Meet your coaches and staff

Lynda’s background in competitive paddling started in high school, and although she was a late joiner to the sport, she was part of a very successful CCC women’s war canoe crew program and developed a passion for sprint canoe. While completing her Physical Education degree in Calgary, Lynda worked as a recreation instructor and coach at the Club, completing her Competition Development coach certification.

After a few years of on-and-off travelling and coaching, Lynda returned to Calgary and took on the role of Club Manager as an interim position, which ended up being a rather long temporary position. Lynda’s primary management duties today include the building, recreation staff and programs. Lynda leads the very successful Outrigger program. Lynda has taken on many Board roles in various paddling organizations over the years and currently sits on the International Va’a Federation’s Board as a Technical Director supporting host countries in running the World Championship events. Specific to the Sprint program, Lynda works with Mike and Kirsten to support administrative work such as the budget, programming, grant applications for equipment purchase and various other tasks, including the odd road trip here and there moving the trailer to various events.

Lynda's dedicated involvement and extensive knowledge have significantly contributed to the Club's growth and success.

Kirsten, our Assistant Manager, is truly a 'jack of all trades.' In addition to her role as assistant manager, she seamlessly transitions into the role of recreation instructor and coach as needed. Throughout the season, Kirsten plays a crucial role in facilitating communication, working closely with coaches to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated experience for everyone.

Kirsten started her journey at the CCC at the age of 8 in the Learn 2 Paddle programs and joined the sprint program when she was 15 years old. At 16, she volunteered her summers to help out with the L2P Programs and soon joined the staff the following year.

Kirsten has a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education (Eco-Tourism Outdoor Leadership) from Mount Royal University with a Major in Business. She also has a Certificate and Diploma from College of the Rockies in Adventure Tourism Business Operations.

Outside of the CCC, Kirsten enjoys XC skiing in the winter, paddling whenever she can with her family, driving to Florida for the CCC, and spending time in BC at her family's cottage.

Be sure to connect with Kirsten, her versatility and dedication greatly contribute to our team's success.

Mike's coaching philosophy centers on a mastery-based, growth-mindset approach to develop elite, well-rounded athletes. He prioritizes technical skill, strategic insight, and mental resilience. Holding sports science credentials from Dalhousie University and the University of Calgary, Mike also earned a graduate certificate in High-Performance Coaching and Technical Leadership from UBC. He is a Chartered Professional Coach and published researcher in CanoeKayak biomechanics and injury prevention. Over his career, Mike has guided club teams to Canadian national titles and coached both World Championship medalists and Olympians.

Graham joined the Calgary Canoe Club as an athlete in 2002 before transitioning to the coaching team in 2009. His shift from athlete to coach highlights his deep dedication to the CCC and his commitment to mentoring the club's next generation of talent.

To support his coaching, Graham earned a bachelor's degree in Physical Literacy from Mount Royal University and is a CSEP Certified Personal Trainer. He also holds a Competition Development certification through the NCCP. This strong educational foundation equips Graham to design comprehensive training programs that support the holistic growth and success of his athletes.

Ornmadee is a Chartered Professional Coach and a certified NCCP Competition-Development coach. Renowned for creating training environments that are both rigorous and rewarding, she brings deep expertise in practical coaching methodologies to the club.

Her paddling journey began at the Calgary Canoe Club at age 10. Since transitioning to coaching in 2010, she has developed into a versatile, seasoned coach, having led programs at elite East Coast clubs like Maskwa and Sackawa.

A passionate advocate for women in coaching, Ornmadee continuously expands her expertise in pedagogy, strength and conditioning, and coach facilitation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Mount Saint Vincent University and an Education degree from Ambrose University—an academic foundation that elevates her ability to connect with athletes of all ages.

Operating within a mastery-based framework, Ornmadee prioritizes clear communication and fosters a supportive yet high-expectation environment centered on collaboration between coach, athlete, and parent.

Bringing enthusiasm and skill to the water to foster athletic capabilities and a collaborative team dynamic.

A former Canadian National Team kayak athlete with over 15 years of coaching experience, Emily is a vital asset to the Calgary Canoe Club. Her deep understanding of high-performance sport is rooted in her years representing Canada in international competition.

