Rob Strom

I first started swimming at the Powel Crosley YMCA about 12 years ago. At the time, it was mostly something I did on my own whenever my knees were sore or I needed a break from my usual workouts. Around that same time, I was heavily involved in fundraising for cancer research and created my own personal campaign called “No Excuses.” It was really more of a tongue-in-cheek slogan, but it meant a lot to me because my sister, who passed away from cancer, had always been incredibly supportive and encouraging of my fundraising efforts.

After about a year of swimming almost every day, I decided to join PCY Masters, and I’ve now been part of the team for the last 10 years. Even though I had worked with Powel Crosley YMCA fundraising efforts for over 40 years and knew Mike Leonard, I really didn’t know much about the swim programs. That changed when I attended a fundraising meeting where Lori Anthony shared a testimonial about her experience with Masters swimming. Her story was incredibly moving and inspired me to give it a try. Mike, Meredith, and Stacey were also there and made me feel welcomed and supported right from the start.

What keeps me coming back to the pool are the people. I truly love my teammates and think of them as family. During COVID, Chris Adamson actually signed me up for practice every single day because I didn’t want to deal with it myself, which still makes me laugh and says a lot about the friendships on this team.

One of the things I’m probably most known for is the Ohio River Swim. Jim Witte got me involved in it, and it has sort of become my trademark swim over the years. I also really enjoy open water swimming and even have one unofficial world record.

Masters swimming and the friendships I’ve built through this team have been such a positive part of my life, and I’m grateful every day that I decided to join.