I’ve worked at the Rye Y for the last 21 years, since 1994. I began as a staff member in the Fitness Center, working the desk and helping members with the equipment. About one year later, the Y asked if I would start teaching water and ground aerobics.
I grew up as a competitive swimmer at my local Y in Pennsylvania and have always been drawn to YMCAs and the water. I already had previous aquatics training from another Y in New Rochelle (where I happened to meet my husband). We now have three children, a 13, 12, and 3-year-old. All of my kids have grown up at the Y. My 3-year-old even knows the way; he directs me when I’m driving here. I taught all my water aerobics classes with my babies in my baby carrier – they would sleep the entire time I instructed.
The Rye Y is a great community. It’s relaxed and has a lot of activities that fit any age group. Our family has taken so many classes here – everything from karate to gymnastics and all of them have gone through the swim program. This place has shown my family and me the way to lead an active lifestyle, which is such an important lesson that I want to teach my children. My older children feel like the Y is a second home. They walk in the door and they know everyone and everyone knows them. It’s a comfort and safe haven for them.
I recently stopped teaching water aerobics as a staff member, but I still volunteer two times a week. I love that it keeps me active and in the water. Raising three children can be hectic, but I love the flexibility of the hours at the Y so I can sneak in and sneak out to fit my exercise in.
Once my schedule allows me, a personal goal is to train and complete a mini-triathlon.
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