By Allison Peck
Listen to the full interview with Melissa Ewert on our Kubota Podcast
The Ogallala Goodall YMCA is experiencing unprecedented growth as it heads into the spring season, with new facility upgrades and several major program registrations opening in April.
Branch Executive Director Melissa Ewert says the increase in daily traffic has been noticeable.
“I feel like we have never been this busy ever,” Ewert said. “It’s just crazy to see how many people are in there and it is really exciting for my staff to see that their job is important and how much we’ve grown over the last year.”
Pickleball courts are now open and already drawing participants. Reserved times are available on Mondays and Wednesdays in both the morning and afternoon, and additional court times can be scheduled as availability allows. While the YMCA awaits paddle shipments, players are encouraged to bring their own equipment if possible.
The facility has also expanded its fitness offerings with the addition of a 42-foot strip of turf and a push-pull sled equipped for weighted training. The upgrade provides members with expanded functional strength-training opportunities.
“It’s a great way to work out your legs, so we’re pretty excited about that,” Ewert said.
April will be a key month for registration. The YMCA plans to host a triathlon May 2, weather permitting. Registration for the event runs April 1 through April 10 to allow organizers to plan accordingly.
The after-school YMCA Kids Corner program will accept registrations April 13 through April 16. The licensed program serves preschool through fifth-grade students and must meet state staffing ratios, making early signups essential.
Swimming lesson registration will take place April 20 through April 23. Ewert encouraged families with younger swimmers to act quickly.
“The TOTS and preschool class, if you’re not there on the first day, you’re probably not getting in,” she said, noting toddler classes are limited to 10 participants for safety.
SilverSneakers programming continues to expand as well, including chair yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and a Strength 101 class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:45 a.m. Though designed with older adults in mind, the classes are open to all.
“Strength for our community that’s 50 and older is so important. It helps you be able to stay on your own,” Ewert said. “Strength and our health is so important as we get older.”
She acknowledged that gyms can feel intimidating for newcomers but emphasized the welcoming atmosphere.
“I know it can be very intimidating just to walk into the gym, but I promise we’re all very nice, and we are more than willing to help.”
For younger families, the YMCA’s Rugrats program meets Wednesdays at 10 a.m. for children ages two to five. The 30- to 45-minute session includes structured play, crafts and snacks while parents remain in the building.
“We entertain them for you,” Ewert said.
Most classes are included with membership, and non-members may participate for a one-dollar daily fee.
With new equipment installed and a full slate of programming on the horizon, YMCA officials expect the strong participation trend to continue throughout the spring.