YBCC Phoenix Breaststroker Nicolas Montesanti Commits to The College of New Jersey

The YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties’ Phoenix Swim Team has announced that 18-year-old Nicolas Montesanti of Marlton has committed to The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) in Ewing for next fall.

Nic first started swimming when he was about 5 years old, at the recommendation of his family doctor who thought swimming would help strengthen his lungs.

Growing up Nic was a multi-sport athlete, participating in baseball, golf, basketball and swimming. He swam for Cherokee High School all four years and accumulated three relay records: the 200 Free, 400 Free and 200 medley. He says he did not know that he really wanted to swim in college until he began to swim for the Y’s Phoenix swim team about a year ago.

“The Y’s Phoenix swim team made me fall back in love with swimming again,” said Nic.

A major reason that Nic wanted to swim for the Y was all the good things he had heard about Coach Chris.

“I like swimming for Coach Chris,” said Nic. “He never puts too much pressure on you, but he has taught me that how much effort you put into practice and training affects how well you will perform in competitions.”

TCNJ was the perfect match for Nic because he could continue swimming while working towards a degree in nursing.

“I really liked TCNJ when I visited, and Coach Brian Bishop is awesome,” said Nic. “Hearing about my friend, who currently swims on the TCNJ team, and his excellent experiences with the program definitely influenced my decision.”

Nic credits the YBCC Phoenix team with helping him become the man and swimmer he is today. “There are so many fast kids in my age group and we all worked hard and pushed each other during practice. I am hoping to take that work ethic to college along with everything Coach Chris taught me about how to carry myself.”

For more information or to register for the Y’s competitive swimming program, contact Chris Brookover at 856.231.9622 x242, chrisb@ymca-bc.org or visit ymca-bc.org.

About the Y

The YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties is a cause-driven, community based, charitable organization that strengthens community by building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults and families. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the community's health and well-being and provides opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Throughout neighborhoods across the two counties and its 70+ sites, the Y makes accessible the support and opportunities that empower more than 37,500 people each year to learn, grow and thrive. Visit ymca-bc.org.