GoodbYe: Ragsdale shares what he will miss most

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 was focused on running the summer camp, which went from less than 10 participants to as many as 40 each week.

“We have built a great relationship with the school over the years,” he said. “But, we have also expanded on the adult sports programs. Most recently, there has been an interest in disc golf.”

Ragsdale said he is amazed by the amenities in Cassville.

“We have the pool, greenway trails and amazing parks,” he said. “Cassville has phenomenal amenities that the city has worked hard and well on over the years.”

Ragsdale said disc golf is one of the fastest growing sports, with leagues in Joplin, Springfield, northwest Arkansas and Monett.

“People travel for disc golf tournaments,” he said. “That brings foot traffic into our community so we can show them everything else we have to offer.”

Ragsdale said he is proud of getting to know the community and developing relationships that continue to bring people to the YMCA.

“As executive director, I have been able to build my own team, and we have a great team here,” he said. “I know this team can handle anything. They are more than capable to handle the day to day seamlessly.” When asked what he will miss the most, Ragsdale said the pool.

“I will both miss it the most and be the most relieved to not be in charge,” he said. “Training 16-year-olds to respond in life-saving events, and being on call 24/7, is stressful. But, at the same time, working with young adults and seeing their training fall into place as they step up — I have never been more proud.” The Ragsdale family will be moving to northwest Arkansas.

“I didn’t know what a small town would be like since I am from Kansas City,” he said. “But, I have fallen in love. I have a solid group of friends and a solid church, and I have watched these kids grow up. In a way, I feel like I am leaving a family.”

Ragsdale said a mark of a good leader is the ability to walk away and have a team take over.

“We have a strong board and a strong team,” he said. “I hope the Y will continue to be a resource for the community. What we have isn’t just me, it is so much bigger than that.

“I hope people know just how much I love the community and how much everyone means to me.”

Ragsdale said from day one, he has felt trusted and accepted.

“This is a so long for now, not a goodbye,” he said. “We still have family and friends here, and we will be just down the road. We will drop in.”

Ragsdale leaves a team who he feels will be more than capable to continue building the community for many years to come. He will take on the director of volunteer services at Mercy Hospital.

“It will be a good fit for me,” Ragsdale said.