COACHING PHILOSOPHY
At Tampa Bay Aquatics (TBAY), we embrace a comprehensive competition program in collaboration with USA Swimming. Aligned with our training philosophy, this program aims to create challenging yet achievement-oriented scenarios for swimmers across all age groups and skill levels. The TBAY coaching staff is unwaveringly committed to furnishing a learning environment that instills the importance of personal improvement in young athletes. Consequently, coaches maintain full authority over matters concerning training and competition.
The placement of swimmers into practice groups is a decision entrusted to the coaching staff, hinging on various factors such as age and individual ability. The TBAY coaching staff assumes exclusive responsibility for stroke instruction and the formulation of training regimens. Scientific principles underpin the design of each practice level, aligning with the long-term progress of the respective group. During meets, our coaching staff orchestrates and oversees warm-up activities for the entire team, providing constructive feedback on individual performances after each race.
Our primary emphasis is on self-competition. While winning accolades is not dismissed, our paramount goal centers on personal improvement. Even if a swimmer secures victory but falls short of their own past performance, we encourage them to strive for continual advancement. Sportsmanship holds equal stature to enhanced performance, with respect for officials, gracious acknowledgment of opponents, support for teammates, unwavering effort, and mature attitudes being behaviors applauded and acknowledged by the TBAY coaching staff. Praise is extended not just for rankings but for strides in stroke refinement and timing.
Swimmers are coached to set realistic yet challenging goals for meets, linking these objectives to their daily practice routines. We prepare and motivate swimmers to partake in a diverse array of swimming events, distances, and strokes, fostering versatility and inspiring them to explore their potential across the spectrum of competitive swimming.
The TBAY coaching staff is committed to the ongoing enhancement of the program. It remains the joint responsibility of athletes and parents to seize the outstanding opportunity presented by this program, leveraging it for success in the realm of competitive swimming.
COACHING STAFF
Jason Bowes
High Performance Coach
Coach Jason's Email - [email protected]
Dive into Excellence with Coach Jason at Tampa Bay Aquatics (TBAY)
Meet Jason, the visionary Head Coach of Tampa Bay Aquatics (TBAY), boasting over 30 years of esteemed experience, innovation, and a profound dedication to nurturing both the athletic and personal growth of his swimmers. Since taking the helm in 2007, Jason has orchestrated a remarkable resurgence of TBAY's elite program, sculpting it into a powerhouse of achievement and community spirit.
Under Jason's expert guidance, TBAY has emerged as a breeding ground for swimming champions, from National and International team members to State record-holders and Olympic Trial qualifiers. Over 150 State medalists have honed their skills within our ranks, alongside All-American and Academic All-American swimmers who've gone on to grace the rosters of prestigious university programs nationwide.
The TBAY family extends beyond the pool, with Jason also serving as Head Coach of Tampa Preparatory School’s Swim and Dive Team. Together, they've notched an impressive record of accolades, including multiple High School State Medalists and County Swimmers of the Year, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with in the swimming community.
Jason's dedication doesn't stop there. He's been recognized as Hillsborough Swim Coach of the Year, and in 2012, received commendation from the Hillsborough County Commissioners for his outstanding contributions. His coaching prowess has even earned him roles with Team Florida and as a 2024 USA Swimming Zone Select Camp Assistant Coach.
A true luminary in the field, Jason's journey to TBAY saw him shape the future of swimming at renowned institutions like North Baltimore Aquatic Club (NBAC) and the Pointe-Claire Swim Club in Montreal. With a pedigree that includes coaching Olympians and leading teams to national titles, Jason brings an unrivaled wealth of experience to every session on the pool deck.
Originally hailing from Montreal, Quebec, Jason's passion for swimming took root early, propelling him to success both as an athlete and as a coach. Now, as a Level 5 certified coach with the American Swim Coaches Association, Jason continues to inspire the next generation of swimmers to chase their dreams with unwavering determination.
Join us at Tampa Bay Aquatics, where Coach Jason's unwavering commitment to excellence transforms young athletes into champions—both in and out of the water.
Colleges: Notre Dame, Miami, Clemson, Texas, Washington University in St. Louis, NYU, Alabama, Davidson, Dartmouth, FIU, University of Pennsylvania, Siena, Columbia, College of Charlestown, Florida Gulf Coast, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Cornell, Fordham, University of Tampa, Bates, Boston College, Arizona State, TCU, Johns Hopkins University, Carnegie Mellon, Xavier, Colorado School of Mines, Wesleyan University, Hamilton College, Center College, United States Merchant Marine Academy, University of Nebraska, University of Arizona.
Clement Lachat
Head Age Group Coach
Coach Clement's Email - [email protected]
Clement Lachat, originally from Saint-Etienne, France, relocated to the United States in 2013. After graduating from the University of South Florida in 2019, he embarked on a dual journey, pursuing a PharmD and a Master's degree at LECOM Pharmacy school. Certified as a Level 4 coach by the American Swim Coaches Association, Clement's dedication to swimming began at the age of 10 in his hometown, igniting his enduring passion for the sport.
