Our Mission & Core Values

Our mission is to develop the skills necessary for a lifetime of swimming, while creating a safe and fun environment in and around water.All ASA instructors maintain Red Cross Lifeguard Certification while a member of our staff.

As part of their orientation, instructors complete at least 40 hours of in the water training with seasoned instructors as they learn the ASA swim curriculum. Each instructor brings their own technique and approach to the classes, making our pools a fun and dynamic learning environment. We are proud of our staff and hope you have a chance to see each and every one of our instructors in action.

Meet the ASA Staff

My family began Atlanta Swim Academy 3 decades ago. Below you can meet my dedicated staff and read bio's on each of them, including me. Please stop by sometime and say hi. If you'd like to become part of a great team, fill out our application!

Brad Grzelka

Brad GrzelkaOwnerThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

More than 3 decades ago, my parents started our family business, Atlanta Swim Academy. Some of you may know that for many years the business also taught and certified people to SCUBA dive. In 2006 we exited the dive business and chose to focus primarily on teaching swimming. Around that time, my parents retired and passed the reigns on to me. I now own Atlanta Swim Academy and I am passionate about helping others overcome their fears and foster the same love for the water that I have carried with me for most of my life. I look forward to passing my love for the water on to my two children, Jessie and Tyler.

Growing up, I was very fortunate to have had many opportunities to be in and around the water whether is was swimming with friends or going on snorkeling/scuba diving trips with my family. As a teen, I became lifeguard certified, learned the ropes of running the business, and eventually as an adult, obtained my Certified Pool Operator (CPO) status.

Prior to having kids my love of the water expanded to cave diving. Since having kids my hobbies have turned to other sports/hobbies such as running, mountain biking, going to the lake, and off-roading with my Jeep.

Please stop by sometime and say hello! I look forward to continuing to serve East Cobb and the surrounding areas swim needs for many more years.

Managers

Amy FarrarGeneral ManagerThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I grew up swimming on the river in Lee County, Alabama. I've been managing aquatics and recreation programs since high school and I think swimming is one of the most fun and necessary skills a child can learn! In my free time, I like to go hiking and paddling.

Adria DennisHuman Resources ManagerThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I have always loved the water, and started swimming competitively at 10yrs old in my hometown Watertown, WI. During my swimming career, I had the opportunity to travel to multiple State Competitions, Zone-Regional Meets, Speedo Sectionals, as well as Junior Nationals. I broke multiple records at my High School in WI, and qualified for State Championships 3 years during high school season as well. My passion for swimming has never ended, and I absolutely love being able to contribute my experience and knowledge of the sport as a Swim Coach now. I love helping kids achieve their own goals, and just to have fun in the sport of swimming! I also enjoy Health & Fitness overall and it is still a very important part in my life.

Jack Jones Facility Engineer ManagerThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I have enjoyed being in the water for as long as I can remember. I began swimming competitively with my neighborhood summer league when I was 12. I still compete in a Masters swim program and have been doing so since 2008. I love the challenge that swimming offers, both mentally and physically. My passion for swimming can only be matched for my love of children. In 2007, I attained my WSI certication and combined my two great loves when I started teaching at ASA. I had attained my lifeguarding and CPR/AED certifications in 2000, but something about teaching made me feel right at home at ASA. I am also a USA Swimming Certified Coach, and I have my Level 2 ASCA (American Swim Coaches Association) Coaching certification. I have been Facility Mangager at Atlanta Swim Academy since 2015. When I'm not spending time at work, school, or with my family, I enjoy baseball, football, golf, and snowboarding.

Supervisors

Ben Ladinsky Deck Supervisor / Swim Instructor

I used to coach gymnastics at a summer camp, and I really enjoyed working with the kids. I love how no matter how bad of a day you are having, the kids can cheer you up every single time. I came to Atlanta Swim Academy in 2015 to work with kids in a different environment. I feel teaching swimming lessons is a great way to interact with kids and have a fun time learning new skills.

Dylan VillhauerDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor

I have loved to swim ever since I was a little kid. My friend got me into to summer league at the age of 8 and I stuck with it ever since. I swam through high school and even joined a year round competitive team. After high school, I continued to swim at South Georgia State College for 2 years. I'm really happy to be able to teach kids how to swim and have them enjoy learning how to swim!

Jacque StewartTraining Supervisor / Swim Instructor

I have enjoyed being around the water my whole life. Whether it be teaching lessons, coaching, or just having fun. I am excited to be a part of the ASA family.

