Coach Melissa: From Island Waters to HOX Hero
For Coach Melissa Garchar, the water has always felt like home. Growing up in Kaneohe on the island of Oahu, her childhood was a blur of waves, sunshine, and water sports—especially surfing. But it was swimming that truly captured her heart. When a third-grade classmate mentioned swim practice, Melissa raced home to ask her mom if she could join a team. That moment launched a lifelong journey in the pool that would eventually lead her to become one of the most beloved coaches on the Blackhawk Swim Team (HOX).
Melissa’s swimming career began with the Kamehameha Swim Club, where she swam competitively from age 10 through high school. She later competed at Whittier College, swimming and playing water polo at the NCAA Division III level.
Her path to HOX began through a local children’s swim school, where she met a few HOX swimmers and connected with their families. One of those introductions led to a coaching role with the team, and it’s been a perfect fit ever since. “Growing up, I wanted to be a PE teacher, so I started by teaching swim lessons,” she says. “When I gave coaching a try, I instantly fell in love with it.”
Coach Melissa’s philosophy centers around fundamentals. “When the basic techniques are executed correctly, speed follows naturally,” she explains. But more than medals or times, Melissa hopes swimmers leave HOX with friendships and memories that last. “We didn’t have anything like HOX where I grew up. It’s such a special experience for kids who love swimming but don’t want to commit year-round.”
Outside of HOX, Melissa is a high school PE teacher and Assistant Athletic Director at Mission San Jose High School in Fremont. Her skills as a coach and educator go hand-in-hand—she understands that every child learns differently, and she brings that insight into every practice. Her presence at HOX is more than just leadership—it’s a source of warmth, wisdom, and inspiration.
HOX Annual Fundraiser: A Super Night for a Super Team
In April, HOX hosted its annual auction fundraiser at Blackhawk Country Club, and the superhero-themed evening was a smashing success! HOX parents enjoyed a lively atmosphere with a pasta bar and bid on exciting items like private coach sessions, buy-in parties, VIP cabanas, and premium parking spots. The funds raised will help support another amazing season for the HOX team.
All Fins Meeting Goes Virtual
On April 29, HOX hosted its annual All Fins Meeting—this year as a Zoom call to better accommodate parents’ schedules. The session offered a helpful overview of how practices are structured, what to expect at meets, and how to meet volunteer requirements. The virtual format ensured that every family had an opportunity to get informed and feel part of the HOX community.
Mom’s Night Out: Margaritas and Team Bonding
On May 1, HOX moms gathered at Blackhawk Country Club for a well-earned Mom’s Night Out. With a festive taco bar and signature strawberry margaritas, the event was a relaxing and fun way for mothers—especially those new to the team—to connect. It was also an opportunity to learn more about what to expect throughout the season. Each attendee received a special HOX-themed gift as a keepsake from the night.
To learn more about swim programs visit www.hoxswim.com or reach out to Coach Sean directly at [email protected].
HOX Coach Spotlight: Chase Tsubota
Chase Tsubota, a HOX swimmer from age 6 to 18, is a HOX coach this summer, as well as a freshman at the University of Oregon, majoring in Multidisciplinary Sciences with minors in Music and Psychology.
This spring, he qualified for the prestigious Nationals meet through College Club Swimming (CCS) in both the 50- and 100-yard breaststroke—one of only two Oregon freshmen to make the cut. He also competed in four relays, helping his teams break three school records. Chase’s accomplishments reflect the strong foundation built during his years with HOX—and his continued drive to excel.
