My Y Story – Fritz Family

The YMCA had always been a cornerstone of our community. But it wasn’t until my retirement from Pro Football and we moved back into the area that we became members and we truly understood its impact on our lives. Our family, consisting of my wife, our two children, and myself, found a new rhythm and balance through the diverse programs and facilities the YMCA offers.

Our journey began with a shared love for swimming. My son, a sprinter, and my daughter, a competitive distance swimmer, were already passionate about the sport. The YMCA’s pool became a staple in our weekly exercise regime. My son thrived in the short bursts of speed, while my daughter found her stride in the endurance challenges. Their dedication to swimming honed their skills and instilled a sense of discipline and perseverance.

But swimming was just the beginning. The YMCA offered a plethora of activities that catered to all our interests. My wife and I re-discovered the joy of weightlifting and took on some new classes like spin, TRX, and yoga. These sessions became our sanctuary, a place where we could train together at each other pace and appropriate competitive level. The variety of classes kept us engaged and motivated, ensuring that our workouts were never monotonous. It has carried on as one of our date nights.

As a family, we are regularly at the YMCA. This routine not only improved our physical health but also strengthened our bond. We encouraged each other, celebrated our achievements, and supported one another through challenges. The YMCA became a place where we could connect, away from the distractions of daily life.

Living in Spokane, we’ve often faced unpredictable weather. The YMCA provided a haven where we could stay active regardless of the conditions outside. This consistency was crucial, especially for my children, who needed to maintain their competitive edge. The indoor facilities ensured that their training was never compromised, allowing them to stay on top of their game.

One of the most memorable moments of our journey was the post-Labor Day open water swim. After months of regular training in the YMCA pool, I decided to take on the 1.3+ mile challenge. It was a daunting task, but the support of my family and the skills I had developed gave me the confidence to compete. I finished 66th out of over 150 participants, a personal triumph that I will always cherish. To top it off, my daughter won the entire race, a testament to her dedication and the excellent training she received.

Our YMCA membership continues to transform our lives in ways we never imagined. It has given us the tools to lead a balanced, healthy lifestyle and has brought us closer as a family. The lessons we’ve learned, the friendships we’ve made, and the milestones we’ve achieved are all part of our incredible journey at the YMCA. We are grateful for the opportunities it has provided and look forward to many more years of growth and happiness.