Julia StewartDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor / Lead Coach - SwimFit

I have always loved the water and have been swimming as long as I can remember. I joined my first competitive team at the age of 12 and quickly fell in love with the sport. I swam at college at Life University. and began life guarding and teaching lessons at the age of 15. I coached age group swim teams for the past 3 years. My hobbies outside of swimming include sailing, camping and trail running.

Stacey BurasAdministrative SupervisorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I was a swim instructor for 2 years, teaching children ages 5-13. I attended Kennesaw State University, and eventually pursued acting at Second City in Chicago. I love the energy that kids have, and their willingness and courage to try new things. I love to write, in my free time I write for sketch teams in Atlanta at various comedy clubs.

Stefan WilliamsAdministrative SupervisorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Zaire UnkDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor

Determined to become a lifeguard at the age of 15, I learned how to swim. From there I started to instruct swimming lesson classes after being praised for my performance. I graduated from Chowan University with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. My favorite thing about teaching lessons would be the moments when my students achieve new goals when they are learning to swim. I enjoy building computers and writing code in my spare time.

Administrators

Cate BucciSwim AdministratorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I've been a competitive swimmer for 13 years and I used to swim on the team here at ASA when I was younger! I currently attend Gwinnett Technical College studying Marketing Management. I graduated from Centennial High School in 2019. My favorite thing about swimming is that not only is it a fun sport, but its a necessary life skill. My favorite part about teaching kids is that everyone is super unique and that brings joy to me. Outside of ASA I love to workout and do cross-fit. I also enjoy hiking and taking my dog with me.

Chloe HaggertySwim Administrator

I actually learned how to swim at ASA when I was younger! I am currently a student at Georgia State studying Journalism. My favorite thing about swimming is how free I feel in the water. Outside of ASA I love to go hiking with my dog! I also love reading and writing.

Ella NapierSwim Administrator

I grew up swimming for many years as a kid! Currently I am a Junior at Kennesaw State University. Swimming is a great passion of mine and I love helping others to get the hang of it. Outside of ASA I like to sing, swim, and paint in my free time.

Lisa SandlerScheduling Coordinator / Swim InstructorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I am honored to be a part of this dynamic and experienced swim staff. I started swimming as an infant and continue to love the water – pool, lake, river, ocean and sea! Growing up I continued to learn to swim at camp, started teaching swimming in 1993, and was a member of Arcadia University’s DIII NCAA swim team from 1995-1999. Teaching kids and individuals of all ages and abilities to swim is so exciting for me and I hope to meet you soon.

Stacey BurasSwim AdministratorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Stefan WilliamsSwim AdministratorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I grew up in Jamaica so I was constantly around water. Most of my holidays I spent at the beach or river. I have a Bachelors of Science degree from Oglethorpe University. When I was younger, my parents had a difficult time getting me out of the pool. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is the fact that I can help them develop a new skill. My hobbies outside of ASA include: watching or playing soccer, volunteering at non-profit organizations, and photography.

Zach BronstorphSwim Administrator

I've always had a love of Swimming since I was a kid! I am currently a student at Kennesaw State University studying Mechanical Engineering. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is knowing that children are learning all their swim safety skills. My hobbies outside of ASA include reading and Jiu Jitsu.

Instructors

Abe FallickSwim Instructor

I have been swimming for as long as I can remember. I started with summer swim team, then transferred to a club team and high school team. I am currently enrolled at Kell High School. I love the feel of the water and I can never go too long without being in the water. I am excited to share that feeling and to teach it to others. My hobbies mostly include school sports and I am very involved in my religious youth group. I also enjoy hanging out with friends and making music.

Abigail RonicSwim Instructor

I have been swimming since I was 4 years old. I enjoyed going to the lake with my family from a young age as well as swim classes. After graduating from Georgia Highlands College, I will be attending KSU while working on a degree in Education. I hope to teach Art to Middle and High School students. Swimming is an important skill for all and learning early helps keep kids safer around water. When I am not in the water, I play with my Jack Russel Terrier and attending live concerts. I also love painting and exploring recipes in the kitchen.

Alejandro MagdalenoSwim Instructor

I have over 2 years Lifeguarding experience at different organizations before coming to ASA. I graduated from Lanier High School in 2017 and am currently a student at Kennesaw State University. I love swimming for exercise. I enjoy helping people in any way, and helping kids swim is just another way I get to do what I love. Outside of ASA I enjoy playing soccer and tennis during my spare time. I also have a passion for music: I have been playing guitar for over 8 years and am currently learning to play the piano.

