The Basics:
- Hometown: Jackson, California
- Occupation: Middle School science teacher, swim coach, & all-around adventurer.
- Education:
- M.Ed. UC Davis
- BA Psychology UC Santa Cruz
- Certs: Eagle Scout, WFA, Swift water rescue, GLAD trained.
- Favorite Food: Vegan waffles & chocolate milk.
The Early Years:
I grew up on 7 acres in Jackson, CA where I had the freedom to roam and discover. I hiked the hills, building tree-forts and climbing trees, hanging out outdoors until sunset; this is where I found my love of exploration. My family reinforced my love for outdoors by going on regular camping trips and I went on to earn my Eagle Scout award.
I have always been active, dabbling as a youth in baseball, soccer, wrestling, basketball, gymnastics, and roller hockey, but discovered my biggest joy was swimming. I swam and played water polo at UC Santa Cruz, where I graduate in Psychology. During college I found that running and cycling also became favorites, which lead to racing in triathlon thereafter. I have since went on to compete at USAT Triathlon Nationals and World Championships in Hamburg, Germany in 2007 and recently completed my first Ironman in Lake Tahoe where I qualified for Kona World Championships in 2014.
Joining the Outdoor Education Community:
After college, I went to work at my first outdoor education job in Florida, where I led 30-day canoeing expeditions with Outward Bound. I then went on to pursue coaching and have enjoyed being with the Amador Polars Bears, Rocklin Wave, All-American Swim Academy, Sierra College and served as the head coach of the Arden Park Dolphins from 2010-2013.
In addition to coaching, I have inspired youth in a variety of outdoor educational settings. I led ropes courses, group challenges, and backpacking trips for Boojum Experiential Education (Anza, CA). I also worked as a naturalist at a number of residential based outdoor education programs including Mendocino Woodlands Residential Science School (Fall 2008, Mendocino, CA), Great Basin Outdoor Science School (Winter 2009, 2010, 2011 Lake Tahoe, NV), Web of Life Field School (Spring and Fall 2009, Aptos, CA) and Klamath Outdoor Science School (Spring 2010, 2011, Klamath Basin, OR).
In 2013, I took my teaching experience to a new level and received a single-subject science credential from the University of California at Davis. I now teach in an urban title I middle school and have the privilege of supporting students as the student council advisor and activity coordinator as well as various extracurricular activities including bike club. I love teaching and am passionate about empowering youth through gaining skills to make sense of the world around us.
Adventure Spirit:
In addition to teaching and coaching, adventuring and challenging my body and mind is my greatest joy. I have had the pleasure of traveling to over 20 countries. My greatest adventures have been with my wife thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2010, and cycling through South America in 2011-12.
I believe that there is no better experience for a child, than to explore and develop an appreciation for nature. This positive connection helps reveal self-awareness, including a clearer mindset and flight of imagination. I also believe overall wellness requires having a positive attitude, a healthy body and mind and sleeping beneath the stars is the best medicine.
You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. ~Plato
Inspiration/ Motivation/ Dedication
It is not a matter of if, but when we will face challenges in our lives. I have lost several special people along this journey we call life, and I am so grateful to have shared so much joy with them while they were here. In my many miles of walking, my heart will go out to those who are unable to be by my side. I thank you for your strength, wisdom and support. May your love and spirit be everlasting.
August 8, 2009, After a courageous battle with cancer, my loving mother passed peacefully. Her unconditional love and comfort cannot be replaced and I will forever strive to make her proud in my choice and actions. Thank you for giving me strength, wisdom and joy. I love you so much.
December 20, 2004, I was witness to a tragic glissading accident on Mount Tallac in Lake Tahoe, CA. I will never forget my college roommate and best friend Ian William Carney. He will always be my motivation and I am constantly inspired by his creativity and passion. You are always in our hearts. No Fears, No Limits, No Regrets!
I would also like to mention friend and father-figure Robert Stetson. Bob suffered a traumatic brain injury after an accident while working on his home on September 6th, 2009. He always dreamt of hiking the PCT, and I would just like to recognize the Stetson family and as they continue to cope with this ever changing challenge.
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away. ~Hilary Cooper