Hello Family & Friends,

I’m participating in this year’s Swim-For-A-Cause to raise money for my last trip to YMCA Nationals in Greensboro, NC. This event is really important to me. Last year, I was selected from swimmers across the country to offer a Motivational Devotion at the meet. I would like to share that speech with you (below), so you can see what swimming for the YMCA has offered me.
Sincerely,
Jessica Spitzer

Motivational Devotion (April 2017)
    Good evening, my name is Jess Spitzer and I swim for the Randolph YMCA in New Jersey. This is my
fifth year attending YMCA Short Course Nationals and I am grateful for every opportunity to compete here
in Greensboro. Nothing compares to the energy we feel when we gather at this special event and compete in the sport we love. Some swimmers are expected to advance to finals, place on the podium, and break records. Others of us are not, however, that is not the only reason we are here. We make this journey to measure ourselves against our own potential, enjoy a week of camaraderie with our teammates, and participate in something greater than ourselves- The National Community of YMCAs. Thanks to my coaches’ belief in me and my teammates' incredible talent, I had the privilege of participating in nationals for the first time at thirteen. In awe of the entire experience, I admired the older swimmers and continue to look to them as role models. It has been my goal to return to nationals every year since. The YMCA provides a family atmosphere enabling teammates to form strong bonds. I consider my teammates my brothers and sisters. Through the ups and downs, the smiles and tears, we push one another, as well as support one another. Not only do WE want to succeed, but we want EACH OTHER to succeed.
    Many people would consider us crazy for the enormous amount of time and sacrifice we invest in the
sport. Day after day, set after set, we continue to dive in, work hard, and strive to meet our goals. Nothing
is better than the feeling of finally reaching them. Although we may not receive the same street credit at school or air-time on TV as other sports, swimming has taught me what it means to be a true athlete. We
endure incredibly intense training to overcome both physical and mental obstacles. We must be dedicated, we must be focused, we must be disciplined, we must be wise, and most importantly, we must be humble.
    In addition to strengthening our physical and mental capabilities, the YMCA uniquely focuses on creating
compassionate athletes in and out of the pool. The YMCA embodies four core values: respect, responsibility, honesty and caring. These values provide a sense of service that is a gift the YMCA instills in us. Whether is it donating toys to the nearby children’s hospital, swimming as many laps as possible to raise money for those less fortunate, or welcoming swimmers of all abilities and disabilities, together we make a difference in the community. This will continue to enrich our lives long after our swimming careers have come to a close. When I am swimming in college, I know I will cherish the countless skills, values, friendships, and memories the YMCA has provided me. Thank you to all of the YMCA members who have made it possible for us to “dive” into this incredible experience together.