Upon settling in Tampa in 2013, Clement immersed himself in competitive swimming with Tampa Bay Aquatics. As a student at Plant High School, he led his team to the State Championships in his senior year as team captain. Transitioning to coaching in 2016, he started as an assistant coach for the Mighty Bucs and Lil Bucs teams, eventually assuming the lead coaching role for these groups in the fall of 2017. In 2020, he ascended to the position of head age group coach at Tampa Bay Aquatics.
Throughout his coaching journey, Clement has had the privilege of guiding athletes across all ages and skill levels, from beginners mastering the fundamentals to state champions and even those competing at national and international levels. Notably, he was honored as a Florida all-star team coach in both 2023 and 2024, a testament to his coaching prowess.
Described as positive and driven, Clement's greatest joy lies in imparting his passion for swimming to the next generation. His overarching goal is to foster a nurturing and enjoyable environment where swimmers can thrive, develop, and realize their full potential within the vibrant culture of TBAY.
GO TBAY!
Thomas Roark
Head Age Group Coach and Swimming Lessons Director
Coach Thomas's Email - [email protected]
Thomas Roark is a passionate and experienced coach who began his swimming journey at a young age in Boise, Idaho. He trained under Todd Marsh at the Boise YMCA Swim Team and quickly progressed through the ranks, competing at all levels—from summer league to the US Open. Thomas earned a full-ride athletic scholarship to Louisiana State University, where he swam at the collegiate level and graduated with a degree in Sports Administration.
Thomas’s coaching career reflects his deep commitment to athlete development. He has worked with swimmers of all ages and levels, from beginners to national-level athletes. His coaching stops include Trinity Prep Aquatics (FL), Blue Tide Aquatics (TX), Crawfish Aquatics (LA), and Boise Swim Club (ID). He holds a firm belief that swimmers are more than just their times on the clock—each practice and meet is a chance to grow, improve, and become a better person.
During his time at Trinity Prep Aquatics, Thomas started as the Head Age Group Coach and eventually took on the role of Interim Head Coach and Aquatics Director. Under his leadership, the TPS Women’s team won the District Championship, and the men’s team finished third. His swimmers earned Futures, Senior Champs, and FLAGS standards, contributing to team-wide success at the regional and district levels.
At Blue Tide Aquatics, Thomas coached a wide range of athletes, including National, Masters, and Age Group swimmers. His athletes consistently reached high levels of success, including qualifications for TAGS, Junior Nationals, and even the Ironman World Championships. Many of his swimmers achieved Top 10 national age-group rankings, and several went on to compete at the collegiate level, from NAIA to NCAA Division I.
With Crawfish Aquatics, Thomas worked with the developmental team and Baton Rouge Middle School League. He played a key role in teaching foundational skills and stroke technique, mentoring swimmers from “learn to swim” through competitive age group levels.
His coaching journey began with the Boise Swim Club, where he worked under mentor Debra Hill. There, Thomas coached the Silver group and saw his athletes achieve new motivational time standards. His experience in Boise sparked his love for coaching and set the foundation for the coach he is today.
Thomas continues to inspire and support his athletes with a balance of high expectations and genuine care. His coaching philosophy centers on personal growth, resilience, and a deep love for the sport.
- Coached multiple nationally ranked Top 10 swimmers
- Guided athletes to TAGS/FLAGS, Sectionals, and Winter/Summer Junior Nationals
- Mentored swimmers into collegiate careers at Division I, II, III, and NAIA programs
- Former 2017 YMCA National Champion in the 100 Freestyle
- US Open Qualifier and 6-time Junior Nationals Finalist
Kyra Suleski
Assistant Coach & Swimming Lessons
Kyra Suleski, a New Jersey native, is currently pursuing a degree in International Business at The University of Tampa. With over 10 years of experience as a competitive swimmer, Kyra trained under some of the top coaches in the Middle Atlantic Region, participating in clinics led by renowned Olympians like Rowdy Gaines and David Marsh. Her favorite events included the 200 Backstroke and 200 Breaststroke.
After an unexpected end to her competitive swimming career, Kyra discovered her true passion in coaching. A USA Certified Swim Coach, she has been coaching competitive club teams and summer leagues since 2023, while offering individual swim instruction since 2021. Kyra is dedicated to helping swimmers of all ages and skill levels unlock their full potential. Her resilience and commitment to overcoming challenges have made her a mentor who instills the values of hard work and perseverance in her athletes.
Kyra is excited to share her expertise, enthusiasm, and love for swimming with the swimmers of TBay, hoping to inspire the next generation with the knowledge and experience she has gained.
Anthony Suggs
Assistant Coach & Swimming Lessons
Anthony Suggs is an aspiring student at The University of Tampa, where he is pursuing a B.S. in Finance. Since moving to Tampa in 2008, he has been deeply involved in the local swimming community. Anthony began competitive swimming at age 10 with Tampa Bay Aquatics and has trained under numerous coaches, gaining valuable experience both in and out of the pool. During several summers, he had the opportunity to train under former Canadian Olympic coach Nick Baker, further strengthening his skills and dedication to the sport.
In high school, Anthony swam for Alonso High School, where he served as co-captain his junior year and captain his senior year, ultimately setting two school records. His favorite events include the 200 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, and 100 Butterfly.
