It’s hard to talk about swimming in the Kent community without mentioning Mark Prothero. Mark spent his early years as a standout club and collegiate swimmer. He coached for many years and devoted himself to teaching his own kids how to swim.

Mark took his love of swimming and coaching to the community. He envisioned a new aquatics facility in Kent and volunteered his time to help plan and design what would become the Kent Y.  

Mark later went on to help found the Friends of the Kent Y, up until his passing in 2014.  

Five years after his passing, the Kent Y opened. The new facility includes two pools – a six-lane, 25-meter-long pool and a family and play pool. 

“Swimming provided a cornerstone and continuous theme in Mark’s life. He touched countless lives in truly meaningful ways. Mark’s entire life was testimony of how swimming is a lifetime sport,” said Sam Kendricks, well-known swim announcer. 

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is proud to recognize Mark’s many contributions to the Kent swimming community. A plaque in his memory will be placed on the pool deck of the Kent Y to honor his vision and leadership. Give today to support of Mark’s vision and our new Kent Y aquatic center. 

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