Our Journey…

DIRECTOR

Davidhas been climbing for 14 years and coaching for 9, working with athletes at every level—from first-time climbers to World Cup competitors. As the director of SDCA, he leads the development of all programs, ensuring a training environment that challenges, supports, and cultivates long-term growth in young climbers. His coaching philosophy extends beyond physical performance, helping athletes build a deeper connection to climbing as a lifelong pursuit. His vision for SDCA, co-founded with Marco, builds on the foundation laid by C5 Climbing, continuing a legacy of structured, thoughtful coaching that empowers climbers to reach their full potential.

ELITE HEAD COACH

Marco is the head elite coach at San Diego Climbing Academy and is currently completing his master’s in kinesiology. With years of experience working with a diverse range of athletes, he specializes in developing individualized solutions and crafting unique exercises that help climbers unlock their potential. Marco views coaching and setting as deeply interconnected, using both to create training environments that develop adaptability, creativity, and well-rounded skill sets. Growing up climbing trad, competing at the national level, and refining his craft as a route setter has given him a deep appreciation for the diversity of movement in climbing. Alongside David, he co-founded SDCA to build on the foundation laid by C5 Climbing, continuing a legacy of athlete-centered, progressive coaching that prepares climbers for success at every level.

HEAD RECREATION COACH

Cameron has been climbing for over 13 years and coaching youth for the past decade. As the head of SDCA’s recreational program, he brings a unique blend of experience, creativity, and care to his coaching. Currently pursuing his Master’s in Social Work with a focus on child development, Cameron is passionate about developing kids through embodied play and scaffolded challenges that meet them where they are. He believes that climbing is a powerful medium for growth—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and builds his sessions around exploration, movement, and fun. Outside the gym, Cameron loves to surf, cook, and read books on cognitive science. His calm, thoughtful approach helps kids build confidence, develop physical and emotional resilience, and cultivate a lasting love for the sport.

ASSISTANT COACH

Alina has been climbing and competing for 10 years, beginning her journey at Mesa Rim before continuing her journey with C5. Training under C5’s philosophy helped shape her approach to climbing, leading her to earn a spot on the U.S. Youth National Team and compete at Youth World Championships. Now a coach and setter, Alina is passionate about helping climbers develop a positive relationship with the sport. One that prioritizes learning, curiosity, and personal growth over results. She believes in celebrating progression and guiding athletes to find joy in the process of improvement. Alina is currently studying psychology at Palomar College, with plans to transfer to UCSD, where she hopes to explore the mental aspects of climbing and performance.

ASSISTANT COACH

Ian has been climbing at a high level for the past six years and brings four years of experience as a route setter, including setting for championship events. As a full-time commercial setter and youth team coach, Ian plays a key role in creating environments that challenge and inspire athletes. He actively competes in the National Cup Series and brings that same competitive spirit and insight to his coaching. Ian is passionate about helping climbers realize they’re capable of far more than they think—pushing past perceived limits and redefining what’s possible through bold, creative movement. His approach blends thoughtful instruction with dynamic setting to support both technical growth and self-belief.

Fiona has been climbing for 12 years and found a home in the bouldering community at The Wall. She fell in love with climbing for its creative and intense nature—but also for the community it builds. As a coach, Fiona brings passion, energy, and care to every session. She loves working with kids and sees coaching as a way to both give back and grow as a leader. Outside of the gym, Fiona hopes to pursue a career in medicine—potentially working with children in the future.

Taiko is a student-athlete and assistant coach at San Diego Climbing Academy. He has been climbing for seven years, starting at age eight, and has competed for the past three years. He enjoys climbing for its strong sense of community and for the way it allows him to express himself through movement. Climbing also provides him with something to work toward over time, helping him improve not only as a climber but as a person by developing a growth mindset. Taiko aspires to become a competition route setter and a coach who is well-rounded in both the social coach–athlete dynamic and the technical relationship between climber and climb. His long-term goal is to continue climbing throughout his life—not necessarily to climb harder, but to explore and create his own style in climbing, route setting, and life.