After four decades of dedicated leadership, Jay Morissette, the long-time head coach of the Long Reach Swim Club (LRSC) at the Bath Area Family YMCA, has announced his retirement. Morissette, a fixture in Maine’s swimming community and one of the state’s most accomplished coaches, will be stepping down after an extraordinary 40-year career at the end of the summer swim season.
“Forty years has flown by so quickly, but I remember each season like it was the last,” said Morissette. “I have been so fortunate to have been able to work with some amazing people and some amazing kids. They have helped me to stay young at heart and relish the joy that life can bring. I will miss that the most.”
Morissette’s impact on the sport is unparalleled. As Maine’s only American Swim Coaches Association Level 5 certified coach, he has guided LRSC to an impressive 37 YMCA state championships, including 35 consecutive titles. Under his leadership, LRSC has also claimed 16 of the last 21 U.S. League winter state championship team titles. More than 200 of his swimmers have ranked in the Top 16 nationally within YMCA competition, with 16 becoming National Champions and two setting National Records.
“Jay Morissette’s legacy at the Bath Y and in the greater swimming community is truly remarkable,” said Rob Gray, CEO of the Bath Area Family YMCA. “His passion for coaching and his unwavering dedication to our athletes have shaped generations of swimmers, instilling in them the values of hard work, teamwork, and perseverance. His contributions will be felt for years to come.”
In addition to his achievements with LRSC, Morissette was named YMCA Coach of the Year in 2005 and U.S. Coach of the Year in both 2007 and 2009. He currently serves on the Maine Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame Committee, helping to honor and recognize outstanding individuals in the sport. As an athlete, Morissette swam collegiately at the University of Maine at Orono under Coach Allan Switzer, holding two school records in the 50- and 100-yard freestyle for three decades. Before college, he trained at the Kennebec Valley YMCA in Augusta under Coach Ann Palozzi, setting three team records that stood for 35 years.
The Bath Area Family YMCA has officially opened the position and will begin a nationwide search for Morissette’s successor. The organization is committed to finding a coach who will continue the strong tradition of excellence that Morissette has built over his distinguished career.
To honor Coach Morissette’s incredible contributions, the YMCA will be hosting a retirement celebration. Details will be announced in the coming weeks.