Newtown Community Center has named Kristin Rebelo its first director of aquatics. Rebelo will oversee aquatic programming in the community center, which features a 25-yard, six-lane lap pool and separate zero-entry recreational pool. She will also direct other town waterfront facilities, including Treadwell Park and Eichler’s Cove.

“Kristin’s experience, energy, and enthusiasm will help us build our aquatics offerings to the community,” Matthew Ariniello, community center director, said.

Most recently, Rebelo was the aquatics director at the Hamden/North Haven YMCA. Prior to the YMCA, her career in aquatics began with the City of Cincinnati before taking over Wings over Water in Fairfield as the swim school director. Rebelo’s new position is one of the many shared services being managed through the community center, according to Ariniello. “This ensures the same quality experiences at all of our waterfronts and supports our departments financially.”

“I want to be able to help grow and create aquatic programs that will not only benefit the residents of Newtown, but also create more opportunities for people of all ages,” Rebelo said. In her new role as aquatics director, Rebelo will organize swim lessons and aquatic programs and manage all aquatic staff.

“My goal is to grow a year-round swim lesson program and to create multi-generational programs for individuals of all levels. This will bring families closer together and create a stronger community,” Rebelo said. “One of the most important parts of this job is building relationships with community members in which we serve. I am looking forward to being part of a great team.”

“It is my hope that Kristin’s knowledge and experiences will help set the foundation for a very strong aquatics department,” Ariniello said. “Our hope is to host quality swimming lessons, water aerobics, water fitness, and specialized aquatics programs.”

Rebelo began her new role on March 18. She can be reached at kristin.rebelo@newtown-ct.gov.