Welcome back to another episode of Kunes Car Convos, where we take a spin with local leaders making a difference in their communities. This time, Evan Ferguson hits the road with Mike Coolidge, longtime Sports Operations Director for the YMCA in Lake Geneva, WI, behind the wheel of a bold and capable 2025 GMC Yukon AT4. While the Yukon’s rugged luxury turns heads, it's Mike’s decades of service that steal the spotlight in this heartwarming conversation about youth sports, community collaboration, and the power of play.
From Coach to Cornerstone: Mike’s 30-Year Journey
Mike Coolidge’s story with the YMCA began in 1996, when a simple invitation to run a basketball program evolved into a nearly 30-year commitment to youth development and sports leadership. Originally part-time, Mike eventually became the full-time Sports Director, also taking on membership operations before returning to focus fully on athletics.
Now, Mike oversees an expansive range of programs for the Lake Geneva YMCA, from T-ball to travel softball, helping build not just athletes—but confident, engaged kids who grow up in a positive and supportive environment.
Summer Sports in Full Swing: Baseball & Softball at Vets Park
The YMCA's summer crown jewel is undoubtedly the baseball and softball program hosted at Veterans Park, a community gem supported by a partnership between the YMCA and the City of Lake Geneva.
Each summer, Mike and his team organize:
- 34 in-house teams, ranging from 4-year-old T-ballers to 10-year-old Major League hopefuls.
- 7 travel teams that compete across Walworth, Kenosha, and neighboring counties.
- Over 450 participants, bringing energy and excitement to the park all season long.
“We just wrapped up the season in the third week of July,” Mike shared. “It’s a huge undertaking, but seeing the kids out there learning and having fun makes it all worth it.”
Chevrolet + Kunes = A Winning Team for Local Kids
This year’s success story wasn’t just written on the field. Thanks to a nationwide Chevrolet initiative, paired with the support of Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Lake Geneva, the YMCA was able to gear up with vital equipment and funding.
As Mike explained, “Chevy and Kunes have been incredible. They sponsor a team every year—this year it was a T-ball team—and provide gear like bats, catcher’s equipment, and hitting nets. Plus, a $500 donation helps us keep growing.”
One of the season’s highlights? A photo-op with the kids piled into Kunes trucks at the field—a moment of joy that captured everything this partnership is about.
Fall Programming & Year-Round Opportunities
As baseballs are packed away, the YMCA transitions into fall with soccer and flag football, both held at Veterans Park through October. Then, it's back indoors for a wide range of activities:
- Basketball, volleyball, and indoor soccer
- Tumbling, climbing club, and a full-featured rock wall
- Swim lessons in the YMCA's aquatic center, focusing on both technique and water safety
Want to host a birthday party, rent gym space, or get your child involved? Mike recommends calling the YMCA directly for rentals and registration details.
Adults Get in the Game Too
The YMCA isn’t just for kids. Mike proudly noted that adults also have access to:
- Men’s basketball leagues
- Softball leagues
- Indoor pickleball, with three courts in use almost daily
- A fully equipped fitness center, with memberships and day passes available
No matter your age, there’s something at the Lake Geneva YMCA to keep you active, social, and thriving.
A Legacy 140 Years in the Making
The YMCA in Lake Geneva recently celebrated 140 years of service. Originally downtown, the building moved to its current location in the 1950s after a fire. Since then, it has grown into a community cornerstone thanks to passionate leaders like Mike, continued community support, and strategic partnerships—like the one with Kunes Auto Group.
As Mike emphasized, “Kunes doesn’t just support the YMCA—they support the kids. That’s what this is all about.”
Final Thoughts from the Front Seat
Before wrapping up, we got to know Mike a little better:
- Favorite baseball player? Milwaukee Brewer legend Paul Molitor.
- Best baseball movie? The Sandlot—a timeless classic.
With role models like Mike at the helm, it’s clear that the Lake Geneva YMCA is in great hands. Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Lake Geneva is proud to partner with local organizations that build better futures, one inning (and one smile) at a time.
