Toronto Climbing Academy instructors are qualified by the Ontario Rock-Climbing Association (ORCA), ACMG and/or have gone through intense in house training. In addition to their technical expertise, they are also talented and passionate educators.
Sasha Akalski – President
Our owner, Sasha Akalski, is an experienced professional rock climbing coach with a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education, and over 45 years of professional involvement as a climber, official, international judge, and coach. He has a Masters in mountaineering and rock climbing.
He graduated from the Sports University in Bulgaria and went on to coach the Bulgarian Competition Climbing Team. Sasha is a former Canadian representative for the International Sport Climbing Federation.
He contributed to writing "Wall Climbing Standards"- for Ontario Secondary and Elementary Curriculum Physical Education Safety Guidelines- OPHEA.
As the gym's head trainer and program designer, Sasha is dedicated to providing quality programs at all levels.
Our Head route-setter Chris, has been competing for many years in National and International events:
Chris Akalski Bcomm. – Co-owner and General Manager
Chris graduated from Ryerson University- a bachelor of business administration and retail. He has successfully completed the Climbing Gym Instructor Level 1 - run by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides and certified by CWA.
He has over 30 years of climbing experience including many popular sends of 5.13s and even manage to climb all the lead routes at the local Ontario Mountain Nemo Crag. He has been the Head Instructor and Route-setter for twenty years and is the founder and program coordinator of the popular Kids Training Courses. His competition experience has helped him organize and run many climbing events. His father has been a great influence and mentors him each step of the way. He enjoys climbing indoors and outdoors and he loves talking and sharing climbing stories. His positive energy and warm heart represent the image of the TCA.
Marieta Akalski RMT and Co-owner, Dedicated Climber and Champion
Marieta graduated from Ryerson University- bachelor of business administration and finance. She completed Registered Massage Therapy in 2011.
She has also 30 years of climbing experience and has won over 10 competitions worldwide including being the 2001 Canadian National Bouldering Champion.
As a National Team member, she represented Canada in the World Cup competitions in 2013 and 2014. She sent two 5.14a and one 5.14b climbs in two different continents in 2014.
Manager: Monserrat
Assistant Manager: Russel
Captains, coaches, and setters: Jesus, Wil, Aiden, Lily, Norah, Kayla, Jonah, Quinn, Aurora, and Morgan ...just to name a few, as well as others work hard each day to create interesting climbing courses and memorable experiences while maintaining a professional, fun, and positive environment.