Matt O’Reilly

Lead Instructor

Originally from Durango, Colorado, Matt O’Reilly developed a passion for kayaking at an early age, competing at the highest levels while exploring the waterways of North and South America. As a member of the U.S. Olympic Development Team, he competed in the 1996 and 2000 U.S. Olympic Trials, refining his skills in high-performance paddling.

Since retiring from competitive racing, Matt has shifted his focus to raising his three children while continuing his dedication to public safety and rescue operations. He currently serves as a full-time firefighter and team leader on the Technical Rescue Team for the Medicine Hat Fire Department, where he applies his extensive experience in swiftwater and technical rescue.