I would like to let you know how much of a positive influence Coach Bella has been for me personally and for my rowing. I relocated to Cape Cod solely for the purpose of rowing with Cape Cod Youth Rowing in March of 2020. At that time, I contacted Coach Bella inquiring about the upcoming season and what I could do to prepare for that season. Coach Bella was nice enough to immediately set me up with Team Snap to include me in any team information that was being shared. I was also able to secure an ERG on which to practice during the quarantine and during the time leading up to our on the water practices. Thanks to Coach Bella, I was welcomed onto the team, never once feeling out of place. I consider Coach Bella not only my coach, but also a friend.The ability of Bella to clearly give me directions that I can understand (I have hearing loss and a processing disorder) and then clarify with me that I have truly understood the directions has been greatly appreciated. Bella exhibits the patience that someone with my disability does, indeed, need. I truly feel that I have grown as a rower under Coach Bella's direction. Bella's positive spirit makes going to practice a wonderful experience. I feel that Coach Bella has an in-depth understanding of the sport of rowing and is able to relay her knowledge at every practice. I especially like and enjoy that Coach Bella will take the time to take many videos of her rowers and then utilize those videos to demonstrate to them where they can make changes or tweak things as they practice. I have learned from her how to compensate for my shorter height, while maintaining good form and speed. She is able to manage large groups of children and teens at one practice making sure that each age group and skill level get the training and attention they deserve. At every practice we are all challenged and pushed to the best of our abilities, yet we leave practice feeling very positive about ourselves. While coaches on other teams may angrily yell at their team members, that is definitely not the case with Bella. I have always felt that I can approach Coach Bella with any problem I may be having, even if it does not pertain to a rowing related issue.Another aspect of Bella's coaching is her enthusiasm in helping seniors who are in the college search and who would like to row at the college level. Bella generously takes time from her day, after or before practices, to talk about potential college choices adding in her knowledge of different programs and coaches. She seems genuinely interested in helping seniors with their recruiting.It has been such a pleasure having Bella as my coach and I can honestly say that I miss seeing her on a daily basis. I am counting down the days until we can all be back on the water together. If I had to recommend a rowing coach, I would without any hesitation recommend Coach Bella.

When working with Bella, the first thing I noticed is that she goes above and beyond to ensure that her clients feel safe and comfortable, but also challenged. She has worked with me several times on different workouts and stretches in both gym and home settings, and helped me develop the skills and knowledge I need to work towards my own fitness goals. She is incredibly positive and encouraging, and delivered constructive feedback in a way that was productive and supportive. Her knowledge and experience were incredibly helpful, and I hope to continue working with her in the future!

I had thrown my back out in October stretching around to reach something in the back seat of my car. When I mentioned to Bella that I was so uncomfortable she offered to show me some yoga moves that I could do. I am a 60 year old woman and I am not in great physical shape so I was worried about taking her upon her offer because I did not want to further injure myself. Additionally I did not have the confidence that I could do it! I gave it a try and Bella took me through some very gentle stretching exercises that really helped me to recover. I use those exercises whenever I feel out of whack so to speak and they are very helpful. Bella has a kind and reassuring way about her and she instills confidence and never pushed me to do anything I was not ready to try. I would recommend her class as well as private coaching for times when you feel as if you need some one on one help. I can’t wait to attend more classes with Bella, she is very pro- body conscious! Meaning that all shape bodies can move! Bella makes you feel good about yourself no matter what stage of fitness you are in!