Local Team Makes a Splash in Regional Magazine
By Trina Runner on August 23, 2014
The summer edition of Corridor Magazine featured some familiar faces. As it turns out, the Masters Swim Team at the YMCA is dominated by Bridgeport residents and they have proven to be a “force” to be reckoned with. The “force” refers both to the team wearing Darth Vader shirts and to the fact that they just finished on top for their division.
Made up of both men and women, the team ranges in age from 26 to 86. Phyl Charnes, the team’s founder, is 86 and swims nearly everyday. She also teaches swim classes for children, arthritis sufferers and lifeguards at the YMCA. Charnes credits swimming for allowing her to live an active lifestyle that includes teaching, acting and being part of this winning team. “I don’t think I will ever stop swimming!” says Charnes.
Former BHS Physical Education teacher Gladys Williams is another member of the team. “It’s unlike any sporting event I have ever watched or participated in,” says Williams. “We are like one big family, with everyone encouraging each other and cheering each other regardless of what team is swimming.” Williams started swimming at 10 years old and continues due to the health benefits and the competition. “Swimming is easy on the joints and great for cardiorespiratory endurance,” she says. She is fiercely competitive and competes not only against other teams, but her own times as well.
Bridgeport’s showing on the team includes Gary Abbate, Jack Merinar, Lynn Nye, Ski Snell, Patrick Snell, Lee Gustafson, Andrew Bartlett, Theresa Drake and Jeff Owens. Team member Brian Lavake used to be a local resident and, of course, Williams has been a part of the Bridgeport community for many years as she taught at BHS. The team begins their 2014-15 season in September and will compete against teams from West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York. The will compete in about two meets each month from September to March, including the YMCA Nationals and the Senior Olympics.
The Corridor Magazine feature demonstrates how well the group works as a team and the championship spirit they possess. In addition to the Bridgeport members, Phyl Charnes, Stacy Berry, and Michael Phillips round out the team. “The current team is the most exciting ever because of the broad range of ages and talent, and everyone cheering for the other’s success from the beginners to the experienced. We’re going to be a hard team to beat for years to come,” said Lee Gustafson.
