Why we created Splashdance
Splashdance was born out of a shared love for water, movement, and the pure joy that comes from combining the two. After decades immersed in the aquatic world as athletes and coaches, we (Khadija and Tracey!) knew there was something magical about the energy, connection, and creativity that happens in the pool. We wanted to share that feeling not just with swimmers but with everyone.
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We created Splashdance to bring a fresh, fun, and inclusive twist to aquatic fitness. It’s not just about working out (though you’ll definitely feel it!), it’s about feeling good, laughing together, and moving with confidence. Whether it’s grooving to choreography, gliding through water ballet-style movements, or building strength with a smile, our classes are designed to make you feel strong, expressive, and supported.
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With backgrounds that span everything from artistic swimming and Ironman racing to toy design, we believe movement should always have a sense of play. Splashdance is our way of blending expertise with joy, structure with spontaneity, and fitness with fun.
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So come as you are, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or trying Aquafit for the first time and let’s make some waves together.
Tracey Matthews
After a long and colorful career in the world of children’s toys, Tracey decided it was time to step away from the desk and dive headfirst into sharing her passion for movement and fun full-time!
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As a certified ASTRA Play Expert, Tracey brings the spirit of play to everything she does, especially in the pool! She’s CALA-certified (Canadian Aquafitness Leaders Alliance) in Vertical Water Foundations and Group Aquafitness, with specialty training in AquaFit conditioning for pickleball, creative choreography, and Aqua barre/ballet. Whether she’s leading a lively class with Splashdance or cueing up the next combo at the Taggart Family YMCA and City of Ottawa’s Pinecrest pool, Tracey is all about making fitness feel joyful and accessible.
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When she’s not leading Aquafit, Tracey is an accomplished Masters competitive swimmer, runner, and Ironman triathlete. She also coaches Masters and open-water swimmers, is completing her Swimming Canada Level 1 NCCP coaching, and proudly volunteers with the Cathy Brooks Swim Angel Program supporting swimmers with disabilities or anxiety as they take on the annual Bring on the Bay swim in the Ottawa River.
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With certifications in First Aid, CPR “C,” and AED, Tracey brings both energy and care to every class.
She looks forward to making a splash with you. Expect laughter, great tunes, and the best kind of workout you’ll look forward to!
Khadija Cutcher
Khadija brings over 40 years of aquatic experience and a whole lot of sparkle to Splashdance! A lifelong lover of the water, she was a member of the USA National Artistic Swimming Team for four years, taking home a gold medal at the 1991 Pan American Games, and even making a cameo swimming with Mike Myers in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me!
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She’s not just a performer, she’s a standout. Khadija is a world champion in both Masters Artistic Swimming and Masters Lifesaving. She’s a Chartered Professional Coach (ChPC) with the Coaching Association of Canada, a certified National Lifeguard through the Lifesaving Society, and has coached artistic swimming National Teams for both Team USA and Team Canada. Her classes are a blend of precision, artistry, and pure joy, infused with music, movement, and the belief that everyone can shine in the water.
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Outside the pool, Khadija wears another important cap: Certified Association Executive (CAE). She works with national organizations to support strong leadership, governance, and member experience.
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She looks forward to welcoming you to the pool where every class feels like a mini-performance and fun takes centre stage!