Sean Moore first discovered the YMCA around age 6, when he joined Little Dribblers — a program that helps young athletes build foundational basketball skills.
He fondly remembers the colorful Y t-shirts and occasionally playing alongside classmates.
"So, when I hear the Y, I always have a very positive sentiment because it reminds me of my childhood and those first experiences competing in sports — in this case, on the hardwood."
Sean's connection to the Y didn't end there. He worked for the Y, as a basketball referee and scorekeeper.
"I was even a referee for those same YMCA youth basketball games," Sean said, referring to his experience with Little Dribblers.
He recalled clocking in at 6 a.m. then keeping score for games that tipped off at 7:30 a.m. and ended in the mid to late afternoon.
"I became a really good basketball player by being around it so much," Sean says. "At least I tell myself that!"
After his senior year of high school, he also served as a camp counselor.
A three-sport athlete — football, basketball, and baseball — Sean had Division III opportunities to play college basketball, but he decided to focus on his academics, attending Western Illinois University, where he earned a Marketing degree. He later completed a Master’s in Brand Communication from the University of Illinois’ business school.
Check out highlights of Sean's interview:
On his inspiration to join the Y's board: "I'm passionate about youth development, and I feel like the YMCA has some natural instincts to give back to their community. And it wasn't foreign to me because I experienced it, from being a recipient of the offerings to getting to be an employee."
On the YMCA of the North's potential: “Having lived elsewhere, I’ve found Minneapolis to have a uniquely strong sense of community. I say that with full respect for other places, but there’s a genuine commitment here to giving back and supporting shared values. As a father and a sports executive, my time is limited, yet I want any available bandwidth to support organizations like the YMCA — not only to help them navigate changing consumer expectations, fitness trends, and growing mental-health needs, but to ensure they truly thrive. I’m eager to contribute strategic thinking and explore platforms that can help accelerate the Y’s evolution.”
On Y's focus on well-being for all: ““I often relate this to baseball, since I talk with CMOs and business leaders about how the Minnesota Twins can connect them with consumers and advance their objectives. One of baseball’s greatest strengths is its universal appeal. No matter your background — or whether you played T-ball, baseball, or softball — nearly everyone has an early memory tied to the game. Many recall Cracker Jacks and peanuts with a grandparent because baseball is approachable and inclusive. It’s for young families, social young adults, and older fans who still love to keep score.
"The YMCA shares that same universality and core values. ‘Well-being for all’ might mean introducing a child to sports, providing after-school care to those who need a safe place, or helping older adults stay active and healthy. Like baseball, the Y is built for people from every walk of life.”
On what moves him right now: "What motivates me most is education and developing young people — including my own — within the community. We have a moral responsibility to recognize that few young athletes will become professionals, but the traits they build through youth sports can profoundly shape their lives. I look for people who are curious, competitive, and coachable. Curiosity means asking questions — there are no bad ones — and constantly taking in new information. On a personal level, movement is essential for managing stress. I need a run, a Peloton ride, or some time with weights in my hands to stay grounded.”