Meet our Coaches:
Oxana Shifrina
Senior Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2016
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Master of Sport: 100/200 Meters Breaststroke, 800 Freestyle
“The biggest reward for an instructor is seeing the transformation from weak and diffident to strong and confident! That means the job is well done!”
Marina Rubtsov
Senior Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2014
BA in Physical Education and Sports Rehabilitation, Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Former professional swimmer from Kyiv. Recognition: Dedicated, Inspirational, Highly Motivated with Extensive Experience
Priority on maintaining a positive and safe environment. Educating swimmers about proper swimming technique, competition, and achieving success
“Recipe for Success; Dream, Plan, Work, Persist, Breathe, Focus! Love what you do! Do what you Love!”
Zamira Andrianova
Advanced Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Instructor Since 2021
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2, AUTISM AWARENESS CERTIFICATION (2021)
Candidate Master of Sports in Swimming in TURKMENISTAN
Specializes in swimming lessons for children and adults; Drawing up programs and conducting classes for children with Scoliosis; teaching children to swim from 6 months.
Tetiana Trofimova
Advanced Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Instructor Since 2016
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Specializes in strengthening and improving technique and skills in developmental swimmers
Prioritizing individualized attention and tailored instruction to meet the unique needs and goals of each swimmer;
Fostering a supportive and encouraging environment to promote confidence and progress in the water.
Tatyana Petrova
Senior Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2014
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Master Degree of Physical training, Diving prize winner in Kazakhstan
Emphasizing a holistic approach to swimming instruction, integrating technique, endurance, and mental focus;
Striving to instill a lifelong love for swimming while nurturing each swimmer’s potential for excellence and achievement in and out of the pool.
Steven Vilkevych
Learn to Swim Program Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2022
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Completed a successful 7-year Professional Swiming Experience
Experienced and Dedicated Swimming Instructor for all ages and levels.
Samuel Gurvich
Learn to Swim Program Coordinator
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member since 2020
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Professional swimmer for 4 years, Stroke development specialty
“With each perfect practice make each day your masterpiece.”
Nicole Fraiman
Private Lessons Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Instructor since 2017
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Professional Swimmer (Highschool Division Championship)
“F.E.A.R. has two meanings – Forget Everything And Run or Face Everything And Rise. The choice is yours.”
Ivan Serdiuk
Advanced Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2022
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Recognized for fostering an inclusive environment and prioritizing student safety and enjoyment.
Approachable demeanor and patient teaching style, committed to ongoing professional development.
Ilona Durmanchaeva
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Instructor Since 2020
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Recognized for creating a safe and supportive environment, ensuring a successful and rewarding swimming experience for all participants.
Dedicated to teaching swimming across various age groups and abilities; Tailors instruction to meet individual needs and fosters a safe learning environment;
Specializes in Preschool, LTS, and Adult Classes.
Dmitriy Stratulat
Senior Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2019
Master of Sport of Ukraine, Physical Education and Rehabilitation degree, Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Victories in international competitions, Specialist in preschool swimming
Embracing challenges head-on and uncovering one’s inner strength through immersion in the water.
Dmitriy Bushuev
Advanced Swimming/Water Polo Coach
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2016
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Master of Sport, 20 Years of Coaching Experience
Priority is to create a fun, safe & challenging environment for that satisfies child’s curiosity for swimming while giving parents peace of mind
David Gogichaev
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2022
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2, language proficiency: English, Russian, Georgian, Ossetian, Turkish, Armenian
Dedicated to catering to individual needs and abilities to ensure each swimmer’s success and enjoyment in the water.
Committed to providing comprehensive swim instruction while fostering a safe and supportive environment.
Aleksey Bogatov
Senior Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2018
ASCA Level 2, Graduate of Pedagogical University (2010) with a focus on swimming
Swimming Champion of the Republic of Belarus (2001), Recognized for cultivating strong-willed qualities in swimmers that they can utilize in life to achieve desired results.
Helping children develop strength of spirit and overcome the fear of water.
