I grew up in Scranton, PA and started swimming for the Greater Scranton YMCA (GSY) Stingrays at age 10. I also swam for Blue Dolphin Aquatics, a USA Swimming club team, and competed in high school for Scranton Prep. Although I didn't initially enjoy distance events, I grew to love competing in long course events. I went on to swim distance freestyle events at Lafayette College before shifting my focus to teaching. In addition to coaching, I taught swim lessons in Pennsylvania, Kansas, Virginia, and Iowa for swimmers of all ages and abilities. I am passionate about stroke technique and encouraging team spirit!

Beyond the pool deck, I am passionate about science and STEM communications. I completed my Ph.D. in ecology and evolution studying monarch butterfly conservation at Iowa State in 2018. I worked at Penn State studying monarch butterfly biology from 2018-2020 followed by a year at the University of Alabama studying biocontrol in tomatoes. I currently work in the field of integrated pest management.

I'm excited to be back in State College and am especially excited to return to SCAY—having coached during the 2019-2020 season. Outside the pool, I love to spend time with my family and friends. My husband, Matt, and I live in State College. We love trying new recipes and watching the Great British Bake Off.

I'm excited to be part of the team again and am looking forward to encouraging each SCAY swimmer to be the best version of themselves! :-)

GO SCAY!

Coach Tori