Alieen HickeySwim Instructor

I started swimming at a very young age. From summer league, to swim academies, to competitive swimming, I have had a lot of experience! I am graduating from Harrison High School and then going to Kennesaw State University to major in business management. I believe swimming is a very important sport to learn in terms of safety and it is also very fun! Outside of the pool I also play tennis. I am looking forward to helping everyone reach their goals in swimming.

Amanda PetersonSwim Instructor

I've been volunteering with children and helping kids learn to swim for 10+ years. I am currently a student at Clark Atlanta University. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is knowing that I am making a difference. My hobbies outside of ASA include: music, international travel, and crafting.

Anna WrightSwim Instructor

I have over 1 year Life-guarding experience and also taught swim lessons over the summer. I graduated from Dalton High school and am currently attending Kennesaw State University.My favorite thing about being a Swim Instructor is the fact that I get to connect with the kids and grow with them as they become more advanced in swimming. My hobbies outside of ASA include: playing basketball and tennis, painting, and watching as many Disney movies as I can.

Anslee LoffertSwim Instructor

I grew up always being around the pool. I graduated from Mill Creek High School and am currently a student at Kennesaw State University, pursuing a Bachelors in Exercise Science. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is seeing their faces when they learn something new! Outside of ASA I am also a student athletic trainer at Kennesaw State.

Anthony MunozSwim Instructor

I learned how to swim at ASA, and I spent most of my days during the summer swimming in my neighborhood pool. I am currently a student at Chattahoochee Tech for Computer Science. I think swimming is an important skill to have and I'm glad that I have the opportunity to teach it to kids! My hobbies outside of ASA include: playing piano, longboarding, and cooking.

Ashante FieldsSwim Instructor

I have previous experience as a Lifeguard and I enjoy helping kids improve their swimming skills! I am currently a Senior in High School and I will be attending Georgia Perimeter College next year, then transferring to University of West Georgia. I like helping kids learn to swim because not everyone knows how to, and it is such a beneficial skill. Outside of ASA I enjoy relaxing at home.

Bella Norris-RocaberteSwim Instructor

I grew up in the water and have been swimming competitively for 10 years. I am currently a Senior at Pope High School. I love helping kids be independent and watching them improve. My favorite part about teaching is showing kids that they can swim on their own and take control of it. Outside of ASA I love swimming, backpacking, and spending time with my friends and family. I also love volunteering with my church's youth group.

Ben LadinskyDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor

Clare BuffordSwim Instructor

Bio: I've been swimming since I was 8 years old, and I also have 2 years coaching experience with my summer league team. I am currently a High School student. My favorite thing about swimming is the relationship you form with your teammates and coaches. Outside the pool I like to babysit and dog-sit. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends.

Colin HarrellSwim Instructor

I grew up swimming competitively for 10 years. Currently I am a student at Kennesaw State University. My favorite thing about teaching swim lessons is helping kids find enjoyment in swimming! Outside of ASA I do a lot of volunteer work and enjoy swimming laps.

Collin O'DonnellSwim Instructor / Facility Engineer

For my entire life, I have loved to be in the water. I started off by swimming competitively through high school, then moved into coaching my neighborhood swim team. In 2008, I started working at Atlanta Swim Academy and have been teaching here ever since! When I am not here, I enjoy spending time with my wife, son, and cats. You can also find me mining for gold or building model ships in my free time.

Dan Burgess-WiseSwim Instructor

I have over 2 years of swim teaching experience. My Education Background includes: University of Dubuque, IA - Flight School, RC Health EMC Academy, and Chattahoochee Tech. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is the fact that I am teaching a lifelong skill and enabling someone to grow to love swimming! Outside of ASA I enjoy camping.

Davaughn QuestadSwim Instructor

I have been swimming for 11 years. I am currently enrolled in college courses. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is being able to pass on all the knowledge I have learned over the years from my coaches. Outside of ASA I play drums/percussion, I play soccer, and I enjoy wood working/carpentry

Dylan VillhauerDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor

Elise WeisengoffSwim Instructor

Growing up around the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, I've been swimming since before I could walk. As I grew up, I developed a passion for mentoring and teaching children. I was a camp counselor for Girl Scouts of Central Maryland for eight years. I also taught swimming to children ages 3 months to 16 years old. I'm excited to be with Atlanta Swim Academy!

Emily NettlesSwim Instructor

I have been swimming year round for 6 years. I swim on Stingrays Swimming and have made several State and Premier times. I go to Allatoona High School. My favorite things about swimming are my team and how fun it it. I enjoy watching the kids progress and have fun. When I'm not swimming I enjoy being with friends and playing with my dogs.

