At Holland Aquatic Center, we know HAC is so much more than a place to swim or work out—it’s a place where people rebuild, reconnect, and rediscover what they’re capable of. We’re excited to introduce a new series of Community Impact Stories featuring real HAC members and the meaningful role this place plays in their lives.
Our first three stories are available for viewing on our YouTube channel. In this story, you’ll meet Dorothy, whose two daughters swim on the Michigan Lakeshore Aquatics competitive swim team at HAC.
When Dorothy Germain’s daughters, Charlotte and Gabriella (“Gabba”), joined Michigan Lakeshore Aquatics in 2024, they were looking for the right next step in their competitive swimming journey. What they found at HAC was something much bigger. “It only took one tryout with the team and meeting with the coaching staff to know that this was the start of something special for our family,” said Dorothy.
A culture you can feel, even from the stands
Before officially joining MLA, the Germain family had spent years around the competitive swim scene. At event after event, they noticed there was something different about MLA.
“We had the pleasure of watching the MLA swimmers interact with each other and their coaches at swim meets for years,” Dorothy said. “Even from a distance, the positive and supportive atmosphere was evident in the team culture.” That sense of connection and encouragement ultimately made their decision to join MLA an easy one.
They have also found a strong sense of belonging within the MLA community. “As a family, we’ve gained more than just a team. We’ve gained a village,” she said. “It’s a place that celebrates effort, encourages growth, builds relationships, and most importantly strengthens character.”
Building strong swimmers and even stronger people
Since joining the team, Dorothy has seen firsthand the impact MLA has had on Charlotte and Gabba—not just in the pool, but in who they are becoming as young adults.
“From the very beginning, the coaches and team welcomed our daughters with genuine encouragement and belief in their potential,” she said. “They’ve not only helped them become stronger swimmers, but more importantly, they’ve shown them what hard work, consistency, and dedication truly feel like.”
The lessons delivered by MLA encompass much more than technique and race times. Coaches emphasize patience, resilience, and the importance of showing up every day ready to give your best effort.
“What stands out most is that the coaches care deeply about who the swimmers are becoming, not just what they are achieving in the water,” said Dorothy. “They focus on positive mindset, accountability, and supporting teammates.” Because of that, she said, her daughters are growing into “confident, disciplined, and respectful young people.”
“[The coaches] have not only helped [Charlotte and Gabba] become stronger swimmers, but more importantly, they’ve shown them what hard work, consistency, and dedication truly feel like.”
Dorothy Germain
Michigan LAkeshore Aquatics Parent
Guidance that goes beyond the pool deck
One of the most meaningful aspects of the MLA experience for Dorothy and her family has been the mentorship provided by the coaching staff, led by Aquatics Program Director Ian Townsend. When listing Ian’s positive contributions to the program, Dorothy highlighted his well-known “College Talk” sessions, where young swimmers learn about competing at the next level and navigating the college recruiting process.
“He shares valuable insight about swimming at the next level and walks them through how to thoughtfully prepare,” she said. “But what makes it special is the way he connects with the swimmers. His style is relatable and encouraging.”
For the Germains, it’s clear that MLA is committed to each swimmer’s full journey, helping them find the right path not just athletically and academically, but personally as well.
A place where everyone belongs
For Dorothy, HAC’s impact extends far beyond just Charlotte, Gabba, and their teammates.
“HAC serves as a gathering place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together. It’s a safe, welcoming environment where children learn life skills, athletes train and compete, families connect, and adults prioritize their health.”
She believes the value HAC brings to Holland and West Michigan is immeasurable: “It goes far beyond the water or just another gym. It promotes lifelong fitness, teamwork, and personal growth. It strengthens community connections and serves as a cornerstone of health, youth development, and unity for the entire region.”