Coaches and Directors
Coach Abi swam for the Chinese National Team, becoming a World Cup winner and National Champion. Prior to BCST, she coached the USA Swimming Junior National Swim Team and was named 2019 Pacific Swimming Coach of the Year, she is American Swimming Coaches Association level 5 certified coach. Abi’s coaching philosophy is quality over quantity. She believes doing the right things can set swimmers up for a long, successful journey.
“I love the sport of swimming because it builds community not only for youth, but also for parents, volunteers, coaches and officials. I call these people family!”
Ash graduated from Penn State University and started his coaching career on the East Coast through various academic programs. Locally, he coached at the KING Aquatic Club and was named two-time Pacific Northwest Age Group Coach of the Year and All-Star Coach before coming to BCST. Ash’s coaching philosophy can be best described by the phrase “WE not ME.” By putting the team at the center of his efforts, it allows him to coach as a collective and take care of all the athletes.
“I love the sport of swimming because, while it is individual in competition, a team driven environment is always where people are the most successful.”
Dwight has been coaching swimming since 1992, including as a Pacific Norwest Swimming All-Star Coach and the head coach for multiple area high schools. He brings a great deal of experience to BCST and has been part of the team since 2007. Dwight’s coaching philosophy is to strive to establish a relationship with each swimmer that is built on trust and honesty, and to teach strong fundamentals, work ethic, and sportsmanship.
“I love the sport of swimming because of how much you learn about yourself through it.”
Dwayne grew up swimming for multiple local clubs and was a member of the state championship team for Kentridge High School. After graduating from Western Washington University, he joined the Bellevue Club team as a swim instructor and became a coach in 2003.
Dwayne’s coaching philosophy is to introduce and grow a solid stroke base, from which each swimmer can become established in the sport they love.
“I love the sport of swimming because you never meet your opponent, yet every time you race, you have another chance to beat them.”
Kara grew up swimming in Georgia as an age grouper and continued her swimming career in college at The University of Georgia where she was an All-American, Academic All American, SEC Champion and team captain. Kara was also a member of the USA National Team and competed at the 1997 World University Games in Sicily, Italy. Kara’s coaching philosophy is to guide swimmers to become better people both in and out of the water while placing an emphasis on teamwork and setting goals.
“I love the sport of swimming because of the lifelong lessons it teaches you and the friendships you develop along the way that will be a part of your life forever.”
John began coaching in 2017 with the Palm Desert Swim Club in Southern California, starting as an assistant coach and finishing his tenure as Head Coach during the 2024–2025 season. John believes that great coaching develops the entire athlete, not just fast swimmers but well-rounded and resilient individuals. His coaching philosophy revolves around consistency and simplicity; athletes’ journeys begin and build through showing up and nailing the basics.
“I love the sport of swimming because it teaches athletes to find joy and meaning in the process, not just the results.”
