Great Bridge-Hickory Family Ymca Summer Camp

We had a very frustrating experience at the indoor pool today due to poor communication and capacity management. The posted sign clearly states a maximum capacity of 50 people, yet the pool was being capped at 30, with families asked to leave after approximately 40 minutes because of a confusing and inconsistently managed waitlist. At no point was this policy clearly explained upon entry, and the rules seemed to change while families were already in the pool. There were three lifeguards on duty, and parents are required to accompany their children in the pool. Despite this, we were told it was “too much to handle,” which was surprising given the small size of the pool and the fact that each family had one or two supervising adults. The lack of clarity and organization created unnecessary stress for members who were following the rules as posted. Additionally, one lifeguard displayed a noticeable and ongoing attitude that negatively affected the overall atmosphere. While this was disappointing, I don’t place the blame on the lifeguards themselves. This situation should have been managed by the front desk or leadership, not left to lifeguards who are already responsible for monitoring swimmer safety. We pay a significant monthly membership fee, and this experience left our family feeling that the facility is not equipped to manage its capacity or communicate policies effectively. Being asked to leave despite following posted rules made the membership feel far less valuable. We will be rethinking our membership after this experience.

Isabella “Bella” at the Great Bridge YMCA was so kind when dealing with my exhausted/moody son. So patient and helped us turn the evening around. She is wonderful with the birthday parties and you all are lucky to have her as an employee!

In my opinion, the Great Bridge YMCA is the best in the area. A membership is undoubtedly expensive, but it does get a little cheaper for big families, low-income earners, etc. They have an outdoor and indoor pool, both with lap lanes and slides. The outside pool has a huge kids' play area as well. The I-Zone is great for childcare, including rock climbing, four square, and a variety of video games. Up front is another play area for kids under 10 that looks really fun. And can't forget the gym, of course. Always a bunch of open cardio machines, but the weights area gets crowded sometimes. Lots of little stuff too: basketball court, coffee and tea machines, nursing area, nice locker rooms, sauna, dance classes. Overall great value if you or your family can take advantage of all the services they offer.

DEAR PARENTS who send their children to playrooms (up to 3 years old), have you seen the condition of the toys? Not a single working one. Everything is very old and not interesting for your children! Please, let's unite and bring at least one working toy! No need to bring broken junk. Just if everyone spends $20-30, your children will happily go there and play with normal toys! And it will be easier for the teachers that the children are busy, because when there are a lot of people, they can't keep up with everyone, and there are simply not enough toys for everyone.

When my family informed the Aquatic Director of a slippery spot by the outdoor pool where multiple kids had fallen she replied very defensively and said the kids parents should supervise them. One minute later a one year old fell and hit her head on the concrete. When we informed her of the situation she responded very coldly. The lifeguards were very kind and wanted to help, but the director's lack of concern and professionalism was very concerning. Made me wonder if it was safe to be at this facilities pool at all. So sad, we love the Y.