The Waterman Program was founded by elite paddlers Anik and Jay Wild. Anik and Jay are involved with every aspect of the camp and have surrounded themselves with an expert team of unique, dynamic, knowledgeable and kid-friendly coaches and advisors.
Jay Wild
Camp founder and co-directorJay has evolved his passion for sharing his water knowledge and the experiences that shaped him into a career as a professional personal coach. He loves sharing his water knowledge with young people and encouraging them in their own growth and development. Jay is a Crossfit coach, Paddle certified coach, and instructor. Jay’s water rescue certification include American Red Cross Certified Lifeguard, Rescue 3 International Inland Rescue Swimmer and Wilderness First responder. As a professional athlete, he ranks among the best of the elite paddlers in the US and represents leading SUP companies such as 404, Puakea Designs and Quickblade Paddles.
Anik Demers-Wild
Camp founder and co-directorAnik brings 25+ years of paddle sports coaching and racing experience to the Junior Waterman camps. Her coaching career began as an athlete/coach in her Canadian home town, Lac Beauport Canoe-Kayak Club. As an athlete, she is bringing World class competing and National champion level for mentoring and experiences to the kids. Anik values a strong mind, fearlessness, and hard work as essential characteristics for any accomplished individual and athlete.
Morgan Hoesterey
Swim, Freediving and Adventure CoachMorgan Hoesterey is no exception to this line-up of coaches. She comes from a successful background in Colledge Swimming. Microadventures is her new passion, and with freediving and paddling with her pup, she keeps busy and active. For Morgan, the best thing ever is watching people overcome themselves. Freediving, Open Water Swimming to Paddling, for example, are sports that a lot of people find really intimidating. And guess what kids, Morgan’s favorite is swimming with Sharks!
Jeff Pearson
Elite Swim Coach at Boost Swimming - Camp AdvisorJeff has been a professional swimming coach for over 20 years and is currently certified by the American Swim Coaches’ Association at level 5. In 2012, two of Jeff’s developmental athletes went on to win medals in the London Olympic Games. As an athlete, Jeff was a member of the USA Swimming National Team. Jeff still holds the United States Masters Swimming 2 mile cable swim National record.
Julie Munger & Abigail Polsby
Water Rescue Professionals at Sierra Rescue - Camp AdvisorJulie and Abi are committed to providing quality water-rescue knowledge to our Watergrom and Junior Waterman. They bring high-quality, professional expertise to the camp staff and contribute to designing the best rescue skills and drills for both programs. Julie is an internationally acclaimed white water professional, river guide and member of the world championship US Women’s Rafting Team from 1985-2001. Abigail has strong mountaineering, first aid, and teaching background. A lead instructor for Hurricane Island and Colorado Outward Bound School, Abi is a patient and dedicated teacher and works well with all ages and abilities.