Erin VaughnSwim Instructor

I grew up swimming and I've always loved the water. I'm a student at Kennesaw Mountain High School. Swimming always made me happy when I was little and I love to see it do the same for other kids! Outside of ASA I enjoy being outdoors and hiking.

Ester ShimonSwim Instructor

When I little I always loved to swim and I had to be forced out of the water. I did swimming lessons at ASA and then joined the neighborhood summer league team. Being in the water feels great and I love helping swimmers grow each time they come to class. Outside of the pool, I play Lacrosse for Walton HS. See you soon!

Jacque StewartTraining Supervisor / Swim Instructor

I have enjoyed being around the water my whole life. Whether it be teaching lessons, coaching, or just having fun. I am excited to be a part of the ASA family.

Janie DouglassSwim Instructor

I took swimming and diving lessons started at a young age. My family has a boat and lake house and going in the water is what we like to do together the most! I graduated from St. Pius X High School and am attending KSU majoring in Exercise Science. My favorite thing about about teaching swimming is how rewarding it is to see a kid learn something new and seeing their confidence build. Outside of ASA I love reading and writing. I also love to draw and train my Goldendoodle

Jena KillianJena Killian

I swam competitively for 10 years. Went to state all 4 years at Flowery Branch High School and coached during practice and during summer league. I am currently a Junior at Kennesaw State University. Swimming is such a great and fun sport, and my favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is getting to know all the kids and to see their improvement. Outside of ASA I coach volleyball and play for the club team and Kennesaw State. I am also in a sorority and love to spend time with family and friends.

Josie BurnetteSwim Instructor

I've been on my school swim team for 4 years. I am a student at Johnson Ferry Christian Academy. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is watching them grow! My hobbies outside of ASA include swimming and playing piano.

Julia StewartDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor / Lead Coach - SwimFIT

Kyle GeissSwim Instructor

I was on swim team as a kid and I love scuba diving. I am currently a student at Kennesaw State University. My favorite thing about being a swim instructor is my enjoyment from helping people learn new things and I enjoy being social. My hobbies outside of ASA include: sports, hanging out with friends and playing video games.

Kyle GoldsteinSwim Instructor

I was a competitive swimmer from ages 7-13. I swim now for exercise and for the fun of it. I am currently attending Georgia Highlands College. It is super fun to get to share my knowledge, and to teach kids how to perfect or learn to swim. During my free time I really enjoy paddle-boarding, hiking, and I am very interested in climbing.

Lily EnsleySwim Instructor

I have been swimming since I was six years old. Before working as ASA, I was a teacher cadet at East Side this past year and have had many volunteer camp experiences. Swimming is a great activity for people of all ages and I love to help kids dive in! Outside of the pool I like to dance, crochet, and cook.

Lisa SandlerScheduling Coordinator / InstructorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Madisyn JamesSwim Instructor

My background in swimming includes life-guarding at Six Flags White Water. I am a Senior at Wheeler High School. I absolutely love swimming and being in the water. I love to see the smile on the kids faces once they've accomplished something. Outside of ASA I am a cheerleader at Wheeler High.

Maddie EmholzSwim Instructor

I started swimming competitively at age 6 up until I graduated High School. I've taught swimming lessons and lifeguarded for 4 years. My favorite stroke is the Butterfly! I have a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Psychology. I am currently working on my Masters Degree in Education. My favorite thing about swimming and helping kids learn to swim is experiencing how confident they become in their ability to swim! My hobbies outside of ASA include: working out at OrangeTheory, traveling, spending time with my family, and being outdoors!

Maggie PokornyDeck Hand / Swim Instructor

I started summer league when I was 4, then took up year-round swimming when I was 8. Since then I've continued to swim year round. I am currently a student at Blessed Trininty High School. My favorite thing about swimming is the competition it brings, and the friendships built from being on a team. I like helping kids learn to swim because it is an important skill to learn and I like being able to give back all that I have learned. Outside of the pool I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love to read and to go for runs.

Matt WilliamsSwim Instructor

I can't remember a time when I was not able to swim. I grew up near the ocean and with a pool in my backyard. I swam competitively in high school and still swim for exercise today. I studied Business while in school at a few different locations, but I am now making plans to go back and study Education to become a Teacher. There is no better feeling than helping a child learn just how fun swimming can be! My hobbies outside of ASA include: Movies! I'm also a huge nerd so if you like Marvel movies we can be great friends.

