Behind the Scenes at Swim&Gym Summer Camp

Swim&Gym Summer Camp is proud to welcome

Ethan Staley

as a new

owner and leader

, joining Kristina and Karen in guiding the continued growth and success of our camp community. Ethan’s journey with Swim&Gym Summer Camp is one rooted in experience, education, and a genuine passion for helping children thrive.

Ethan is a

Spanish teacher at Madison High School

, bringing a strong educational background and a deep understanding of how children learn, grow, and build confidence. In addition to his work in education, he is an

experienced lifeguard and swim instructor

, making safety, skill development, and preparedness central to his leadership approach.

What makes Ethan’s role especially meaningful is that he has truly

grown up within the Swim&Gym Summer Camp community

. He began his journey as a

camp counselor

, later served as

camp director

, and now proudly steps into his role as

camp owner

. This firsthand experience gives him a unique and invaluable perspective on every aspect of camp life, from camper experience and staff development to program quality and family trust.

“Swim&Gym Summer Camp has always been about more than just summer fun,” Ethan shares. “It’s about building relationships, confidence, and lifelong memories. Being part of this camp’s growth from counselor to owner has been incredibly rewarding.”

As a leader, Ethan brings a calm, positive presence that campers naturally gravitate toward. He has a remarkable ability to help children feel

comfortable, capable, and included

, whether they are learning a new swim skill, participating in gymnastics, or working together during group activities. His leadership emphasizes

effort over perfection

, encouraging campers to try new things, support one another, and celebrate progress.

Parents value Ethan’s commitment to

safety, structure, and mentorship

, knowing their children are learning from someone who leads with integrity and care. Campers admire him as a

positive role model

who listens, supports, and inspires confidence.

Ethan’s addition to the ownership and leadership team represents an exciting step forward for Swim&Gym Summer Camp. His educational background, deep camp roots, and passion for youth development strengthen our mission and ensure that Swim&Gym Summer Camp continues to be a place where children feel safe, supported, and excited to return year after year.

👉

We are thrilled to have Ethan Staley as part of the leadership team shaping the future of Swim&Gym Summer Camp.

For more than three decades,

Karen Clay

has been a guiding force in aquatics education, youth development, and community-centered leadership. As the

former owner of SwimWest Swim School

, founder of

Swim&Gym Summer Camp

, and a nationally recognized leader in the swim school industry, Karen’s impact reaches far beyond the pool deck.

Karen owned and operated

SwimWest Swim School for 32 years

, building it into a trusted cornerstone of the Madison community. In

2022

, she proudly sold the swim school, marking the close of one chapter and the continuation of a legacy rooted in safety, education, and genuine care for families and staff.

In

2003

, Karen founded

Swim&Gym Summer Camp

with a simple but powerful vision: to create a summer experience where children could stay active, build confidence, and feel truly supported. What began as an extension of her commitment to youth development has grown into an award-winning camp serving generations of Madison families.

Swim&Gym’s emphasis on

fun, fitness, friendships, and safety

reflects Karen’s belief that camps and swim schools are about more than programs; they’re about people.

Karen’s dedication and leadership have been recognized at the highest levels. Over the years, she has received multiple honors, including:

She has also served on the

Board of Directors for the United States Swim School Association (USSSA)

three times

, helping guide the direction of swim education nationwide.

As a

national and international public speaker

, Karen has shared her expertise on topics such as:

At the heart of Karen’s work is what many know as

“The SwimWest Way,”

a philosophy centered on caring for your

team

, your

families

, and your

community

. It’s a belief that when staff feel supported and valued, they create extraordinary experiences for children.

This philosophy continues to shape Swim&Gym Summer Camp today through leadership development, staff culture, and a deep commitment to doing what’s right for kids, families, and the community.

Outside of her professional achievements, Karen is deeply involved in her community. She currently serves as the

Treasurer of the Lakeshore Region Pony Club

and enjoys spending time riding her

thoroughbred horse, Snickers,

a reflection of her lifelong love of learning, discipline, and connection.

Karen Clay’s legacy is not measured only in awards or years of service, but in the countless children who learned confidence through movement, the staff members she mentored, and the families who trusted her programs year after year.

As Swim&Gym Summer Camp continues under the leadership of

Kristina Bauer, Ethan Staley, and Karen Clay

, Karen’s values remain at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that each summer is filled with care, purpose, and unforgettable memories.