Alexandr Glazino
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Instructor Since 2020
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2, Full-time College Medical Student
Recognized for dedication to coaching and instilling discipline and perseverance in swimmers.
Focused on effective body motion and tailored water exercises to bring about positive results and immense joy in swimmers.
Cesar Reyes Lopez
Advanced Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2021
Water Safety Instructor
Triathlon participation in racing series across Switzerland, France, Canada, and Mexico;
Focus on strengthening foundational skills and enhancing competitive technique
“Fostering an inclusive and empowering environment, where patience, compassion, and personalized instruction propel swimmers towards confidence, progress, and a lifelong love for swimming.”
Vladimir Curinnoi
Senior Level Swimming Instructor
Swimming Instructor since 2010
Professional Swimmer, Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Detail oriented, expertise in stroke development from novice to professional level. Motivational, psychological teaching approach, adjusted on individualized level
Engraves love for water in children and creates a fun learning environment
Dmitry Krapaney
USA Swimming Coach/ Senior Level Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2016
Degree in Physical Education, Institute of Physical Culture (1999), ASCA Level 3
Uzbekistan National Swim Team member (Master of Sport), Champion of Uzbekistan Republic in 200 meters freestyle
“Strive for excellence in every stroke. Success in swimming comes from disciplined training, mental focus, and a passion for improvement.”
Gau Suleimenova
Learn to Swim Advanced Coach
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2023
ASCA Level 2, Water Safety Instructor
Master of Sport of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Water Polo); Former member of the Kazakhstan National Women’s Water Polo Team; Ten-time medalist of Kazakhstan National Water Polo Championship; Gold medalist of the International Water Polo Championship, Greece 2010
“I strive that all my students to feel happy, comfortable, and safe in the water and learn to appreciate their abilities!”
Constantine Voytenko
Swimming Instructor since 1995
ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Organization) Level 2
Coaches kids and adults of different levels and age groups
Ilia Larin
Olympic Trial in 1,500 meters freestyle
Swimming Coach/ Instructor since 2010
ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Organization) Level 2.
Tanveer Mohammad
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2021
Water Safety Instructor, Lifeguard, Water Aerobics Instructor, Pre-school specialist
Commitment to promoting water safety and fitness across diverse age groups.
I prioritize vigilance and quick response in maintaining a safe aquatic environment for all participants, emphasizing determination to ensure the well-being and success of their students
Roman Zonov
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2024
Master of Sport of Ukraine, Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2, Triathlon Coach
Prize and Winner at national and international competitions of open water swimming and triathlon
Experienced and Motivational Instructor for all ages and levels.
Mariia Valta
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2023
Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Recognized for her articulate teaching style, establishing a positive and engaging educational setting.
Attentive instruction and positive reinforcement, fosters a supportive learning environment to help swimmers thrive and develop both their skills and confidence in the water.
Ivan Yu
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2023
Water Safety Instructor, Full-time college student
PSAL A-division finalist, represented NYC districts at the New York State High School swimming championship
Eager to teach and have fun with learners of all ages
Elizabeth Plotkin
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2022
Water Safety Instructor
Seven years of Competitive Swimming Experience
“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.” –Vince Lombard
Philipp Rivkind
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2023
Water Safety Instructor, Full-time college student
Represented NYC districts at the New York State High School swimming championship
Prioritizing learning fundamentals and techniques first. Fluent in Russian and English
Anastasiya Goncharova
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2022
Water Safety Instructor, Lifeguard
Recognized for exceptional dedication and commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for young swimmers.
I believe in the importance of instilling water safety skills from an early age;
Committed to creating a fun and engaging learning environment where children feel empowered and excited to learn swimming skills.
Ksenia Savkin
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2022
Water Safety Instructor
Seven years of Competitive Swimming Experience
Dedicated to fostering water safety, confidence, and skill development in swimmers through personalized instruction and a supportive environment. Fluent in Russian and English
Oleksandr Koval
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2023
Master of Sport of Ukraine, Water Safety Instructor, ASCA Level 2
Coaching and teaching experience of 20 years
Specializes in competitive swimming, baby swim, and swimming for beginners.
