
Sadie crushing her workout, radiating strength and focus at the YMCA!

Three generations of smiles: Sadie, Mom, and Grandma sharing a special moment at the Y.
For over 10 years, the Y has been a second home for Sadie Ross—a place where she grew up, discovered her strength, and found a supportive community. From reading in the kids’ room to family swims, to finding her confidence in the weight room at 17, the Y has shaped her journey in ways she never expected.
At first, lifting was just a way to stay active after high school sports, wanting to be stronger and more muscular “but coming to the Y and seeing women lifting weights, looking strong and no one judging them for it, but instead, supporting them for it, I became confident in my goals.”
Encouragement from fellow members kept her coming back, pushing her to sign up for her first bench press competition. What once felt intimidating became empowering, and the Y became a place where she truly belonged.
Now, she’s not the only one who finds strength at the Y—three generations of her family come together here. Her grandparents stay active with water exercise, her parents build their health in workout classes, and Sadie continues to challenge herself in the weight room.
“I love getting to run into my grandma and my mom in the locker room while we’re all getting ready for our days. Whenever I go away for an extended period of time, the Y is one of my first stops when I’m back home and I love knowing I’m going to see so many familiar faces.”
Sara Hannon, Franklin County’s YMCA, Director of Communications, Marketing, & Social Media