Press release courtesy of Tony Sharillo

The Valley-Shore YMCA has announced that it’s organizing a new, non-competitive fitness program for children aged 11 to 18. The program is called ‘Grow Fit’ and it was launched on March 8 thanks to a generous donation from the Brady Family Foundation.

Grow Fit is a fitness training program that features groups of five people working together. The objective is to keep teens active after school, provide healthy social interaction, and aid in battling obesity and related health issues. The program takes place in the Health and Wellness Center at the Valley-Shore YMCA on 201 Spencer Plain Road in Westbrook every Monday through Friday with one session starting at 3 p.m. and another beginning at 4 p.m. Students will use the weight room, cardio room, and functional training room with an aim to help them experience improved endurance, strength, coordination, energy, and self-esteem. Outdoor activities will also be incorporated. The fee for unlimited sessions per week is $85 a month for YMCA members and $170 per month for non-members.

The Grow Fit program is led by David Fernandes, who was a member of the USA national champion rugby team in 2015, played in the Premier Soccer League, and has a degree in physical education and kinesiology. Fernandes is also the camp directors for the Westbrook Park & Rec summer camp program.

“David has the perfect set of experiences to lead Grow Fit,” said Ellen Nichele, wellness coordinator for the Valley-Shore YMCA. “He brings a wealth of athletic, health, and wellness knowledge, while being able to relate and make connections with children. He will ensure Grow Fit is fun and a program that kids will want to be a part of.”

For more info on Grow Fit, call Ellen Nichele at 860-399-9622, Ext. 121 or email enichele@vsymca.org.