Oscar Pineda
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2024
American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Trainer, Master Swim Coach
Ten years mentoring new Water Safety Instructors, American Red Cross Instructor Trainer Educator, specializing in translating materials into Spanish
Specialized in open water swimming conditioning
“Stroke development is highly individualized, I adapt the stroke for the person rather than fitting the person to the stroke, emphasizing that swimming is not one-size-fits-all.”
Maxim Klig
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2020
Water Safety Instructor
Celebrated for exceptional ability to infuse humor and creativity into teaching approach, creating engaging and enjoyable learning experiences for children.
Smile can alleviate fear in children and is committed to creating a fun and vibrant teaching environment where laughter and joy are integral components of the learning experience.
Yulia Lapina
MatchPoint NYC Swimming Instructor
MatchPoint NYC Aquatics Member Since 2024
Water Safety Instructor, over 30 years of experience in water swimming, including a decade as a competitive swimmer
Master of Sports in swimming; Mentored by the Honored Coach of the Moscow Olympic Reserve School
Embraces the philosophy of Janusz Korczak to “Learn to love the other person’s child,” fostering a nurturing and compassionate environment in teaching swimming skills.
The Learn-to-Swim course consists of six levels, focused on teaching school-age children and young teenagers how to swim skillfully and safely. Each level builds on information and skills from the previous level, promoting success and a positive learning experience.
Prerequisites
The recommended minimum age for entry into Learn-to-Swim is approximately 6 years old. There is no maximum age for any level; however, it is typical that participants in the Learn-to-Swim levels are elementary- to middle school-age children. There are no skill prerequisites for Learn-to-Swim Level 1. For Levels 2 through 6, participants must be able to demonstrate the exit skills assessment of the previous level.
LEVEL 1—INTRODUCTION TO WATER SKILLS
Introduces basic aquatic skills, which participants continue to build on as they progress through Learn-to-Swim. In addition, participants start developing positive attitudes, effective swimming habits and safe practices in and around the water. Learn-to-Swim Level 1 skills overlap with the Preschool Aquatics Level 1 and 2 skills.
LEVEL 2—FUNDAMENTAL AQUATIC SKILLS
The objective of Learn-to-Swim Level 2 is to give participants success with fundamental skills. Many of the skills taught in this level are the same skills taught in Preschool Aquatics Level 3. This level marks the beginning of true locomotion skills. Participants learn to glide and float without support and recover to a vertical position. Participants further develop simultaneous and alternating arm and leg actions on the front and back, laying the foundation for future strokes.
LEVEL 3—STROKE DEVELOPMENT
The objectives of Learn-to-Swim Level 3 are to expand proficiency of previously learned skills by providing additional guided practice. Participants learn and practice survival floating and learn to swim front crawl at rudimentary proficiency levels. We introduce the scissors and dolphin kicks and extend the time duration for treading water. Participants also learn rules for headfirst entries and begin to learn to enter the water headfirst from a seated position at the poolside. Participants who successfully complete Level 3 have achieved basic water competency in a pool environment.
LEVEL 4—STROKE IMPROVEMENT
In Learn-to-Swim Level 4, participants improve their aquatic skills and increase their endurance by swimming the strokes learned in Level 3 (i.e., front crawl) for greater distances and with more advanced proficiency. Participants add arm actions to the previously learned scissors kick and breaststroke kick to perform the rudimentary sidestroke and to learn the breaststroke. Participants also begin to learn the back crawl and butterfly, as well as the basics of performing a simple open turn at a wall.
LEVEL 5—STROKE REFINEMENT
In Level 5, participants refine their performance of all four strokes (i.e., front crawl, back crawl, butterfly, breaststroke) and increase the distances that they swim. Participants also learn to perform flip turns on the front and back.
LEVEL 6—SWIMMING AND SKILL PROFICIENCY
The objective of this level is to refine strokes, so participants swim them with greater efficiency and effectiveness over longer distances, and focuses on preparing participants for more advanced courses, such as Elite League or Swim Team.
