As a Masters swimmer who often trains with the SwimRVA Hammerheads, I’ve been lucky to witness Jonathan Kaplan’s incredible leadership and generosity firsthand. Whether it’s sharing training tools, cheering me on during a national record-breaking swim, or taking the time to discuss my splits, Jonathan has gone above and beyond to encourage and support me. Interviewing him was not just insightful—it was deeply inspiring. His story of resilience, gratitude, and dedication to making a positive impact through swimming left me reflecting on how much one person can truly shape a community. Listen to the interview HERE
For Jonathan Kaplan, head coach of the SwimRVA Rapids, swimming has always been more than just a sport—it’s a metaphor for life and a means to create positive ripples in the world. Kaplan’s journey, marked by his adoption story, serves as a profound example of how challenges and blessings can shape a life of purpose and impact.
From Zero to Over 500 Swimmers: A Vision Realized
Since 2018, Kaplan has transformed the SwimRVA Rapids program from nonexistent to a thriving community of over 580 swimmers. His philosophy? Build an environment where swimmers want to show up—not because they have to, but because they find joy, connection, and inspiration in the pool. This ethos has turned early-morning practices into vibrant gatherings, with young athletes cheering each other on and celebrating the process as much as the results.
Kaplan emphasizes creating a positive and inclusive culture that fosters lifelong love for swimming. He often says, “Swimming shouldn’t be something kids want to escape when they graduate high school. It should be a part of their lives forever.”
The Adoption Story That Inspires a Lifetime of Giving
Central to Kaplan’s worldview is his adoption story—a narrative filled with loss, love, and a sense of destiny. Born to parents who had endured the devastating loss of their first child, Kaplan was adopted, along with his sister, and raised in a family that viewed adoption as their greatest blessing.
“The greatest thing that’s ever happened to me in my life was becoming adopted,” Kaplan shares. “It gave me a chance at life, and I feel an immense responsibility to make the most of it—to honor the opportunity I’ve been given and to have the most powerful impact on the largest number of people.”
This sense of gratitude drives Kaplan’s passion for coaching. For him, swimming is more than a sport—it’s a platform to teach resilience, teamwork, and the value of pushing through life’s challenges.
Building Champions in and Out of the Water
Kaplan’s coaching philosophy extends beyond strokes, turns and splits. While he’s guided swimmers to Olympic trials and beyond, his true joy comes from helping individuals—be it kids, Masters swimmers, or fellow coaches—realize their potential. He’s quick to point out that champions aren’t defined solely by medals but by their commitment to doing the hard things others might shy away from.
“It’s the little things—extra dolphin kicks, showing up even when it’s tough—that add up over time,” he explains. “These habits not only make better swimmers but better people.”
A Legacy of Connection and Empowerment
As Kaplan has stepped into a broader leadership role, mentoring 27 coaches who collectively influence hundreds of swimmers, his impact has only multiplied. Whether on deck or through motivational Instagram reels, Kaplan’s message resonates: Swimming is a journey, not a destination.
His story serves as a reminder that every life—no matter how it begins—can create waves of positivity and change. Kaplan’s approach, grounded in gratitude and a deep love for swimming, continues to inspire swimmers of all ages to dive in, embrace challenges, and leave their own legacy.
Takeaway: Kaplan’s story underscores the transformative power of swimming not just as a sport but as a lifelong tool for growth, connection, and resilience. His example reminds us that no matter where life starts, we all have the potential to make a meaningful splash.
