South Cove Club houseSwimming Venue in Riverview, FL

With over eight years of experience as a swim instructor, Mercedez Shelton has been teaching swimming since she was 16. She has worked with students of all ages from infants in “Mommy and Me” classes to children, teens, adults and elderly, adapting her teaching style to meet each individual’s needs. Mercedez is passionate about helping swimmers build confidence, improve technique, and develop a lifelong love for the water. She is skilled in a variety of swim programs and teaching methods and brings a positive, encouraging approach to every lesson. Beyond swim instruction, she has experience leading water-based activities such as water aerobics and fitness exercises, and her background as a nanny and after-school program director gives her exceptional skills in childcare, safety, and classroom management. Mercedez prides herself on her ability to connect with students and parents alike, creating a safe, fun, and engaging environment where every swimmer can thrive.

"My son has mild sensory challenges, and finding the right instructor was hard. Mercedez was incredible, she was patient, understanding, and creative with her approach. He looks forward to every lesson now and has made so much progress in just a few months.