2025-26 kac board of directors
The following members are continuing their terms on the KAC Board of Directors.
danny calisaya
director at large
Dania (Junior), Micaela (Novice Prep), Mattias (Alumni)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: 5 years in the club as a parent and volunteer, and 3 years as a swimming official.
Director Bio: I am serving on the board to help ensure the long-term strategic health and operational efficiency of our club, benefiting all members from Novice to Senior. My interest is rooted in my personal commitment to the organization; as a dedicated parent, I have three children—Dania (Junior), Micaela (Novice prep), and Mattias (alumnus after 5 years)—which gives me a comprehensive, multi-level understanding of the club’s needs. I currently provide hands-on support with club electronics and fundraising initiatives, demonstrating my commitment as a key volunteer. Furthermore, my community and professional involvement, including fundraising as a member of the Knights of Columbus of the Holy Family Parish, my active participation in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) in Kamloops, and my role as a member of the Open Learning Faculty (OLF) at Thompson Rivers University (TRU), connects the club to key civic, academic, and professional networks. What makes me a strong candidate is the convergence of my executive and technical expertise with my grassroots club involvement. As an Electrical Engineer specializing in Optimization with significant business/corporate experience, I have a proven record in building high- performing teams, improving processes, and strategic planning. This background directly addresses the needs for human resources and financial/policy management by helping the board identify and implement the most efficient solutions. My ability and experience working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures worldwide ensure inclusive decision-making. Serving on the board is a way to translate my professional skills into direct improvements for the competitive youth sports experience our club provides.
amber dixon
Director at large, Policy & Governance committee chair
Maci (Tier 3), Lia (Swim X & Coach)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: My swimmers have been involved in competitive swimming for the past 10 years. We are now proudly entering our fifth year with the Kamloops Classic Swim Club.
Director Bio: I am currently serving on the Kamloops Classic Swim Club Board and as Chair of the Policy and Governance Committee. Over the past several years, I have facilitated team travel, coordinated clothing orders and fundraising initiatives, and planned and executed the annual Elementary School Swim meet for three consecutive years. As a classroom and special education teacher with 18 years of experience, I bring strong organizational, communication, and collaborative skills to every role I take on. I am also an active swim parent with 10 years of involvement in competitive swimming, supporting athletes at a variety of meets and levels of competition. My goal in serving on the board is to ensure that our decision-making remains athlete-centered while continuing to strengthen the governance and strategic direction of our club. My background in education, policy development, and team leadership—combined with my experience in communications, risk management, and community engagement—positions me well to contribute meaningfully to the board’s work. I am committed to supporting the continued growth and success of the Kamloops Classic Swim Club.
alison gregory
Director at large, KCS Volunteer Coordinator
Riley (SwimX), Dorren (SwimSkills), Amara (Alumni)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: I have been involved with KCS since 2018, with my kids starting in the SwimSkills program and moving through the competitive stream. I took on the role of KCS Volunteer Coordinator in January 2022, and have been a director since that time. This is my fifth year as an official, and I am working towards my Level 3 pin.
Director Bio: I am currently serving on the Board to help further the work that has been done over the last three years to create and foster a sense of community through the many changes that have taken place, while maintaining structure and thoughtfulness in processes that have been set in place. I believe in following process while also looking at the impact decisions will have on the future of the club, and not using fear as a decision tool. I am also working on rebuilding the KCS website.
As KCS Volunteer Coordinator, I am able to share my joy in volunteering, which is a big part of how I was raised, and I love being on deck with my family at my side.
To the board, I bring my experience as business owner and manager for our 128- year-old family business, Milton's Movers. My focus is on logistics, operations and accounting. I am also in the process of completing my Post-Bacc in Business Management at TRU.
As the parent of a transgender child, I also want to ensure that all athletes feel welcome, safe and supported within our club.
I am committed to the future of KCS, and want to see long-term planning and solid foundations built to ensure continued success for this club.
2025-26 board candidates
The following members are Board of Directors candidates for the 2025-26 year, and 6 will be elected at the KAC AGM on November 5, 2025 to fill the vacancies.
misaki bertram
Mia (AG1), Erin (Novice Prep)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: 1 Year
Candidate Bio: I am a mother of three children who enjoy basketball, swimming, and singing. As a parent of a new club member, I’ve seen firsthand that this club offers a positive, friendly environment—especially in how older swimmers interact with younger ones. That sense of connection and mentorship is something truly special, and I want to help the club thrive in the seasons ahead—not just for my daughters, but for all swimmers, families, and coaches. I’d like to understand the club’s current challenges and support wherever I can. My previous experience as a board member includes serving with the Kamloops Japanese Canadian Association, where I organized events, communicated with members, and helped nurture relationships between immigrant families and second- and third-generation Japanese Canadians. While living in Japan, I also served as Vice President of the Parents Teacher Association, supporting school events, issuing monthly newsletters, and coordinating class representatives to address parent concerns.
Nicole crichton
Ryder (Tier 3)
** PLEASE NOTE - NICOLE HAS WITHDRAWN HERSELF FROM THE ELECTION **
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: Parent of swimmers in the club for 6 years. Volunteered as hospitality, timer, stroke & turn, admin desk and assistant meet manager. Sponsorship and finance committee.
