History of the Flushing Flyers
The Flushing YMCA Flyers, a competitive swim team, have a history rooted in the Flushing YMCA, which was established in 1926, and have grown from a small group of swimmers to a team of over 100, known for their success and Olympic training.
Under Coach Richard Finkelstein, the Flushing YMCA Flyers, won 30 straight YMCA State Championship titles between 1986 and 2016.
YMCA of Greater New York. Flushing Branch.. Events. Swimming pool dedication, 1967. (Box 34, Folder 9). 1967-10-20. University of Minnesota Libraries, Kautz Family YMCA Archives., umedia.lib.umn.edu/item/p16022coll672:200 Accessed 07 Apr 2025.
Meet the Coaches
Richard Finkelstein (HEAD COACH) As their head coach since his second season in 1959, the Flushing Flyers has grown exponentially and is now competitive at all levels, in USS and YMCA meets.
Julissa Sotelo (AQUATICS COORDINATOR/COACH) Coach Julissa has been a dedicated member of the YMCA since 2002 serving as both - Aquatics Coordinator and as the coach of the Silver team.
Drew Modrov (COACH) Coach Drew has had a successful collegiate and post-collegiate career in sprint freestyle swimming; he swam for Auburn and is now a coach for, and U.S. Masters swimmer.
