Making his collegiate coaching debut in December of 2011, Michael Ackalitis had brought a wealth of experience to the College in just a short period of time.  A native of Staten Island and the swimming circuit, Ackalitis was an accomplished swimmer at Monsignor Farrell High School, where he excelled in the freestyle and butterfly strokes, while also diving for the Lions.  

Ackalitis went on to a decorated four-year swim career at St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, New Jersey, where he was team captain in 2009 and 2010. He made four successive trips to ECAC postseason competition, again in freestyle and butterfly events.

Alongside his collegiate swim career, Ackalitis served as a volunteer instructor with the Lightning Wheels club swim program at St. Peter’s, while also serving as an Assistant Manager at the Richmond County Country Club, where he helped oversee pool operations, lifeguard training meetings, and safety certifications.

After graduation, Ackalitis continued to serve at St. Peter’s as Assistant Swimming and Diving Coach for the 2010-11 season, while holding the school’s Assistant Aquatics Director position.  He also served as an assistant coach of the Monsignor Farrell High School team as well.