When Brian and his family moved to the Henry County area, his kids enrolled in age-appropriate swimming classes. Today, Brian is the Aquatics Director at YMCA.

Written by: Amber Estelle  (Contributing author) September 11, 2020

After returning to live in his wife’s hometown, Brian Mackie started looking for a place for their three children to take swimming lessons. This search led them to Henry County YMCA. Brian described, “Initially our oldest two children were a little tentative and hesitant in the water, but after the swim lessons, they began to really enjoy it. When our youngest was old enough, we added him to lessons. After years of lessons, they are all now strong and confident swimmers who enjoy the water.”

What started with swim lessons evolved into complete family membership and participation. Brian shared, “We also began to take our kids to the monthly Kids Night Out programs. Our children really enjoyed both of these programs and always looked forward to them.” Brian also took the time while his children were involved in lessons to become a swim instructor, and eventually, he added lifeguarding.

Brian has completed degrees in secondary education and divinity. He recently achieved a Doctor of Ministry degree from Anderson University. He applies his educational background to his position as pastor at two local churches. Now, in addition to these pastoral positions, Brian is also the Aquatics Director at the Henry County YMCA.

He and his wife, Karen, along with their three children appreciate their time and experiences at the Y. Brian has goals for the community as members come along to seek aquatic experiences as well. While COVID-19 does limit current opportunities, Brian hopes to see the pool became a place that “helps people of all ages and stages of life to learn water safety and basic swimming techniques, build health through water-related exercise, and have fun in the water.”

If you’re interested in exploring more aquatic experiences at the Y, the pool is currently open:

* Monday – Friday 5:30 am-7 pm

* Saturday 8 am-3 pm

* Sundays 1 pm-3 pm

 

Brian added, “Adult water fitness classes are currently available in the mornings and evenings. We look forward to offering children’s swim lessons again in the future!”