Rayle credits his coaching success to the people that helped him along the way, including former CYAC coach Ryan Sprang, former Shenandoah Marlins coach Norm Wright, UNCW coach Dave Allen and Western Albemarle coach Dan Bledsoe.

“There have been so many amazing coaches that have touched my life throughout the years,” Rayle said. “I could go on and on about every coach I had and the impact they had on me, either as a swimmer, coach or as a person. My experience with these coaches is what gives me my purpose daily as a coach now.”

Rayle credits Sprang for showing him the importance of having a passion for what you do and investing in each person or athlete that you work with. Wright stressed the importance of hard work on a daily basis and leading by example. Allen emphasized the importance of creating a positive culture within a team.

Bledsoe, who Rayle calls his “forever coach”, stressed investing in each swimmer for their entire swimming career and life.

“The impact he had on my life, but along with many others, inspires me to do the same for the athletes I work with,” Rayle said.

He said all of those mentors played a large role in this award.

“I cannot fully explain what the honor means to me,” Rayle said. “Coaching is a pretty selfless career as we work hard to help others achieve their goals. So, to be recognized by your peers in the sport across the country is extremely validating. More importantly, the award is a testament to the Charlottesville community. This would not have been possible without hard-working athletes, supportive parents and other coaches that helped facilitate the success of the CYAC age-group program.”