Laura and Janell are excited to introduce you to S.H.I.N.E Swim Academy, powered by Swim America.
Janell is incredibly grateful for the opportunity given to her by Rob and Chris to purchase the Swim School. Janell stared her time with the Swim School while attending ISU as an undergrad. Returning to Bloomington- Normal area in 2021 to raise her family. For years, it’s been a running joke that Janell would love to open her own swim school. Life, it seems, had the same idea—keeping Janell close to the water and placing her under the mentorship of Rob and Chris. Because of their guidance, Janell feels ready to carry the torch and continue providing high-quality swim instruction in a fun, supportive environment.
There are certainly big shoes to fill. In taking on this challenge, Janell realized that something important was missing—someone with the ability to see the whole picture and help bring it to life. That person is Laura Hutchins. Janell and Laura met at Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL. Their lives followed remarkably similar paths— both were homeschooled, both passionate about swimming, and both known for their long time involvement in the swimming community. Having swam from young ages in Central Illinois. They are certain to have crossed paths in the bullpen at numerous swim meets. Over time, they became very close friends being there for each other through loss and celebrations.
Janell introduced Laura to Chris at her youngest baby shower. Laura at the time was the Aquatic Director and Head Swim Coach at the McDonough County YMCA in Macomb, IL. Janell knew that Laura would be a perfect fit to help Rob and Chris manage the swim school. And today, we know that decision was exactly right!
Laura has always had a knack for organization, easing the scheduling stress for families all while ensuring kids are placed in the right classes to foster success in the program. She has an incredible ability to recognize the swimmers both in and out of the pool - and some how remembers names, skill levels and class times. Laura's attention to detail and care for each family is what makes her the perfect business partner. And today, we know that decision was exactly right.
Laura and Janell's commitment to delivering high-quality swim instruction in a safe, supportive, and fun environment remains stronger than ever. Their vision for the future of S.H.I.N.E. Swim Academy is very bright!
Here’s to S.H.I.N.E. Swim Academy—a place built on friendship, mentorship, and a shared love of swimming.
Lauar Brucker - Lead Instructor
I joined SHINE Swim Academy(formerly RKSA) in 2022 after relocating from Kansas to Illinois to pursue my undergraduate studies at Illinois State University. I am currently majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology with a pre-medical focus, working toward my goal of attending medical school.
When I began as a swim instructor, I had limited personal swimming experience. However, through teaching and applying the same techniques I shared with my students, I developed both my own skills and a genuine passion for instruction. Over time, I discovered not only greater confidence in the water, but also a deep sense of fulfillment in helping others grow.
It’s an honor to be part of SHINE Swim Academy, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a community that has played such a meaningful role in my own development. I look forward to continuing to inspire others, just as this academy has inspired me.
Alan Carter
Audrey Strubhar
Aylah Lafferty
Catherinie Steider
Char Bach
Darya Falstad
Erin Stroh
Jenna Silaggi
Jess Wenc
Jordan Costello
Ken Ota
Kristin Clay
Shelby Kent
Torey Langellier
