to excellence by consistently receiving high satisfaction ratings from both students and parents alike.
- Developed strong rapport with students, resulting in increased engagement and enthusiasm during lessons.
- Facilitated certification courses for new swim instructors, promoting proper teaching techniques and best practices within the industry.
- Organized special events such as swim meets, fundraisers, and award ceremonies, boosting community involvement and fostering positive relationships among team members.
- Increased student confidence and performance through consistent encouragement and constructive feedback.
- Streamlined communication between parents, students, and staff by organizing regular progress reports and updates on swimmer achievements.
- Refined teaching skills through ongoing professional development opportunities such as workshops, conferences, and industry certifications.
- Maximized resources by effectively tracking equipment usage and inventory levels to avoid shortages or overstocking issues.
- Provided support for swimmers with disabilities or special needs, ensuring an inclusive experience that accommodates individual requirements.
- Mentored junior instructors in their professional development by sharing expertise in lesson planning, coaching strategies, and class management techniques.
- Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
- Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Maintained control and safety of class and kept children in flotation always within arm's reach.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on individual student needs.
- Assisted in setting up pool deck, cleaning up public areas and closing pool in unsafe conditions.
- Collaborated with swim team coaches to develop successful training plans.
- Mentored and trained new swim instructors on best practices.
- Prepared equipment before each class class and stored items promptly after classes.
- Implemented proper safety protocols and emergency response plans.
- Assisted with coordinating and running special events and competitions.
- Promoted proper stretching, warmups and conditioning exercises to prevent sports injuries.
- Developed and delivered effective and engaging coaching sessions to improve performance.
- Offered constructive feedback to clients to help reach goals.
- Developed relationships with clients to provide ongoing support and encouragement.
- Facilitated group coaching sessions and provided individual coaching support.
- Utilized various coaching models and techniques to maximize client success.
- Facilitated team building activities and workshops to improve communication, collaboration and productivity.
- Assisted clients in setting and achieving personal and professional goals.
- Provided guidance to clients in overcoming challenges and identifying opportunities.
- Coordinated special events such as pre-season tryouts, training camps and special workshops to support team goals.
- Encouraged clients to find creative solutions to problems and maintain motivation.
- Analyzed client feedback to adjust coaching sessions accordingly.
- Created and implemented innovative strategies to engage clients in coaching journey.
- Assisted clients with developing strategies to manage stress and increase productivity.
- Researched latest industry trends and developments to keep abreast of best practices.
- Developed and maintained network of professional resources to refer clients to.
- Developed and delivered presentations to educate clients on topics related to coaching.
- Assisted in developing marketing materials to promote coaching services.
Swim Instructor
US Army
04.1999 - 08.2001
- Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
- Promoted a fun learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
- Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
- Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Increased swimmer safety by enforcing pool rules and maintaining vigilant supervision during lessons.
- Addressed behavioral issues promptly using a fair and consistent approach, fostering a respectful learning environment for all participants.
- Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
- Communicated clearly with employees, suppliers and stakeholders to keep everyone on same page and working toward established business goals.
- Enhanced student swimming abilities through the development and implementation of personalized lesson plans.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Maintained control and safety of class and kept children in flotation always within arm's reach.
- Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on individual student needs.
- Provided one-on-one instruction for students requiring additional assistance in mastering specific skills or techniques.
- Adjusted lesson pacing according to individual student needs while adhering to established curriculum guidelines, ensuring optimal progress for all learners.
- Assisted in setting up pool deck, cleaning up public areas and closing pool in unsafe conditions.
- Assessed student skill levels at the beginning of each session to ensure proper class placement and maximize opportunities for growth and development.
- Encouraged parent involvement in their child''s aquatic education through regular communication about progress and upcoming events.
- Collaborated with other instructors to develop innovative teaching methods for improved student outcomes.
- Streamlined class organization by maintaining accurate records of student progress, attendance, and skill assessments.
Education
No Degree - Business Administration
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZSkills
- Customer Service
- Patience and Empathy
- Child Supervision
- Creative Thinking
- Water safety knowledge
- Professionalism and Punctuality
- Relationship Building
- Swim Instruction
- Adaptability and Dependability
- Swimming and Water Safety
Languages
Spanish
Full Professional
Certification
- First Aid Certification
- Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate
- US Army Combat Lifesaver Certification
Timeline
Swim Instructor
Jeff Rouse Swim And Sport Center
06.2024 - Current
Survival Swimming Instructor
16th Sustainment Brigade
07.2008 - 11.2010
Lead Swim Instructor
US Army
02.2002 - 04.2008
Swim Instructor
US Army
04.1999 - 08.2001
No Degree - Business Administration
University of Arizona
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