• Four-year full athletic scholarship
• Six-time NCAA All-American in swimming
• Member of three NCAA National Champion teams
• 2000 Olympic Trials participant in three swimming events

In the sport of swimming there are many great coaches who can’t swim and many great swimmers who can’t coach. COTA’s head coach, Ryan Ciccarelli (a.k.a. “Coach Chic”), embodies the rare and powerful combination of world-class swimmer and talented coach and stroke instructor.

Coach Chic has been teaching and coaching swimmers in Austin, Texas since 1999. His professional coaching career began with T3 (Total Technique Training), an organization that specializes in training triathletes of all levels and ages. In 2004 he founded his own USA Swimming team, the Austin Texas Piranhas, where he developed accomplished age group and senior swimmers. Coach Chic became the head coach of COTA in 2009. His COTA swimmers have achieved remarkable success, including record-setting swims at state competitions.

Coach Chic believes in complementing his demanding training regimen with meticulous stroke instruction in order to prevent the injuries that can result from flawed technique. He devises creative and varied approaches to help all swimmers master the four strokes, and he encourages his swimmers to ask questions whenever needed. His practices are challenging but never predictable or boring! Coach Chic keeps his swimmers on their toes, knowing that motivated, excited swimmers ultimately become strong, accomplished athletes.

Coach Chic coaches the Junior 2 and Senior Swim Groups.

Coach Rebecca Noel

Lead Coach

Coach Rebecca brings over 15 years of experience in swim instruction and competitive coaching to the team, along with a background as a former competitive swimmer and a six-year veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard. She has coached swimmers of all ages and skill levels across clubs in both Colorado and South Carolina, helping athletes progress from their first strokes to achieving state-level success. Known for her energy, technical expertise, and dedication, Rebecca has a sharp eye for identifying talent early and creating customized training plans that foster long-term growth. Her coaching philosophy focuses on building confidence, promoting intentional development, and inspiring a lifelong love for the sport. With every athlete she coaches, Rebecca brings a deep commitment to excellence and a passion for helping swimmers reach their full potential.

Coach Rebecca coaches the Age Group and Junior 1 Swim Groups.