Candidate Bio: I have enjoyed being a swim parent with the Kamloops Classics for the past six years. Our club has achieved great success in the past and is now in a period of transition - one that presents tremendous potential for growth and renewal. Being a board member would allow me to be a part of this next chapter for a club I’m deeply committed to ensuring its continued success and positive culture for years to come. I’ve been an active volunteer in many areas, including working extensively at the administration desk - the central hub of activity during meets where precision and calm under pressure are essential. I’ve also assisted the meet manager, helped organize the provincial meet our club hosted last July, and served on both the Finance and Sponsorship Committees. These experiences have given me valuable insight into the governance and decision-making processes that should support our organization. Professionally, I’ve been a mortgage broker since 2007, collaborating with accountants, lawyers, and clients to manage budgets and complex financial transactions. This work has strengthened my organization, accuracy, and communication skills - qualities that align directly with effective board governance and strategic planning. Having been involved in competitive sports throughout my life, both as an athlete and now as a parent, I value teamwork, commitment, and community. My goal is to serve the best interests of our swimmers, helping them stay active, happy, and motivated. I would hope to bring my experience, perspective, and dedication to the board in support of our club’s ongoing growth and success.
devon graham
Aurora (Novice)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming:
Kamloops Classic Swimming 1990- 1999 University of British Columbia Varsity Swimming 1999-2002
Kamloops Tsunami Summer Swim Club Coach 1999, 2000
Masters swimming with HYACK and Langley Olympians 2006-2011
Masters swimming with KSC Sept 2025 - Ongoing
Candidate Bio: I am a proud former Kamloops Classic swimmer, having trained and competed with the club from 1990 to 1999 before continuing my swimming career at the University of British Columbia. Swimming was the cornerstone of my childhood and young adulthood—it not only shaped my athletic development but also instilled in me a lifelong appreciation for teamwork, perseverance, and community. The experiences and friendships I built through the Kamloops Classics have had a lasting influence on both my personal, educational and professional journey. Now, as a parent, I’m thrilled to be involved with the club once again and to have the opportunity to give back to the organization that played such an important role in my life. Professionally, I am a nurse and nurse educator at Thompson Rivers University. My career has taken me from the hospital bedside to the classroom, including seven years as Program Head of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. I am deeply passionate about mentorship, education, and creating environments where people can thrive—values I would bring to the KCS Board if elected. I love the unique balance swimming offers: the personal challenge of racing paired with the collective strength of the team on deck. I’m eager to contribute my experience, energy, and passion to help support the next generation of swimmers in our community.
jessica greenwood
Emma (AG1), Tyson (Junior)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming:
- 9 years as a competitive swimmer in Summer Club
- 1 year as an assistant coach in Summer club
- 3 years as a head coach in summer club
- 4 years as a Swim Skills/Novice Coach for KCS
- 3 years as a swim parent
- 3 years as a swim official and first years a club officials coordinator
Candidate Bio: My name is Jessica Greenwood, and I am a Grade 1 teacher at Pacific Way Elementary. I am excited to seek election to the Kamloops Classic Swimming Board to continue supporting the growth and success of our club and its swimmers. I bring over 15 years of experience in swimming—as an athlete, coach, official, and parent—and a strong understanding of the club’s operations and community. My involvement includes serving as KCS Secretary and Club Officials Coordinator from 2025-present. I have four years experience as a Swim Skills Manager & Novice Coach with KCS. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on the needs of our swimmers, families, and volunteers.
Beyond the pool, I bring leadership and governance experience from my teaching career. I have served as a union staff rep for over 10 years, and co-chair of the school health and safety committee for 5 years. I have also worked on various district level committees in my time as a teacher. My background in education has strengthened my communication, organization, and teamwork skills, which I believe are essential to effective board service. I am passionate about ensuring Kamloops Classic Swimming continues to provide a positive, inclusive, and high-quality environment where all swimmers can reach their potential.
sarah mackay
Hazel (Junior)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: This Is my second year as a parent. I also was involved in synchronized swimming for 2 years in my childhood.
Candidate Bio: I am excited to be considered for a position on the swim board to help support the continued growth and success of our team. As a parent of a swimmer, I have seen firsthand how valuable strong communication, teamwork, and community involvement are to the success of both the athletes and the club as a whole.
With experience running my own business and organizing events, I bring strong leadership, financial management, and communication skills to the table. My background includes coaching youth sports, managing social media and marketing for my salon, and organizing fundraisers and community events. I would love the opportunity to contribute these skills to help strengthen team engagement, fundraising efforts, and overall club organization.
tyrone mccabe
Brooklyn (AG2), Harper (Novice)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: Entering fourth year as a parent in the club and volunteering as an official.
Candidate Bio: Hello KCS! My name is Tyrone McCabe, and my family and I have proudly been part of the swim club community since 2022. Over the past three years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the passion, dedication, and joy that swimming brings to athletes, families, and volunteers alike.