Meg WilliamsSwim Instructor

I went through the ASA swim levels and was a past year-round swimmer on the ASA Swim Team. I am currently a High School student. I love swimming because it can be super competitive but also very relaxing. Teaching kids to swim is fun because they make it exciting. Outside of the pool I play on my school's Lacrosse Team.

MJ HoffmanSwim Instructor

I grew up swimming in my neighborhood swim team and my high school swim team. I also made it to State in high school. I was also a Lifeguard throughout high school and college. I am an Exercise Physiologist from Georgia State University. I graduated in 2017 and I hope to become a Children's Occupational Therapist. I love seeing the joy on the faces of kids when they can do something they were not able to do before! My hobbies outside of ASA include personal training and uni-cycling.

Myers BerrySwim Instructor

I grew up always at the neighborhood pool with friends. I had a blast swimming and hope to teach others the joy of it! I am currently enrolled at KSU studying Computer Science. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is definitely seeing kids overcome their fears and realizing how fun it is! My hobbies outside of ASA include: I love being outdoors! If I could snowboard everyday I would, but otherwise I like hiking and being active.

Natasha ToperSwim Instructor

I was on swim team when I was young and I have been a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor for the past 5 years. I am currently in college studying Psychology. I love the interaction with kids as a Swim Instructor, and how it can make an impact on their lives. Swim is important, not just for fun, but for safety too! My hobbies outside of ASA include: I love art and the outdoors!

Nia DuBoseDeck Hand / Swim Instructor

I was introduced to swimming when I began attending a Surf Camp in San Diego, CA and I fell in love with the water. I am a junior at North Springs Charter High School. My favorite thing about swimming is feeling light and controlled and love sparking that interest in kids. Outside of the pool I enjoy dancing and drawing.

Olivia NdegwaSwim Instructor

I started swimming at the age of 6 and I have experience ranging from swim team, lifeguard and swim instructor. I can't wait to share the joys of the water with you! I am currently studying Finance at Kennesaw State University. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is seeing their progression and how happy they become knowing they did it all by themselves! My hobbies outside of ASA include: reading, watching movies and sleeping.

Oswald HernandezSwim Instructor

I grew up swimming in summer and always had fun with the sport! I graduated from Collins Hill High School and am currently a Political Science major at Kennesaw State. My favorite thing about swimming is the fun and exercise you get in the water. I love helping kids learn to swim and to see the smiles on their faces! My hobbies outside of ASA include playing piano and singing at my church.

Rachael HorneSwim Instructor

I have been swimming competitively year-round since I was seven years old. I have helped coach summer swim team for the last three years. I am a student at Johnson Ferry Christian Academy. I love to help kids learn how to swim and get to watch them improve and to have fun while getting better! Outside of ASA I swim for Stingrays and I love to play piano.

Ryan MoffettSwim Instructor

I starting swimming when I was 6 and have been swimming year round ever since. I am currently a Junior in High School. My favorite thing about swimming is being able to compete and I love teaching kids how to improve in swimming. Outside of the pool I enjoy going to UGA football games and hanging out with friends

Samantha AllenSwim Instructor

I've grown up swimming and swam competitively for 6 years. I love the water! I graduated from Islands High School in Savannah in 2018 and am currently a student at Kennesaw State University getting my degree in Political Science. My favorite thing about helping kids learn to swim is seeing the kids progress! My hobbies outside of ASA include Alpha Xi Delta and going to Church.

Sarait SotoSwim Instructor

My background in swimming is mostly recreational; I grew up around pools living in Florida. I have my TCC in Early Childhood Education completed in 2017. My favorite thing about swimming would be helping kids learn new skills and watching their faces when they accomplish something new. Outside of ASA I try to stay active be either playing soccer, working out at my gym, and dance.

Zaire UnkDeck Supervisor / Swim Instructor

Facility Engineers

Jack JonesFacility Engineer ManagerThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Collin O'DonnellSwim Instructor / Facility Engineer

Brian BooneFacility Engineer

I've been in and around pools since I was about 5 years old. Summer swim league was always an integral part of my summer breaks, and I even managed to make a few appearances at state meets throughout my swimming career. Even after I outgrew summer league, I continued my swimming career as an assistant coach to my neighborhood team over the summer months and swam on my high school swim team during the school year. My love for swimming has extended to water polo over the years. I'm excited to be working at a facility where I can be a part of a staff that takes pride in passing on their love for the water to the next generation of swimmers.

Our Mission & Core Values

Meet the ASA Staff

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Saturday and Sunday 9am-5:30pm

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Store Hours MON-FRI 10am-7:30pm,
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732 Johnson Ferry Road
Marietta, GA 30068

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