Coach Al
COACHING PHILOSOPHY
“Dream Big. Believe in Yourself. Discover What You're Capable Of.”
Some coaches teach technique. Some inspire belief. Coach Al does both, bringing a lifetime of discipline, artistry, and heart to every pool deck. Her coaching philosophy combines technical excellence, mindfulness, and positive motivation to help swimmers become stronger, more confident athletes.
With a background in competitive swimming, professional performing arts, and life coaching, Al understands what it takes to pursue ambitious goals. She is passionate about helping athletes refine their technique, develop mental strength, overcome self-imposed limitations, and discover their potential both in and out of the water.
Above all, Coach Al believes resilience is built through perseverance, self-belief, and the courage to keep reaching for something bigger.
Athletic Background & Training
- Trained under nationally respected swim coach Kameron Kennedy.
- Competitive sprinter specializing in the 100 & 200 Breaststroke, 50 Freestyle, and 200 Individual Medley.
- Developed her competitive foundation through elite swimming programs and championship-level training.
- Swims competitively with Spartans Masters.
Coaching & Personal Development
- Experience as a life coach and counselor for teens and young adults.
- Passionate about mindfulness, motivation, resilience, and personal growth.
Career Accomplishments
- USA Swimming Nationals Qualifier
- Junior Olympics & Sectionals Competitor
- YMCA Nationals Competitor
- Qualified for Eastern Championships during her high school career.
- Selected to help establish the new swim/dive program at Western Reserve Academy.
- Trained at camps alongside Olympic-level swimmers, including Michael Phelps and Amanda Weir.
- Broadway & Off-Broadway performer, with additional credits in television and film.
- Official Poppy soundalike and singing voice throughout the Trolls franchise.
Complete Athletic & Professional Timeline
Competitive Swimming & Elite Training
Coach Al developed her swimming foundation under nationally respected coach Kameron Kennedy, becoming a competitive sprinter specializing in the 100 and 200 Breaststroke, 50 Freestyle, and 200 Individual Medley. Her dedication earned her opportunities to compete at Junior Olympics, Sectionals, USA Swimming Nationals, and YMCA Nationals. She also attended training camps alongside Olympic-level athletes, including Michael Phelps and Amanda Weir.
Western Reserve Academy & Eastern Championships
As a sophomore, Al received offers from both the Bolles School and Western Reserve Academy. She chose Western Reserve, where she became one of the first swimmers to help establish its new swim/dive program. Under coaches Michael and Katie Bonomo, she continued developing as a competitive athlete and qualified for Eastern Championships throughout the remainder of her high school career.
Broadway, Television & Film Performing Arts
Following her elite swimming career, Coach Al transitioned her discipline to the stage and screen. She built a celebrated professional background starring in various Broadway, Off-Broadway, television, and film productions. As an accomplished voiceover artist and studio session singer, she is notably recognized by animation fans globally as the official singing and soundalike voice for the character Poppy throughout the entire Trolls media franchise.
Personal Passions & Community
Outside of the pool, Coach Al is a passionate free diver and ocean enthusiast who loves traveling, horseback riding, and exploring new paths. Alongside raising her daughter, she is committed to animal rescue initiatives and continues her competitive connection to swimming as an active athlete with the Spartans Masters group.