More Than a Swimmer

For Hattie, being a GCY Mako is about more than getting in the pool.

At a young age, Hattie has already spent four years growing as a swimmer on the YMCA of Greensboro’s year-round swim team. But when asked what she loves most about swimming, her answer had little to do with times, races or medals.

“My favorite part about it is, like, my friends and congratulating people,” Hattie said. “I’m very big on sportsmanship.”

That was easy to see during a recent swim meet. Hattie cheered for her teammates, celebrated their accomplishments, and encouraged the swimmers around her. Her positivity and genuine excitement for others stood out just as much as her performance in the pool.

But when she is competing, breaststroke is her favorite.

For the past four years, the GCY Makos have given Hattie the opportunity to grow through training, competition, and being part of a team. But swimming has also given her a place to build friendships, practice sportsmanship and learn how to celebrate the people around her.

Because at the Y, building strong swimmers is only part of the goal. It’s about helping young people grow into teammates, friends, and people who lift others up.