Riki Watanabe
Honolulu,Hawaii
Summary
Aloha!
My name is Riki Watanabe, and my future dreams include becoming a coach and a PE/Health Education teacher. I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, Health & Physical Education. I have always been an advocate for the power of physical activity, positive mindset, and daily movement. I believe PE is one of the most impactful spaces to shape a student's well-being. I strive to bring a meaningful perspective into my teaching where all students feel supported, valued, and encouraged to give their best effort. I believe in putting in 110% every single day, because the energy and effort I bring directly influences the energy my students show up with.
My goal is to create a learning environment where students feel excited to participate, confident in trying new skills, and proud of their growth. Something as simple as putting a smile on a student's face can change the tone of their entire day, and I want my classroom to be a place where joy, effort, and learning go hand-in-hand. Every student learns differently and at their own pace, and I am committed to meeting them where they are and helping guide them toward their full potential.
I aim to uphold high expectations rooted in respect, responsibility, and safety while still fostering a fun, welcoming, and engaging environment. My teaching will be grounded in state and national PE standards from SHAPE America, using standards-based objectives and assessments that truly reflect student learning. Ultimately, I want to inspire students the same way many great teachers and coaches have inspired me, by leading with passion, positivity, and purpose!
Overview
1
1
Certification
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Assitant Swim Coach
Iolani Swim Club
Honolulu, Hawaii
09.2025 - Current
- Led warm-ups, dryland exercises, skill-development activities, and cooldown routines to promote physical activity and student participation
- Provided clear instruction and individualized feedback to help students develop motor skills, technique, and physical performance
- Monitored student behavior and enforced safety rules, expectations, and appropriate conduct during physical activity
- Organized equipment, practice stations, and activity spaces to create safe, structured, and efficient learning environments
- Communicated activity expectations, progress, and areas for improvement with students, parents, and coaching staff
- Recorded attendance and documented student skill development, participation, and progress
- Prepared and organized students for competitions, relays, events, and other physical activity experiences
- Taught and reinforced swimming skills, including stroke technique, starts, turns, and water safety
Aquatic Assitant
City and Count of Honolulu
Honolulu, Hawaii
09.2023 - Current
- Supervised participants and maintained a safe, supportive environment during aquatic activities
- Communicated safety rules, procedures, and expectations clearly to swimmers and facility guests
- Assisted participants with questions and concerns while promoting safe and responsible water use
- Monitored the pool area and responded appropriately to safety concerns and potential hazards
- Maintained rescue equipment, safety gear, and emergency supplies to ensure readiness
- Welcomed and interacted with visitors, clients, and guests in a professional and respectful manner
Assistant Swim Coach
Hawaii Swimming Club
Honolulu, Hawaii
07.2022 - 07.2025
- Provided clear instruction and constructive feedback to support skill development and athlete progress
- Demonstrated swimming techniques, including strokes, starts, turns, and racing skills
- Adapted instruction and organized swimmer groups based on age, skill level, and individual learning needs
- Conducted swimming lessons for multiple children while maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
- Monitored swimmer performance during practices and meets to assess technique, participation, and skill development
- Motivated athletes through positive reinforcement and individualized feedback to foster confidence and engagement
- Communicated regularly with parents and families regarding attendance, progress, and skill development
Assistant Swim Coach/Swim Instructor
YMCA Kaimuki-Waialae Branch
Honolulu, Hawaii
08.2021 - 08.2023
- Provided swimming instruction to students ranging from beginner to advanced skill levels
- Demonstrated and taught swimming skills, including stroke technique, starts, turns, drills, and race preparation
- Adapted instruction and skill development activities to meet students’ varying abilities and learning needs
- Monitored student performance and provided feedback to reinforce proper technique and skill development
- Encouraged hesitant swimmers to build confidence, participate actively, and develop comfort in the water
- Communicated student progress, participation, and behavioral concerns with parents and staff
Education
Kinesiology & Rehabilitation Science Bachelor of Science - Health & Physical Education Teacher Education
University of Hawaii At Manoa
Honolulu, HI12-2026
High School Diploma -
Kalani High School
4680 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, Hawaii 9682105-2022
Skills
- Lesson Planning
- Classroom Management
- Student Assessment
- Exercise Instruction
- Positive Reinforcement Techniques
- Parent Communication
- Parent Collaboration
- Sports Coaching
- Lifeguard Certification
- CPR Certification
Certification
- Substitute Teacher Course Certification (Issued August 2026 by the Hawaii Department of Education)
- Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED (Issued August 2026 by the City and County of Honolulu)
- Google AI for K12 Educators (Issued September 2025 by Google)
- Intermediate use of Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals (Issued September 2025 by Google)
- Premium Teaching & Learning Features (Issued September 2025 by Google)
- Basic use of Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals (Issued September 2025 by Google)
- Member of American Swimming Coaches Association (Issued November 2025 by the American Swimming Coaches Association)
Accomplishments
- 2026 SHAPE America Major of the Year Award
- Deans List 2023-2025
Timeline
Assitant Swim Coach
Iolani Swim Club
09.2025 - Current
Aquatic Assitant
City and Count of Honolulu
09.2023 - Current
Assistant Swim Coach
Hawaii Swimming Club
07.2022 - 07.2025
Assistant Swim Coach/Swim Instructor
YMCA Kaimuki-Waialae Branch
08.2021 - 08.2023
Kinesiology & Rehabilitation Science Bachelor of Science - Health & Physical Education Teacher Education
University of Hawaii At Manoa
High School Diploma -
Kalani High School