GENERATIONS OF IMPACT
Christy and Stu Sprinkle’s long-standing connection to the Y has evolved beautifully over the years, reflecting their dedication to staying active and socially engaged. From their early days in the adult volleyball league, where they met and began dating, to their more recent love for Pickleball, the Y has been central to their lives. Christy’s journey started with volleyball, later expanding to classes and triathlons, while Stu’s involvement stretches even further back to the time when the Merrimack branch wasn’t yet a Y, where he participated in racquetball and walleyball, and his daughter was on the swim team.
Pickleball, introduced to them by a friend in 2016, became their go-to activity after they had to move on from some of their earlier sports. What started as a once-weekly game at the Merrimack branch blossomed into something bigger, with the couple also playing outdoors with a Nashua group. Now, the Westwood Park branch, where they play regularly, has become a hub for Pickleball, hosting games almost daily. For Stu, it’s not just about playing; he’s taken on a role in preparing the courts and teaching skills, making sure the game continues to grow within the community. Christy captured the significance of this shift perfectly: “It’s more than just a sport, it’s definitely a lifestyle.” Both agree that the Y has played a pivotal role in insuring that the sport may be played all year round, a benefit for those involved in the active and social aspects of the activity.
The Y’s impact on the Sprinkle family doesn’t stop with Christy and Stu. Their adult children had their own positive experiences, and now their grandson George, age 11, carries on the tradition. George has been attending Camp Sargent since first grade, and Christy fondly recalls his excitement when he came home one day saying, “I didn’t do electronics all day long!” The physical activity at camp has clearly made an impression on him, helping him sleep better and appreciate the importance of staying active.
Stu and Christy are proud of the multi-generational impact of the Y on their family and encourage activity as a way of life. For them, the Y is much more than just a gym—it’s a community that fosters health, social connections, and a sense of belonging.
Join us in supporting the Y’s mission of fostering lifelong connections, health, and community. Stories like the Sprinkle family’s show the lasting impact of the Y on individuals and families across generations. With your help, we can continue providing opportunities for families to stay active, build friendships, and create lasting memories. Donate today and be a part of making these connections possible for future generations!