Ryland Sutton

• Motivated athletes to become stronger, more agile, and more effective through training habits and proper nutrition.
• Developed and maintained network of professional resources to refer clients to.
• Provided guidance to clients in overcoming challenges and identifying opportunities.
• Observed swimmers to find and correct faults and provide feedback on performance.
• Guided swimmers ranging from 18 to 60+ in age to achieve personal and team goals.

As an Observer for a Catalina Channel swim, I am responsible for ensuring that the swimmer adheres to all rules and regulations set by the Catalina Channel Swimming Federation (CCSF). I maintain an objective, unbiased role, documenting the swimmer's progress and any relevant events during the swim. I monitor the swimmer’s behavior to ensure no unauthorized assistance is given, confirming that the swim is completed independently. I record the start and finish times, as well as any official records or observations required for certification. I communicate regularly with the swimmer's support crew, escort kayaker, and the boat captain to relay important information. In the event of any issues or emergencies, I immediately notify the boat crew and CCSF officials. I ensure that the swimmer follows safety protocols, such as hydration and nutrition breaks, without violating the CCSF’s non-interference rules. After the swim, I compile a detailed report for CCSF to verify the swim's compliance and official completion.

As an escort kayaker for the Catalina Channel Swimming Federation, I provided crucial support to swimmers by ensuring their safety and guiding them through the challenging swim conditions. I closely monitored swimmers for signs of distress, fatigue, and hypothermia, offering assistance when necessary while maintaining a focus on their well-being. I helped navigate the swimmer through the channel, adjusting for tides, currents, and wind to keep them on course. My role required clear communication with the swimmer’s support boat crew and CCSF officials, relaying important updates and ensuring the swim was proceeding according to the established rules. I maintained a high level of awareness to identify potential hazards in the water, such as marine life and boats, to protect the swimmer from harm. Additionally, I provided moral support and encouragement to help swimmers stay motivated and focused on their goals. This position required strong problem-solving, quick decision-making, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Overall, my work as an escort kayaker demanded excellent communication, navigation, and safety skills in a high-stakes, challenging environment.

As an independent contractor, I provided kayaking and coaching services to swimmers training for the Catalina Channel swim, guiding them in both their physical preparation and mental strategy. I organized and facilitated Zoom meetings, phone calls, and in-person training sessions to create personalized plans that helped swimmers achieve their goals. My responsibilities included designing tailored workouts, offering technique analysis, and providing continuous feedback to optimize training. I also managed the scheduling and coordination of training sessions, ensuring swimmers received the support they needed at the right times. In addition, I helped athletes build the mental toughness required for such a challenging swim, offering motivation and goal-setting strategies. I ensured clear communication with each swimmer regarding expectations, progress, and adjustments. Through this role, I developed strong organizational, coaching, and communication skills, while fostering a supportive, results-driven environment. My work required adaptability and a deep understanding of the physical and psychological demands of open-water swimming.