Nate Jones, a New Tampa Y lifeguard, earned a competitive athletic college scholarship from the Positive Coaching Alliance - Tampa Bay Chapter.
Nate Jones is more than just a competitive swimmer. “Nate is a fantastic teammate, always cheering for his teammates regardless of age. He is a great role model for our younger swimmers. Besides his actions out of the water, his dedication to the sport and work ethic have driven his successes in the water,” says New Tampa YMCA Stingrays Head Coach Matt Suits.
Out of millions of candidates, Nate is one of the winners of a competitive athletic college scholarship from the Positive Coaching Alliance - Tampa Bay Chapter. PCA awards scholarships to high school athletes with outstanding skills and leadership qualities. He will receive $2,000 to use toward college expenses.
In addition to serving as a volunteer and mentor while on the swim team, Nate is also a lifeguard at the New Tampa Y. “As a coaching staff, we have no greater success story. His dedication, hard work and positive attitude defines the culture of our team,” says New Tampa Y Aquatic Administrator Alexis Mendenhall.
Nate calls the New Tampa Y his, “home away from home for over decade. Between swimming, volunteering, and earning my first job as a lifeguard, my time here has taught me several important lessons about living life in the most respectful manner possible,” Nate writes. “My time here has shown me that every display of kindness can make a difference in someone’s life, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem in the big picture.”
Nate has been a loyal swim team member since he was eight years old. “When I first began coaching Nate two years ago, he was in the back of the lanes, struggling to make the intervals. Now he is leading the lane on more challenging intervals,” says Matt. “Nate will be sorely missed next year while he is off at college.
Your Y family is proud of you, Nate and wish you well as you continue your journey in school and in swimming!