Coaches

Kelly Palace brings decades of elite experience as both a swimmer and coach to St. Pete Masters, as the new Head Coach as of January 2026. A former NCAA Division I head coach, lifelong competitor, and USMS-certified Masters Coach, Kelly holds ASCA Level 4 USA Swimming and NCAA Division I coaching certifications. An NCAA Division I All-American, Olympic Trials qualifier, and Masters world-record setter, she believes Masters swimming should be challenging, inclusive, and joyful. Kelly’s coaching philosophy emphasizes smart, purposeful training and technical excellence, creating an environment where swimmers of all abilities — from first-time Masters participants to world-class competitors — feel supported, motivated, and inspired. Her husband of 22 years, Mark, is also a Masters swimmer and certified Masters Coach. 

Christopher Stickle brings energy, consistency, and deep competitive experience to St. Pete Masters as an Assistant Coach. Chris has been leading SPM afternoon practices since October 2025, providing steady coaching, structure, and support for Masters swimmers across abilities. An accomplished Masters athlete, he has logged over 670 career swims, earned 136 Top Ten achievements, and received extensive USMS All-American honors across pool, long-distance, and relay disciplines. His coaching background includes serving as a high school team captain, a state and regional championship qualifier, a summer league assistant and head coach, and a volunteer Masters coach. Chris is passionate about helping swimmers train with purpose, race with confidence, and enjoy the process of getting better in the water.