Barco-Newton Family YMCA

3 out of 5 stars★★★★★

“This has gone from a place that I enjoy coming to a place that I feel I am annoying the workers when I show up. Sad.”

3 out of 5 stars★★★★★

“I genuinely want to give this facility five stars because it has so much potential and offers a lot for local families. Unfortunately, there are a few recurring issues that make that difficult. The children’s sports programs often feel disorganized and chaotic. Schedules are released extremely late, and there seem to be very few practices focused on teaching the fundamentals before games begin. The programs themselves are valuable and give kids great opportunities to stay active, but better organization and communication would make a significant difference. The gym also has a fantastic variety of equipment, which is one of the reasons we want to enjoy coming here. However, my family has repeatedly felt unfairly singled out by staff members who constantly hover and question whether my sons are old enough to use the equipment. I completely understand and respect the facility’s age requirements. My boys who use the equipment meet those requirements, they are simply small for their ages due to genetics. Staff have repeatedly approached me or my 14 year old son about his age, which embarrasses him and has become increasingly frustrating. A one time age verification would be understandable, but the repeated scrutiny makes us feel unwelcome and singled out. It comes across very power-trippy. One staff member in particular consistently monitors us in a way that feels excessive, unnecessary and almost discriminatory towards my small sons. It has reached the point where I have considered moving our family to the Moody YMCA, despite this location being much more convenient. That said, there are many positives. The youth programs give children wonderful ways to stay active, the fitness classes are amazing, and Troy Sowders (s) is always responsive, helpful, and appreciated. This facility has everything it needs to be exceptional. I sincerely hope these concerns are taken seriously because, with better organization and a more respectful approach from certain staff members, this could easily be a five-star experience for our family who have been members for years.”