Meet Ellie: 

I've been a "mermaid" since I was a baby, and that deep connection to the water is what fuels my swim program. My journey began with a passion for helping children thrive, and now I bring that same dedication to fostering confidence and a lifelong love for swimming right here in Pembroke, Ontario.

A lifelong connection to the water

Being in the water feels like second nature to me, and through MAKE WAVES, I aim to help every student build that same love, confidence, and connection. I want each swimmer to develop strong skills, build self-assurance, and become water-smart, enjoying swimming for years to come. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students grow, not just in their swimming abilities, but in their overall confidence in the water.

My unique approach: experience, connection, passion

What makes my teaching style unique is the blend of extensive experience, genuine connection, and a firsthand passion for swimming. With many years of teaching and a background as a competitive athlete, I understand the skills, focus, and encouragement swimmers need to succeed. I build strong, personal connections with each swimmer, tailoring lessons to their abilities and personality so they feel confident, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential in the water.

My Journey

My journey to becoming a swim instructor began with coaching gymnastics and ski racing, where I discovered my passion for helping children build confidence, develop skills, and love athletics. That naturally led me to swim instruction, where I could combine my love of the water with years of experience guiding young learners. Starting MAKE WAVES allowed me to create a program focused on personalized instruction, safety, the fostering of a lifelong love of swimming, and a program that I LOVE to run! Now, as I work toward becoming a certified Elementary School teacher, I continue to bring the same dedication, patience, and enthusiasm to every lesson.

"Ellie's dedication shines through every lesson. Our child has not only become a stronger swimmer but has also gained immense confidence, truly making waves in their own development."

- Make Waves Parent