Kaitlin Staines, an artistic swimmer from the United States, shares her journey from competitive artistic swimming to mastering the sport in a new light in this Underwater Chats Exclusive Interview. With a history that began at the age of eight, Kaitlin’s passion for the water has led her through various clubs and competitions, culminating in her current role with the Nevada Desert Mermaids.
A Life in the Water
Kaitlin reflects on her early days in artistic swimming, expressing how she was drawn to the sport after watching friends participate. “I tried it and I never looked back,” she says, highlighting the joy and connection she found in the water. After competing at high levels, including being part of the 2012 junior national team, Kaitlin transitioned into coaching and performing in Las Vegas. Through artistic swimming, she has unlocked opportunities she once dreamed of, such as participating in music videos and performances for major corporations.
Embracing Change
As the sport evolves, Kaitlin has faced the challenge of adapting to new rules in artistic swimming. “It’s super humbling to relearn synchronized swimming with the new rules,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of teaching foundational skills even as the sport changes. The dynamic between coaching and competing has reshaped her perspective, allowing her to appreciate the nuances of the sport from multiple angles.
Preparing for Buenos Aires 2026
With her duet partner, Kaitlin is gearing up for the upcoming masters competitions, specifically the PanAm Aquatics Masters Championships in Buenos Aires, Argentina later this year. “We’re excited to present our new free program,” she shares, acknowledging the mix of nerves and anticipation that comes with competing at a high level. Kaitlin is focused not just on winning but on creating a memorable performance that resonates with the audience.
The Masters Experience
Reflecting on the differences between masters competitions and her earlier experiences, Kaitlin describes the atmosphere as more relaxed and fun. “Masters was just so like free. You’re just free to do whatever you wanted without…” This newfound freedom allows her to enjoy the sport while still pushing for excellence.
Kaitlin’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of artistic swimming, reminding us that it’s not only about competition but also about connection, joy, and personal growth.
If you’re intrigued by Kaitlin’s story and want to learn more about her journey and experiences, listen to the full interview for deeper insights.
