THE COACHES
Kathy Forrestal, Assistant Coach
Bio:
Kathy is a Masters Swim athlete here at CIY. She grew up swimming and later teaching
at Cross Island as well. She was a record holder in several events while swimming at Jamaica HS,
and later attended and swam at Drew University in New Jersey. Kathy has instructed
every level of swimming here at the YMCA and now joins our team staff. Her experience in teaching and
performing aquatically will prove valuable to both our beginner and advanced athletes.
Kathy has a Masters in American History and is the Director of Interpretation, Education,
and Visitor Services at King Manor Museum in Jamaica.
Dwayne Stewart, Assistant Coach
Bio:
Dwayne is another example of a successful Cross Island
YMCA product. He has been a YMCA staff member in various capacities and
locations for many years. Dwayne has participated in and coached swimming at
many levels, including previously spending time as a Barracuda coach. Possessing
one of the most lauded Barracuda careers as an athlete, Dwayne brings both his
experiences and knowledge of our program’s goals to the pool each day. Dwayne is
well known for his steady hand and demanding workouts. And it is exciting to
have him lending help with the Barracudas.
Dwayne currently runs a community recreation program out of Stuyvesant High
School.
Alaine Caccavallo, Assistant Coach
Bio:
Alaine came out of our swim program as she was a long
time Barracuda. She went on to swim at the Master’s swimming level and coach at
various local programs. At each of these programs, her ability to teach and
motivate young swimmers was easily recognized and she was quickly promoted to
head coach positions at both Averill and Echo Parks. Additionally, Alaine’s
Masters in Physical Therapy could only assist our staff in recognizing and
responding to our athletes’ physical needs. She currently juggles coaching and
swimming, with a prestigious position as a Staff Physical Therapist at Winthrop
University Hospital.
Steve Olwell, Assistant Coach
Bio:
Steve partnered his St. Francis Prep HS swim captain
role with one of being a Barracuda who led by example. While being relatively
new to the Barracudas, he quickly achieved the respect of his teammates through
his hard effort and easygoing style. Steve joined the staff during the summer of
2003. Steve has proven to be a key member of our staff due to his dedication and
a good-natured approach toward dealing with our swimmers. His talents have also
been recognized by our Health Enhancement dept. who have utilized his strength
training knowledge. Steve’s assistance with this area of our team development is
particularly beneficial. Steve studies Sports Management while attending St.
John’s University and interning with area professional sports clubs.
