To My YDSC Family - THANK YOU!

To My YDSC Family,

It’s never easy to say goodbye to something so meaningful, but the time has come for me to begin a new chapter.

My last day with the Decatur Family YMCA will be July 21, 2025, at the conclusion of our long course season.

Leading this program and working with your children has truly been the highlight of my life thus far. I’ve seen them break barriers, build life skills, and continually grow into the best version of themselves. I’ve watched hesitant 8 & Unders grow into confident middle/high schoolers, and those same bright-eyed teens become adults filled with purpose, dignity, and the drive to make the world a better place. Having a front-row seat to your children’s growth—in and out of the pool—over the past five years has been nothing short of a dream come true.

I am incredibly proud of everything we’ve built here in Decatur. From a team once on the brink of collapsing during COVID to a respected, competitive force with multiple high-level accomplishments, we’ve created something truly special. As the program turns the page to its next chapter, please know that I will always be cheering for your children and for the continued success of the YDSC Gators—whether from another pool deck or from afar.

On a personal note, whether they knew it or not, your children helped me through two life-altering experiences: the sudden and unexpected death of my father at age 27, and a life-changing car accident at age 29. On days when I wasn’t sure I could keep going, the thought of returning to the pool deck and seeing their faces again was what kept me moving forward. It’s hard to put into words exactly how much that meant to me, but please know I will forever be grateful to them for being my motivation to keep pushing.

To all of you—parents, grandparents, and family members—thank you for your support: of your children, of our program, and of me. Please continue to advocate for this team, so it can keep rising to its fullest potential.

To my fellow coaches—thank you for sharing the pool deck with me. You’ve poured your hearts into this team, especially during the hard times, and that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Coaching often feels like a thankless job, but I hope you know how lucky our swimmers have been to have you in their corner.

I know some of you may have questions, and I hope you’ll understand that this decision was incredibly difficult to make. Your children have become my world, and leaving them creates a giant hole in my heart. That said, I’ve always believed in leading by example—and while it deeply saddens me to step away from this role, I believe it’s even more important to demonstrate resolve: by recognizing my worth, standing firm in my value, and taking a brave step toward a happier future.

Out of respect for the athletes, I kindly ask that you take a moment today or tomorrow to inform your children of my upcoming departure before I share the news directly with them at practice on Thursday. I want to make this transition as thoughtful and gentle as possible, and I appreciate your help in preparing them.

With love and gratitude,
Coach Lauren

Stay in touch:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Cell: (765) 201-5916