Nautical Nadiya

Nadiya, age 11, has been a JCC member since before she can remember. Her family came to the U.S. in 1996 from Donetsk, Ukraine, and received assistance from the JCC as Jewish immigrants. At the JCC, the family has enjoyed a place of belonging and are welcomed by all, something they weren’t used to feeling in the former Soviet Union where they weren’t allowed to practice their religion. To this day, Nadiya’s favorite thing about the JCC is the staff, cementing the center as a home away from home.

Since joining the JCC swim team three years ago, Nadiya’s skills have only grown. Though it’s hard work, she’s loved her coaches and appreciates having milestones to strive toward; accomplishments like her recent 50-meter butterfly swim meet win are made all the sweeter by the dedication she’s put in. Long-term, her goal is to attend college, ideally on a swimming scholarship, so in the meantime she’s keeping her focus on the future.

Children ages 5-15 who can swim at least 25 yards unassisted with their face in the water can join Nadiya on swim team! The JCC’s Starfish Swim Team welcomes swimmers at all levels. Swimmers work on improving strokes and endurance while having fun! Practices are Tuesdays and/or Thursdays, 4:15-5 pm year-round (participation is paid through a monthly draft), so join at any time. Contact JCC Director of Aquatics Lexi Manges to try one practice free!