Ryan Kemp - Aquatics Coordinator

Born and raised in “Canada’s Ocean Playground”, Ryan has been swimming since a very young age, with one of his first childhood memories taking place at the Sportsplex pool.

From the pool deck at the Sackville Sports Stadium to the Aquatics Coordinator at the Dartmouth Sportsplex, Ryan has been working in aquatics for over 17 years. With a passion for health and safety, Ryan is a certified First Aid Instructor and has volunteer experience with HRM Fire as well as the Lifesaving Society of Canada. With the Lifesaving Society, Ryan travelled to the Dominican Republic, teaching firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and resort staff first aid and water rescue. He also runs many local exams and courses, helping lifeguards get certified and use proper lifesaving techniques.

Ryan is an athlete at heart, always training for his next triathlon or “attempting” to surf. His favourite programs at the Sportsplex include Tri-Fit (our social triathlon-based swim program), Gary’s spin class, and yoga. At work, Ryan is always on the go. He’s the point-of-contact for anyone with questions about the pool and is always checking in with lifeguards to see how things are going in the pool area and with swimming lessons. He also loves to interact with Sportsplex users, making sure they’re getting everything out of their workout or leisure time in the pool. When Ryan finds himself with a little spare time throughout the day, he loves to take a lunch break and get in a quick workout—whether it be in the Sportsplex fitness centre or outside in the Dartmouth Commons overlooking the Halifax harbour. Sitting down doesn’t come easily to Ryan!

Once of Ryan’s very first and favourite memories is riding the blue slide at the Dartmouth Sportsplex. Now, he’s a true waterslide enthusiast, going out of his way to experience every waterslide possible—especially when he’s out of the country! Ryan’s favourite water park is Aquacolors in Porec, Croatia.  “I’m so excited for the atmosphere to be even more welcoming at the new facility,” says Ryan. “The new facility will help everyone in the community live a healthier life.”