You’re Invited to Celebrate Coach Ellen!
An Evening Celebrating Coach Ellen Johnston & the Water Rats Community
Join us as we celebrate Coach Ellen Johnston’s 40th year with the Water Rats.
For four decades, Coach Ellen has inspired generations of swimmers and helped build the Water Rat Swim Team’s tradition of excellence, shaping athletes, forging lifelong friendships, and strengthening our community.
Her extraordinary impact has been recognized at both the state and national levels. Ellen was named the Larry Lyons YMCA National Coach of the Year in 2015, is a multiple-time Connecticut Senior Coach of the Year, and in 2025 received the prestigious U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee Order of Ikkos Medal from two-time U.S. Paralympian Matthew Torres.
Join alumni, current and former families, coaches, and friends for an evening of reconnecting, sharing memories, and honoring Coach Ellen’s remarkable impact.
Event Details:
Saturday, January 23, 2027
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Westport Weston Family YMCA
Cocktail-Style Reception · Coach Ellen Tribute · Reunion
Festive Cocktail Attire
Please note: This is a 21+event.
Celebrating the Past. Investing in the Future.
Proceeds from this special evening will support the Water Rats Fund, a dedicated fund that will help ensure the Water Rat Swim Team continues to thrive for generations to come by supporting coaching excellence, equipment, travel, scholarships, and the team’s greatest needs.
Tickets On Sale October 5
Individual tickets are $200 and will go on sale Monday, October 5, 2026.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities are now available for families and businesses interested in celebrating Coach Ellen’s extraordinary impact and investing in the future of the Water Rats.
Can’t Attend?
Make a gift to the Water Rats Fund in honor of Coach Ellen’s 40th year with the team.
Questions?
Jen Malichio
Director of Development
jmalichio@westporty.org
203-571-6043
