OUR COACHES
I am thrilled to return for my 22nd season as head coach, marking my 33nd year in coaching. My tenure has been marked by individual achievements, including being honored as a three-time Summer League Coach-of-the-Year recipient in 2001, 2009, and 2022. Over the last 22 years, the Sharks have compiled an impressive record of 90-23, with an unblemished streak of 65-0 over the last twelve seasons. Our triumphs include winning the County Championship in both 2019 and 2021, yet my focus remains steadfastly on personal improvement and fostering a profound love for the sport for athletes of all ability levels.
In addition to leading the Sharks, I currently serve as the head coach of Brookwood High School's swim and dive program. Brookwood has been state champions the last three years. Prior to my time at Brookwood, I dedicated nearly two decades to teaching and coaching in Duluth, further enriching my experience in developing young athletes.
GO SHARKS!
Coach Carson has been a resident of Spalding Corners since 2007, establishing deep roots within the community. His involvement with swimming began at an early age when he joined the Sharks swim team at just four years old in 2011. This early engagement not only fostered his passion for the sport but also laid the groundwork for his future contributions to the team as both a swimmer and coach.
In 2022, Coach Carson transitioned into a coaching role, where he utilizes his extensive experience to mentor young swimmers. His favorite stroke, the butterfly, exemplifies his commitment to challenging himself and others. He appreciates its complexity and demands for precision, which makes it an ideal focus for teaching children about technique and discipline in swimming.
Todd’s connection to the sport of swimming runs deep—he joined his first swim team at just 3 years old and has been passionate about the water ever since. As a competitive swimmer, Todd earned multiple Gwinnett County Summer League and Georgia State Championship titles. He went on to swim at the University of South Carolina as a scholarship athlete, where he was a four-time letterman and a school record-holder.
With over 25 years of coaching experience, Todd has worked with swimmers at every level—from 6 & under beginners to Olympic Trials qualifiers. He’s led two teams to Gwinnett County Summer League Championships and continues to bring the same energy and commitment to every athlete he coaches.
Todd’s coaching philosophy centers on building strong fundamentals, perfecting technique, and creating a fun, hardworking environment that helps kids fall in love with the sport. His favorite events are sprint freestyle and butterfly—which he often calls “the greatest stroke ever made”—though he has a soft spot for coaching breaststrokers, too.
Coach Maya's addition to the Sharks staff this summer marks a significant milestone in her athletic career, as it will be her ninth year with the team. Her extensive experience not only reflects her dedication but also underscores her commitment to fostering a strong swimming community. As a seasoned athlete, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout her tenure.
Maya's background as a four-time lettering swimmer for the Duluth Swim and Dive Program highlights her competitive prowess and dedication to excellence. This accolade is indicative of her hard work, resilience, and ability to excel in high-pressure situations. Furthermore, her experience as a Junior Shark coach for several years has equipped her with valuable leadership skills that will undoubtedly benefit the Sharks program moving forward.
Coach Kailyn stands as a veteran figure within the Shark swimming team, marking her 16th season with an extensive background that began at the age of two. Her longevity and commitment to the sport exemplify not only personal dedication but also a deep-rooted passion for fostering young talent in competitive swimming. As the longest-tenured female swimmer on the team, her experience is invaluable, providing both stability and mentorship to emerging swimmers.
In addition to her coaching responsibilities, Kailyn has distinguished herself as a county-qualifying swimmer at both summer league and high school levels. Her achievements include being a two-time lettering athlete for the Duluth High School Swim and Dive Program, underscoring her prowess in the pool. These accomplishments enhance her credibility as she guides younger athletes through their developmental stages.
This summer, Coach Kailyn's primary focus lies in working with 10-and-under swimmers while assisting in managing the Junior Shark Program. This role not only allows her to impart technical skills but also emphasizes character development among young athletes. Through her leadership, she aims to cultivate a supportive environment where aspiring swimmers can thrive, thus ensuring that the legacy of excellence continues within the Shark community.
This year marks Coach Taymaz's 10th season as a member of the Sharks and his first full year serving as an assistant coach. His extensive tenure with the team has provided him with invaluable insights into the dynamics of competitive swimming and diving, making him a significant asset to our coaching staff. As he transitions into this new role, his familiarity with both the program and its athletes positions him uniquely to guide young swimmers effectively.
Coach Taymaz is not only a seasoned coach but also a three-time lettering athlete for Norcross' Swim and Dive Program. His experience competing at the state level further underscores his expertise in the sport. This background equips him with the skills necessary to mentor our 14-and-under age groups, fostering their development through tailored training techniques and motivational support. Ultimately, Taymaz's commitment to excellence will undoubtedly enhance our team's performance and cohesion.