Sharyon Williams

I applied for a job at the Rye Y in 2018. On my first day, I fell in love with the Rye Y, especially the aquatics department. Everybody was so warm and welcoming. I just got a vibe - I have to be here!

I’m a Y kid. I grew up in Mt. Vernon and everybody went to the YMCA. That’s where I learned how to swim, play basketball, gymnastics, all that stuff. So it is in my blood! A teacher who used to work here, Offut Porter, taught me how to swim. He was my swim coach for the Mt. Vernon YMCA swim team. I’ve known him for twenty something years. So when I applied and I saw him here, I was shocked.

I’ve done lifeguarding, swim instruction and occasionally deck supervisor.

My favorite role will always be teaching swimming lessons. I believe that every person, not just kids, but also adults, should learn how to swim. It’s a life skill, it’s a safety skill and I feel that everyone should have that opportunity. I like being able to make that impact on that person’s life.

Working here has been amazing. I’ve made so many new friends and even found mentorship amongst my co-workers and supervisors. I’ve been building solid relationships. I hope to one day get the opportunity to become a supervisor at the Rye Y. I have about 15 years experience in aquatics and I’ve been here about 4 years. So maybe by year 5 or 6 an opportunity will pop up. Fingers crossed!