Downtown Member of the Month

MEET BUZZ: MEMBER OF THE MONTH

At 97 years old, Buzz is a shining example of how the YMCA can change lives. From growing up during the Great Depression to coaching several Olympic gold medalists, his story is filled with resilience, passion and an unwavering commitment to wellness.

Buzz faced many personal struggles early in life, born during the Great Depression, lived through World War II and eventually lost his parents and home during high school. Through it all, the YMCA remained a constant source of support. Buzz said, “The Y hired me and even let me stay there overnight when I had nowhere else to go. Those experiences shaped my life and directly led to my career as a swimming coach.”

He would go on to coach at UCLA for 10 years, even coaching several of his swimmers to victory at the Olympics, bringing home gold medals. His career was marked by dedication to his athletes and even today, he continues to find joy in his workouts at the YMCA. “The Y has helped me stay fit and I’m so grateful for it,” he says. Buzz still works out twice a week, proving that any time, age, or place in life is the right time to prioritize your health and wellness.

Now living in Chattanooga, he continues to embody the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community and improving lives. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of community and the impact of the Y. We are proud to celebrate his remarkable legacy and contributions to our community, country and the world of swimming.