Coach Grant Gamblin
Founder & Head Coach, Aquatic Foundation of Alaska
Grant Gamblin, born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, has spent a lifetime in and around the water. His journey in swimming began in 1991 as a youth athlete in Anchorage, and over the years, it grew into a lifelong commitment to athlete development, aquatic education, and community building.
By 2005, Grant had stepped onto the pool deck as a coach, beginning as an assistant at Service High School. His talent for teaching and motivating swimmers quickly became evident, and he went on to lead programs at multiple Anchorage-area schools and club teams. Throughout this time, he developed robust learn-to-swim programs for children and adults, guided competitive athletes to their goals, and cultivated inclusive training environments that inspired swimmers of all ages.
In 2016, Grant founded a new adult training program that quickly grew into one of the most dynamic masters swim squads in the country, earning national recognition for its rapid growth and culture of camaraderie. The success of that program reinforced Grant’s belief that swimming is far more than a sport — it is a tool for personal growth, lifelong health, and community connection.
That belief is what drives the work of the Aquatic Foundation of Alaska (AFA), which Grant founded to expand access to swimming across the state. Through AFA, Grant has built a coaching philosophy rooted in technical mastery, mental resilience, and the values of equity, safety, and empowerment.
His vision is bold: to build a generation of Alaskans who feel at home in the water — whether they are future Olympians, lifelong lap swimmers, or first-time learners.
Grant brings not only experience, but a mission: to transform how Alaskans engage with the aquatic world, and to ensure that every swimmer feels seen, supported, and challenged to become their best.
Coach Denise Duitscher
Denise Duitscher began her aquatic journey with synchronized swimming at the Anchorage YMCA in the early 80s. Despite showing initial promise in synchronized swimming, her true calling revealed itself when she joined the local diving team. Although grace wasn't her strong suit, her sheer strength and determination shone through. This led her to join the University Swim Club (USC) in the summer of her 8th-grade year, marking the beginning of a remarkable swimming career.
Denise swam for Hanshew Junior High and later for Service High School. During her senior year (1988-89), she played a pivotal role in helping the Service High girls' team clinch their first state championship in the 500 free. Believing her swimming journey had ended, she went off to St. Cloud State University (SCSU), but the swimming bug bit again. As a walk-on to the NCAA Division II team, Denise enjoyed a successful collegiate career until a shoulder injury in her senior year brought it to a close. She graduated in 1994 with a BA in Biomedical Science.
While raising her two children, Dulcy and Ianna, as a single mother, Denise continued to pursue her education, earning an MBA in Healthcare Management in 2010. Her passion for swimming reignited in 2011 when she participated in the Alcatraz Swim Invite, inspiring her children to join the local YMCA swim team. In 2015, Denise's inquiry about volunteering led to the beginning of her coaching career.
With her rich background in competitive swimming and her deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs of being an athlete, Denise brings a unique blend of strength, resilience, and dedication to her coaching. Her journey from athlete to coach is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport and her ability to inspire and lead swimmers of all ages. Denise's story is one of perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of swimming, making her not just a coach, but a mentor and a beacon of inspiration for all who have the privilege to train under her guidance.
Coach Brian Jarupakorn
Coach Brian Jarupakorn brings a wealth of competitive swimming experience and a deep commitment to athlete development to the Aquatic Foundation of Alaska. A native of Anchorage, Alaska, Brian honed his skills at Service High School and the Northern Lights Swim Club, where he achieved notable success, including multiple state championships and Alaska Senior Championship titles in events such as the 100 Free, 100 Back, 200 IM, 100 Fly, and 50 Free.Drury University Athletics
Brian continued his swimming career at Drury University, competing at the collegiate level and further refining his expertise in sprint freestyle and butterfly events. His firsthand experience as a high-performing athlete informs his coaching philosophy, emphasizing technique, discipline, and a passion for the sport.Drury University Athletics+1Drury University Athletics+1
At AFA, Coach Brian is dedicated to fostering a positive and challenging environment where swimmers of all levels can thrive. His approach combines rigorous training with personalized mentorship, aiming to develop not only skilled swimmers but also confident individuals.
Coach Ian Sands
Coach Ian Sands is a dedicated and accomplished swim coach with a strong background in competitive swimming. As a former standout swimmer at Service High School in Anchorage, Alaska, Ian contributed to the team's success at the state level. Notably, he was a key member of the 4×50 medley relay team that secured a commanding victory at the ASAA/First National Bank Alaska State Championships, winning the event by six seconds.
Ian's experience as a high-performing athlete has seamlessly transitioned into his coaching career. At the Aquatic Foundation of Alaska, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the sport to his role as Assistant Coach. Ian is committed to fostering a positive and challenging environment where swimmers can develop their skills, build confidence, and achieve their personal bests.
His coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of technique, discipline, and a growth mindset. Ian believes in nurturing not only the physical abilities of his swimmers but also their mental resilience and love for the sport. Through personalized mentorship and a focus on individual progress, he aims to inspire athletes to reach their full potential both in and out of the pool.
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Coach Keegan Zawko
Bio coming soon
Coach Zakhar Kulyk
Bio coming soon
Coach Heather Guthrie
Coach Heather Guthrie serves as the Learn-to-Swim Administrator at the Aquatic Foundation of Alaska (AFA), where she plays a pivotal role in fostering a safe and inclusive environment for swimmers of all ages. With a deep commitment to water safety and education, Heather oversees the development and implementation of programs designed to instill confidence and proficiency in the water.
Beyond the pool, Heather is an avid mountaineer, embracing the challenges of Alaska's rugged landscapes. Her passion for the outdoors complements her dedication to swimming, reflecting a holistic approach to physical fitness and personal growth.
At AFA, Heather's leadership and enthusiasm contribute significantly to the organization's mission of promoting aquatic education and a lifelong appreciation for swimming within the Alaskan community.
