Nov. 4--CLINTON -- The family and fitness director of the Clinton YMCA has been named the agency's top physical director in Illinois for 2009 in recognition for excellence in health, fitness and wellness programs.

Gretchen Isaac recently received the Joseph Roknich Award.

"It's a tremendous honor for Gretchen and well-deserved," said Clinton YMCA board member Joe Alexander. "She is sincere, dedicated and a great leader for the YMCA and the staff at Clinton."

Isaac was nominated by Clinton YMCA Executive Director Jann Martin.

"We are always receiving positive feedback about Gretchen because she is innovative and has been very instrumental in the success of our programs," Martin said.

Isaac has been the family and fitness director since 2004, but is familiar with the facility. Her mother, Sandra, was a longtime YMCA swim coach in Clinton.

"She pretty much grew up in here," Martin said. "That's one reason why she cares so much about the people."

Martin nominated Isaac for the statewide award, believing she had a realistic chance to win.

"I was very honored just to be nominated and I'm proud of the work that we all do at the Clinton YMCA," Isaac said. "The support we get from the community makes it possible to provide the services we are able to provide and, really, it's the community that allows us to be successful."

Among her responsibilities is coordinating the activities of the Clinton YMCA swim team.

"She's a great swim team coach and it is really amazing to watch kids start out with their little backpacks and fins on and then watch them mature into great swimmers," Alexander said. "Gretchen is responsible for that. She works so hard with them, but she cares so much and that's why she deserves this award."

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