Anthony’s passion for the sport extends beyond competing—he also has meaningful experience as a coach. He began coaching in 2023 for his local YMCA swim league and is now a USA Swimming–certified coach. He is committed to helping swimmers of all backgrounds excel in the water and reach their fullest potential.
Motivated, enthusiastic, and dedicated, Anthony is excited to share his passion, creativity, and experience with all swimmers at Tampa Bay Aquatics, helping shape the next generation of talented athletes.
Madison Tarleton
Assistant Coach
Madison's love for swimming began at age five on her neighborhood swim team, eventually leading to a commitment to year-round swimming. As both an athlete and a coach, she prioritizes finding joy in the sport, believing swimming can be a lifelong endeavor. Her coaching philosophy focuses on helping athletes embrace the fun in their daily training routines.
In addition to coaching, Madison works full-time as a Career Coach and educator at the University of Tampa. Her coaching philosophy across all areas of her life centers on trust. By fostering strong relationships where successes are celebrated and failures become opportunities for growth, Madison aims to be a trusted leader, role model, and support system for everyone she works with.
Johanna Kunz
Assistant Coach & Swimming Lessons
A Tampa native and current junior at Auburn University, Johanna is pursuing a double major in Public Relations and Studio Art. With over 10 years of competitive swimming experience, she is passionate about helping the next generation of TBAY athletes not only develop their swimming skills but also build a resilient and positive mindset.
Johanna’s journey with TBAY began in high school, where she attended Tampa Prep and quickly fell in love with the team’s strong sense of camaraderie and spirit. Inspired by her coaches and teammates, she knew she wanted to give back by becoming a leader on the team. Throughout her high school career, Johanna competed in State Championships and earned the honor of Swim Captain in her senior year. She was also proud to receive the prestigious “Coaches Award” and the “Work Hard, Swim Fast” Don Richard’s Award.
Now, as a coach, Johanna is excited to share her love for the sport with new swimmers and guide them on their own TBAY journey. She’s eager to help athletes not only improve in the pool but also grow as individuals, just as swimming helped her in her personal and athletic development.
Savannah Savitt
Assistant Coach
(Swimming Lessons)
Savannah started swimming for TBAY under Coach Jason Bowes at the age of 9. Coach Savannah went on to attend High School at Tampa Prep where she was a 5-year letter winner, team captain, 5-time All-County performer, 3-time First Team All Tampa Bay Area Selection, 2-time Scholastic All-American, 15-time District Champion, and 9-time Regional Champion. Savannah currently holds 3 records at Tampa Prep: 100-yard breaststroke, 200-yard free relay, and 400-yard free relay.
Savannah then went on to receive a scholarship to swim at the University of Nebraska under US Olympian and Gold Medalist, Pablo Morales. Savannah excelled in the classroom and the pool at the University of Nebraska. While competing for the Cornhuskers, Savy was a 4-year letter winner, 3-time academic All-Big 10 selection, had 27 top 5 finishes, and is currently the school record holder in the 800-yard free relay. Savannah is looking forward to helping all the young swimmers achieve their goals.
Savy is excited to be working with the Mighty Bucs, Lil Bucs and, AGP1+2 groups and will instil the same core values she received as an athlete and a huge part of the TBAYnation Family!
Lily Dourney
Assistant Coach
(Swimming Lessons)
Lily Dourney began her swimming journey with Tampa Bay Aquatics at age 9. Now a senior at Tampa Preparatory School, she serves as the team captain for Tampa Prep Swim & Dive and continues to compete as a member of TBAY. Last year, Lily proudly represented Tampa Prep at the FHSAA State Championship, participating in the 500-yard Freestyle, 200-yard Freestyle Relay, and 400-yard Freestyle Relay.
In 2023, Lily expanded her passion for the sport by becoming a Junior Swim Coach with USA Swimming at Tampa Bay Aquatics. She teaches young swimmers, focusing on building their confidence and mastering essential skills. Drawing from her own experience as a competitive swimmer, she brings valuable insights and motivation to her students.
Lily looks forward to continuing her work, helping swimmers develop their abilities and fostering a love for the water, just as she has.
Reese Denman
Assistant Coach
(Swimming Lessons)
Currently a junior and team captain at Tampa Preparatory School, Reese Denman competes for both Tampa Bay Aquatics and her school swim team. She began swimming in middle school and has continuously developed her abilities in the sport. Although she started ballet at a young age, Reese quickly fell in love with swimming and has been fully immersed ever since. Over the past three years, she has represented Tampa Prep at the FHSAA State Championships, competing in the 200-yard IM relay and the 200-yard freestyle relay, as well as the 50 and 100-yard freestyle at the Regional Championships.
Since she began teaching swim lessons in the summer of 2024, Reese has thoroughly enjoyed helping young swimmers build their skills. She loves sharing her passion for swimming, offering tips and support from her own experience. Seeing her students improve and develop a positive mindset in the water is incredibly rewarding for her.
Reese is excited to continue coaching and inspiring the next generation of athletes, and she loves watching her swimmers grow and thrive in the pool.
