By Matt Browning
For the past three years, R.J. Michel has been coaching at the YMCA and he did it to be an influence on kids.
“Expressing interest in coaching a group of kids and having a passion for educating them, in addition to helping them gain life-lasting lessons is the first step,” Michel said. “The amazing staff and coordinators at the Andover YMCA Branch has made it an amazing experience and environment to be a part of.”
Being able to balance his 9-5 job with coaching can be a challenge for Michel.
“I have been a business owner in the hearing aid industry for over 10 years now, and it definitely can be a challenge to balance work with coaching, especially when there’s travel involved in my work,” Michel said. “However, I love working with the kids so much and have such an immense passion/energy for sports and the invaluable lessons gained from it, that I can make both a priority and allocate my time needed effectively to both.”
Michel has experienced many memories over the past three years, but most importantly having the strong connection with kids is what is the most memorable.
“I’ve always had a strong connection with kids and the ability to gain mutual respect with them quickly and I take a lot of pride in helping them gain invaluable life lessons and skills, in addition to pushing them to be the best version of themselves,” Michel said.
One piece of advice Michel would give a person interested in volunteering would be to go all in and not take it lightly.
“When I decide to take a group of kids under my wing, it’s a commitment that I take very seriously and put a lot of time and work into,” Michel said. “Kids are sponges and it’s essential to be a great role model and example for kids to respect, look up to, and most importantly, ensure they feel loved, supported, and that you believe in them wholeheartedly.”
