Fall/Winter 2025 - 2026 Coaches
Ila Nathanson

Hi all, my name is Ila Nathanson, and I’m incredibly excited to be back for another amazing Muskies season! I’ve been involved with the Muskies program for 16 years. I started as a Muskie swimmer for 10 years, then moved into a Jr. Coach role, and eventually became a coach. I have now been coaching for over 12 seasons, and I currently serve as the Head Coach and Aquatic Supervisor of Competitive Swimming at the Arlington Heights Park District. My favorite part of every season is helping swimmers grow a love for the sport and watching them create bonds with their teammates. I’m extremely proud to be part of this program—there is truly no community like the Muskies community. GO MUSKIES!!

Liam Galka

Hi, my name is Liam Galka. I’ve been swimming for ten years now and love the sport. I began my swimming career as a swimmer with the Muskies. I am currently a student and am going for a degree in mechanical engineering. I’ve coached Interpark Swim Team for AHPD for two years and have also coached the Arlington Otters. What I love most about coaching is seeing all the kids blossom into confident and proud swimmers. I’m very excited to coach Muskies this winter season!

 

Ryan McLaughlin
Hi, my name is Ryan McLaughlin! I’m entering my thirteenth season coaching Muskies, building on my years as both a swimmer and a coach in the program. I first started with the inter-park programs and later continued as a junior coach for the Muskies, where my passion for coaching truly took off. Over the years, I’ve also led the Rec Racers, worked as a lifeguard, and served as a manager. I’m excited for another season focused on competition, growth, and team improvement!
 
Abigail Rodgers

My name is Abigail Rodgers, and I’m so excited to coach Muskies this summer! I started swimming when I was 9 years old with the Pioneer Piranhas. From there, I joined the Muskies—and that’s when my love for swimming really took off! Growing up, I always looked up to my coaches, and I’m thrilled to now be stepping into that role myself. This past winter, I officially coached for the first time for the Arlington Otters. Within the Arlington Heights Park District, I am also a Certified lifeguard and swim instructor. In addition to coaching, I'm also a varsity swimmer at Rolling Meadows High School. I'm beyond excited to coach Muskies this Winter!

Sophia Bacula - Siegel [email protected]

Hello there! My name is Sophia Bacula-Siegel. I’m currently studying Physical Education and Coaching. I started swimming competitively when I was just eight years old. I joined various swim teams including: Arlington Otters, Camelot Crocodiles, BG Hurricanes, and PPD Tiger Sharks. I then competed for all four years on the Fremd High School swim team. In the summer of 2024, I started coaching the Pioneer Piranhas. I’m so excited to keep coaching for the Muskies!

 
Admin
Ila Nathanson Aquatic Supervisor & Head Coach