Overview
Dan Simonelli is an esteemed figure in the realm of open water swimming, having made significant contributions as an accomplished marathon swimmer, coach, and organizer. He is the Founder and Director of the Open Water Swim Academy (OWSA), which offers comprehensive coaching and mentoring for competitive and non-competitive swimmers of all ages and skill levels. His contributions extend to various roles such as race director, observer, and support paddler, demonstrating a deep commitment to the sport.
Professional Accomplishments
Simonelli is recognized for his achievements both in and outside of the water. He has been inducted as an Honor Coach into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame and was listed among the World’s 50 Most Adventurous Open Water Men by the World Open Water Swimming Association. His coaching and mentoring have inspired and facilitated countless swimmers to complete challenging swims such as the English Channel, Catalina Channel, and others.
Key Achievements and Roles
- Marathon Swimmer: Completed significant solo swims including the English Channel (2016) and multiple Catalina Channel crossings.
- Awards and Honors: Recipient of the Streeter Award (2015) for Service to Marathon Swimming and the Barra Award for Best Overall Year (2016). He received the Carnegie Hero Award in 2019 for a life-saving rescue at La Jolla Cove.
- Founder and Director, OWSA: Under his leadership, OWSA has been nominated for prestigious awards such as the World Open Water Swimming Offering of the Year.
- Race Director: Contributes as the race director of events such as the Scripps Pier-To-Cove Swim.
- Support and Observation: Served as an official observer for the Catalina Channel Swimming Federation and was key in organizing swims like the Pan-American Colibrí Swim for human rights awareness.
Community and Leadership
Simonelli has an extensive background in ocean swimming, having grown up as a competitive swimmer and later transitioning into roles that emphasize community support and growth in the sport. He utilizes his military experience as a former Water Safety and Survival Instructor in the Marine Corps to enhance his coaching methodologies.
Role in Organizations
- La Jolla Cove Swim Club: Current President of the club.
- Catalina Channel Swimming Federation: Holds a voting board member position.
- World Open Water Swimming Association: Nominated for service excellence in the open water community.
Training and Mentorship
Dan Simonelli's leadership in the Open Water Swim Academy emphasizes a safe and supportive environment for all swimmers. The academy is known for its dedication to promoting the sport and developing swimmers' abilities through a holistic curriculum that covers technical, environmental, mental, and physical training aspects. His kayaking and coaching services are highly sought after across the west coast of the United States.
Conclusion
Dan Simonelli is a pivotal figure in the global open water swimming community, revered for his dedication to mentoring and supporting swimmers, his contributions to the organization of impactful swimming events, and his exemplary swimming achievements. His leadership at the Open Water Swim Academy exemplifies a commitment to fostering an inclusive and adventurous spirit in open water swimming.
