Denis Bondarenko started diving at the age of 6. He soon became a member of the USSR Junior Olympic Team, and finally the National Olympic Team of Kazakhstan. He was the National Champion of Kazakhstan, a title he held for numerous years. He was also Gold and Silver Medalist of 1995 Asian Championships, finalist of World University Games in 1997, and Bronze Medalist of CanAmex Grand Prix in 1999.

Denis has 15 years of coaching experience, including lessons with various age groups, and National and International level divers. His coaching style is direct, succinct, and personalized. Emphasizing dryland training, Denis provides thorough and actionable feedback. 

Most recently a coach at Stanford University, he began his career as an assistant coach in Kazakhstan, then coached the Kazakhstan Junior National Team before moving to Maryland to coach the Maryland Dive Club. Many of his divers were participants in Zone, Regional and National championships.