Professionally, I bring a background in Utility Management across both private and public sectors, with experience leading projects, teams, and policy development. My work blends business acumen with a strong service-oriented approach, which I’ve found to be a great asset in collaborative environments like KCS.
Most recently, I joined the Policy and Governance Committee, where I’ve been actively involved in reviewing and refining the club’s Bylaws and Board Manual. There’s still important work ahead, and I’m excited about the opportunity to help guide and support the club’s continued growth and success.
kerry patterson
Blake (AG1)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: I previously swam as a summer swimmer with the Langley Flippers swim club from 1990-1995, Prince George Pisces summer swim club 95/96, Prince George Barracudas Swim Club 96-2000. I also competed in water polo and synchronized swimming.
My son has played hockey for 10 years in several leagues and levels including KMHA, Okanagan Hockey Academy, AA and AAA where I have been involved as a volunteer including team manager and Tournament Committees.
My daughter completed swim skills through KCS and then swam in Novice Prep, Novice, Junior and AG1.
I am the current temporary Treasurer with KCS since April 2025, previously on the finance committee for KCS for 2 seasons.
Candidate Bio: I am pleased to submit my candidacy for the board of the Kamloops Classic Swimming Club. With over a decade of personal experience in competitive swimming, including time with the Langley Flippers, Prince George Pisces, and Barracudas, I bring a deep appreciation for swimming and the positive impact it has on youth development. My daughter has grown through the KCS program from Swim Skills to AG1, and I’ve supported the club as a finance committee member for two seasons and currently as interim Treasurer since April 2025.
Professionally, I work as a Financial Analyst, managing multi-million dollar budgets for the Province of BC and contributing to strategic procurement and financial planning. My work emphasizes fiscal responsibility, long-term planning, and efficient resource allocation which are skills I’ve applied directly to my volunteer roles. I also have experience managing youth hockey teams, where I oversaw team budgets, coordinated volunteers, supported coaching staff with expense tracking, and organized team activities. These roles have strengthened my skills in financial oversight, team coordination, and community engagement. I am passionate about youth sports and committed to a supportive, inclusive, and financially sustainable environment for our swimmers and their families. I am committed to supporting a financially sustainable swim club environment that prioritizes transparency, inclusivity, and the optimal use of resources to benefit all members.
amy wakelin
Isobella (Tier 3), Grace (AG1)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming:
- 2019 to present: parent and volunteer, currently a Level 2 Official (on track to be Level 3 by end of the 2025/26 season)
- 2019 – 2023: Director at Large (2020), Treasurer (2021-2023) Prince Rupert Amateur Swim Club
- 2023 – Present: Treasurer (2023 – December 2024), President (January 2025 to present) Kamloops Aquatics Club
Candidate Bio: I’ve decided to put my name forward for a second term because I believe we’re on a great path - and I want to continue seeing it through. I’m committed to transparent, inclusive governance and long-term organizational health, and excited for what comes next!
I bring extensive board leadership experience across multiple non-profit organizations, including the Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association, Rupert Runners, Prince Rupert Amateur Swim Club, and Kamloops Aquatics Club. Since 2017, I’ve contributed to governance, finance, HR, and club development committees - drafting terms of reference, leading strategic initiatives, and supporting organizational growth in various roles (including Registrar, Treasurer and President). I’ve led the Kamloops Aquatics Club as President since January 2025, following a sudden change in leadership. Working alongside an exceptional board of directors, I’ve helped guide the club through a challenging period while advancing key governance and HR-related risk mitigation efforts - including updating employment agreements in partnership with Sport Law to ensure legal compliance and commitments to staff development. I also initiated a comprehensive review of our bylaws and continue to support the board’s evolution as a policy-focused governance body.
I lead with relationships and intention - building trust, fostering collaboration, and leveraging strong connections with other swim clubs and Swim BC to support shared goals. I know when to ask for help and how to activate the right networks, which has, in part, allowed our club to continue to operate through this most recent time of uncertainty. I take a risk-based approach to management and hold a professional certificate in project and change management. In my federal public service role, I operate daily within a complex regulatory and legal framework, where I’ve negotiated governance agreements and legal settlements and have been recognized for excellence in policy development. I bring over 15 years of experience in strategic planning, human resources management, legal compliance, and stakeholder engagement. I’m a trained negotiator, skilled in conflict resolution and consensus-building, and I’m often selected for leadership roles because of my ability to build successful teams and guide organizations through change.
Danielle wittal
Mia (Tier 2), Maddox (AG1)
Years Involved in Club/Competitive Swimming: 4 years- I have been involved with sponsorship, finance committee, hospitality and working towards my stroke judging.
Candidate Bio: I am currently the head of the sponsorship committee and a member of the finance committee. I am also potentially considering applying for a position on the Board of Directors.
I believe I would be a strong asset to the Board because I bring a personable, collaborative approach and a genuine commitment to the success of the club. My well-rounded perspective allows me to consider multiple viewpoints and make thoughtful, balanced decisions. I would prioritize the club’s best interests in everything I do and remain dedicated to contributing to a positive, sustainable future for the organization.