ABOUT SIDNEY
For as long as she can remember, Sidney Russell has felt at home in the open water. At ten years old, she completed her first swim from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores, tagging along with her brothers swim team. What began as early adventure later became a source of healing and, eventually, a lifelong relationship with the ocean. After a severe ankle break ended her competitive gymnastics career, Sidney found recovery and renewed purpose in the water.
Sidney grew up as an age group swimmer and later competed in high school swimming and diving. No matter where life took her, whether it was Upstate New York, Portland Maine, or San Diego, she always found her way back to open water. In 2021, that relationship deepened when she began pursuing marathon swims.
Based in San Diego, Sidney coaches a Masters team in La Jolla and co-coaches Ventura Cove Masters in Mission Bay. She works with swimmers of all levels, both in person and virtually, helping athletes build efficiency, resilience, and a genuine love of the water. Her coaching blends technical insight with empathy, meeting swimmers where they are and guiding them toward what they did not yet know was possible.
Beyond the water, Sidney is a wife and a mother of two. Life on her small homestead with cats, dogs, chickens, and goats keeps her grounded in the same values she brings to coaching: connection, curiosity, patience, and a deep respect for the water.
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USMS Level 1 Masters Coach
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WOWSA Level 3 Open Water Coach
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CPR/AED and First Aid
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Safesport
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Catalina Channel Swimming Federation Official Observer
Certifications
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Around Coronado Island - April 2021
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True Width of Lake Tahoe - July 2021
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Catalina Channel - Sept 2021
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Santa Barbara Channel (Anacapa) - July 2022
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Lake Tahoe Length - July 2022
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Round Trip Angel Island - Oct 2023
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English Channel - July 2024
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Two Way Anacapa - Aug 2024
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Two Way Catalina Channel - July 2025
Accomplishments
Marathon Swim Coaching
150
Every month
Designed for athletes preparing for marathon and ultra-distance swims. 6-month minimum to build safely, develop efficiency, and prepare for the physical and mental demands of long open-water efforts.
Valid until canceled
Swim Planning Session
50
A 30-minute planning session to talk through your swimming background, open-water goals, and readiness for coaching. Together, we’ll explore what the next steps could look like.
Valid for 3 months
Hold Your Spot
50
Every month
For athletes who wish to remain on Sidney’s roster while not actively training. This allows continued connection and an easy return to coaching when the athlete is ready to resume structured training.
Valid until canceled
COACHING SERVICES
Crew Chief (By Inquiry)
Comprehensive logistical and on-water support for long-distance and marathon swims. This role may include swim planning, safety coordination, feeding strategy support, communication with pilots or escorts, and day-of swim oversight to help athletes execute their swim safely and efficiently.
Swim Lessons
(Existing Monthly Clients Only) - $100/hour
In-person, one-on-one coaching sessions focused on stroke mechanics, efficiency, and specific technical needs. Lessons are customized based on current training goals and may take place in the pool or open water.
Kayaking (By Inquiry)
On-water safety and support provided by an experienced open-water paddler. Kayak support may include pacing assistance, navigation guidance, feeding support, and real-time communication during training swims or events.
Virtual Analysis
(Existing Monthly Clients Only) - $100
A detailed review of submitted swim video with written and/or recorded feedback. This service focuses on technique, movement patterns, and efficiency, with actionable suggestions that align with the athlete’s current training phase.