Meet the Staff

Christopher J. Cotton (Owner / Director / CPO / ARC WSI (Instructor) / ARC LG(Lifeguard )

Has been in the Aquatics world for over 18 years. Having taught himself how to swim after a near drowning incident at camp, Mr Cotton is a relentless advocate for underused and underserved communities. Starting his career as a lifeguard and quickly moving to a swim instructor Chris quickly progressed through the ranks of the Aquatics world. As an Aquatics Director he started The Dodge YMCA Dolphins Swim Team as well as numerous initiatives which put safety around aquatics in a fun and educational setting. As a preschool teacher in a Reggio Amelia inspired school which has Montessori roots as well as an early intervention childhood teacher he has gained insights into a student first atmosphere and how beneficial allowing for a swimmers journey to be their own person in and outside of the pool.

Gio - (CPO/ LG/ SI)

A Professional ARC and NYC City Lifeguard for the past 8 years. Gio understand the delicate balance between an overbearing LG and a caring one. Seeing the swimmers needs before the present themselves makes Gio the perfect LG. Creating personal bonds with families as well as swimmers, Gio ensures the safety and smooth transitions between classes and recreational swim (besides ensuring the safety of all swimmers)