Meet Allison Dubovsky: “Coach Allison”

We had the good fortune of connecting with Allison Dubovsky and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Allison, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
Prior to teaching swimming, I was a school teacher and then a stay-at-home mom. So, transitioning into the role of “Coach Allison” was something brand new for me. Many children are naturally afraid of the water, so when parents passed their children to me in the pool, a very vulnerable place for those that can’t swim, I had to quickly gain their trust, like immediately, in order to teach them the life-saving skills their parents wanted them to have. Talk about a daunting task!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My most proud title is “Mom,” but being “Coach Allison” is a close second. If you were to look at my website (www.swimwithallison.com), never having worked with me before, you would quickly learn that I teach life-saving swim instruction to young children. You would have to ask my clients, but the feedback that I constantly hear is my ability to quickly gain trust from my students. The bond i form with my students allows me to accelerate their learning in a short period of time. Deleted next sentence. When I’m in the grocery store and a 4 year-old yells “Coach Allison”and hugs me – or – when a mother points and says, “ That’s Coach Allison,” but the child doesn’t recognize me because they’re used to me hiding underneath a hat, sunglasses, wetsuit, and pure zinc sunscreen. These are all priceless moments. So very grateful to be able to do work that I love. Lastly, maybe what I am most proud of, is my ability to help children conquer and overcome a fear, teaching them a skillset they use for life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Anywhere family friendly, preferably outside, not too crowded, but with positive energy that would make them experience why we love living in such a wonderful city!!! Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It’s been a journey and there are MANY people that have been a part of it. From my family, friends, and all of my clients, the loyalty and support has been overwhelming throughout the years.

Website: www.swimwithallison.com