10/07/2026
Introducing your 2026-2027 SALA Executive Board🌊
Swipe to learn more about them🌞
President: Max Balch
Max has been a part of SALA and SJC Marine Rescue for 6 years. After attending college for Dance, she practiced as a yoga instructor, traveled internationally, and more recently spent a year and a half sailing around the pacific and southern ocean. She worked as a seasonal lifeguard and zone supervisor for 5 years before becoming a St. Johns County Fire Rescue Firefighter in January 2026. Max previously served as SALA’s Vice President and Comp Team Captain before becoming President. Her favorite events to compete in are Landline & American/International Iron Man. Max enjoys spending time near the ocean and protecting and serving the people in the city she grew up in!
Vice President: Tyrel Emig
Tyrel just finished his 5th year as a SJC lifeguard. While attending Flagler College, he was a part of the Cross Country and Track and Field team. When he’s not protecting our beaches, Tyrel also works as a Sheriff with SJCSO. He enjoys being a part of the competition team, competing in the sprinting events.
Treasurer: Jake Tustin
Jake has been a SJC lifeguard for 9 years, moving from seasonal guard to full-time staff. He attended the University of South Florida and worked as an accountant before transitioning to a full-time Marine Rescue position. Jake loves anything in the water including swimming, surfing, fishing!
Secretary: Clare Cassidy
Clare just finished her 7th summer as an ocean lifeguard. Before that, she was a junior guard and has been competing in surf lifesaving sport events since she was 9. She graduated in 2025 from Flagler College with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art and is currently an Administrative Assistant at the St. Augustine Art Association. She is a retired competitive swimmer but running has been her new sport of choice. Clare enjoys educating the public on ocean safety and welcoming new people to the lifesaving community!
Member Communications: Devin Mantei
Devin began lifeguarding in 2024 after graduating from Florida Southern College. She is currently attending the University of St. Augustine for her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. A former