Emily holds a B.A. in Psychology, an NCCP certification in Fundamental Movement Skills, and a HIGH FIVE certification in the Principles of Healthy Child Development. Blending sport science with mindfulness, she is also a 200-hour certified yoga teacher (Dynamic and Yin) and a certified family yoga instructor. This diverse skill set allows Emily to deliver a comprehensive coaching approach that balances athletic excellence with holistic athlete well-being.

Robin is dedicated to creating positive, fun, and inclusive environments where athletes can grow and achieve their personal goals. A lifelong paddler who has coached across Canada, he brings a rich perspective to the club, aiming to inspire a lasting love for the sport and a commitment to health and fitness. Robin holds a degree in Health and Physical Education, is a Certified Personal Trainer through the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP), and is certified as an NCCP Competition-Development coach—equipping him with the perfect blend of theory and practical skill to guide athletes to success.

Justin has been a fixture at the Calgary Canoe Club and has been a Team Canada member at Olympic Hopes and the Junior World Championships. Justin has been a CCC coach since 2023.

Justin’s experience and enthusiasm make him an invaluable asset to our team and an inspiration to our athletes.

Proud member of the Calgary Canoe Club coaching team, bringing dedication and support to our regular training programs.

Dedicated to helping athletes build skills, pursue goals, and enjoy competitive paddling within the club network.

Xavier has been coaching since 2023. Xavier is an ELCC certified coach. Throughout his time at the club, he has developed a love for paddling and enjoys helping athletes build their skills and confidence on the water. Xavier is committed to creating a positive environment where paddlers can challenge themselves, have fun, and achieve their goals. He looks forward to sharing his passion for the sport, inspiring athletes, and continuing to build a strong team.

Bringing enthusiasm and skill to the water to foster athletic capabilities and a collaborative team dynamic.

Bringing enthusiasm and skill to the water to foster athletic capabilities and a collaborative team dynamic.

Guiding our up-and-coming paddlers with positive training techniques and regular developmental instruction.

Assisting on-water sessions with practical tips, encouraging environments, and focused development strategy.

Supporting athletes through continuous learning, direct feedback, and high-energy workout programs.

Pippa has been a part of the Calgary Canoe Club since 2019 as a sprint canoe athlete, and she is thrilled to be returning for her second year as a coach. She loves the positive community at the club and can't wait to help make the club a fun, encouraging, and energetic place where kids can improve their skills, build confidence, make new friends, and create amazing memories.

Bringing enthusiasm and skill to the water to foster athletic capabilities and a collaborative team dynamic.

I am a competitive U16 sprint canoeist, I am thrilled to bring my passion, technical knowledge, and core NCCP training to the Calgary Canoe Club coaching team. My coaching philosophy centers on fostering a positive, high-energy environment where discipline on the water translates into building strong character and resilience off it. Ultimately, I am driven by helping young paddlers unlock their potential, refine their technique, and confidently achieve personal records.

Olivia has been coaching sprint canoeing since 2025. I’m super happy to be able to share the sport I love with kids around our communities. My goal is to foster a respectful, caring, and welcoming environment where paddlers feel supported to improve their skills, achieve their goals, and reach their full potential.

Elsie is dedicated to helping athletes improve their skills, build confidence, and have fun on the water. She loves working with paddlers to develop their strengths and ensures every athlete feels supported both on and off the water.

Umaima has been a sprint paddler for the past three years and is very excited to join the coaching team. She wants to create the same positive and encouraging environment that helped cultivate her love for paddling. She is thrilled to be part of the supportive community and to create a love of paddling to all participants.

Sofia has been doing sprint canoe for several years and is excited to be part of the coaching team. Since she knows what it feels like to learn, train, and race, she wants to help younger athletes build confidence, improve their skills, and enjoy being on the water.

I’m excited to be coaching! I joined the sprint team in 2023 and have loved being involved at the Calgary Canoe Club ever since, both on the water and as part of the boat bay team. I love being outdoors, staying active, and helping others learn. My goal is to create a fun and supportive environment where athletes can build confidence, improve their skills, try new things, and enjoy their summer at the club. I’m looking forward to an awesome season!

Bringing enthusiasm and skill to the water to foster athletic capabilities and a collaborative team dynamic.