About Us

About Us

At Starfish Swim Academy, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident, safe, and happy in the water.
Our academy was created with the goal of helping swimmers of all ages build strong water skills while developing a lifelong love for swimming. We work with swimmers at every stage of their journey — from babies experiencing the water for the first time to children building their swimming foundations, and even older swimmers who want to improve their technique and confidence.

Every lesson is designed to be supportive, engaging, and tailored to the swimmer’s level and goals. Our instructors focus on creating a positive learning environment where swimmers feel comfortable, encouraged, and excited to learn. Whether someone is learning their first float or refining their strokes, we believe swimming should always be a positive and empowering experience.

At Starfish Swim Academy, swimming is more than just a skill — it is a way to build confidence, independence, and a lifelong connection with the water." and the mission

Our Mission

Our mission is to help swimmers of all ages develop confidence, safety, and a love for the water through patient, supportive, and high-quality swim instruction. We are committed to creating a positive environment where every swimmer feels supported, encouraged, and proud of their progress. By focusing on water safety, strong fundamentals, and joyful learning, we aim to give families peace of mind while helping swimmers grow both in and out of the pool.

Young child who's learning swimming.

Meet Our Team

Swimming coach Alex smilling, holding a young swimming student inside the pool.

Founder & Head Instructor - Alex

Hi, I’m Alex! Swimming has been my whole world for as long as I can remember. I grew up swimming in Brazil, competed at the collegiate level in the US, and have built over 20 years in competitive swimming and 5+ years coaching swimmers of all ages and abilities.

After college, I found my true passion — helping others fall in love with the water. That's why I founded Starfish Swim Academy: to bring private, in-home swim lessons directly to families across Miami. Every lesson is tailored to your child's pace, personality, and goals — fun, structured, and genuinely caring.

You don't have to feel ready. You just have to take that first step, and I'll be right there with you.

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    Coach Jeremy

    Hi! My name is Jeremy Tornes.  I started swimming when I was 10 years old. From lessons to swim team to coaching I immersed myself.

    Along the way, mistakes, wins, community, and independence has forged the coach I am today. I approach every practice with intention.

    Swimming changed my life for the better. It’s become my calling to share this passion with others. My goal is to inspire others through swim coaching.

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    Oriana Rivas

    Digital Marketing Manager

    Hi! My name is Oriana Rivas, and I am a marketing and digital business professional. I love creating social media growth strategies for small and medium-sized businesses and helping them connect with their purpose. I love the energy of Starfish and how it helps children feel more confident and capable through swimming, supporting their personal development.

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    Juan Manuel

    Video Editor

    Hi! My name is Juan Manuel. I am a communications specialist and journalist with experience in digital strategy and video production. At Starfish Swim Academy, I work as a video editor, helping transform ideas into visual stories that connect with our audience in a clear and meaningful way.
    I believe that great ideas should be communicated in a simple and authentic way. My passion is bridging the gap between an idea and how it is experienced by the audience. Faith also plays an important role in my life, and I believe there is deep joy and fulfillment in using our talents to serve something greater than ourselves and positively impact the people around us.

Ready to get started?

Get in touch with us, and we’ll come to your pool in Miami.