Saplings
"He who plants a tree plants a hope." - Lucy Larcom
Saplings (formerly Mini Stars) is a developmental program designed for swimmers (typically ages 6 and under) who are not yet ready for the full swim team practice schedule. While they practice less frequently, Saplings are an equally important part of the Vienna Woods swim family and contribute to the team spirit just as much as our oldest swimmers.
Practice Schedule
Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Time: 8:15–9:00 a.m.
Location: The shallow area outside the lap lanes
Saplings practice in small groups led by our junior coaches (ages 14+), all of whom also swim for Vienna Woods. On Fridays, swimmers enjoy a fun craft or game after practice, coordinated by coaches and parent volunteers.
Eligibility
There is no strict age requirement, though most Saplings are between ages 5 and 6. Early in the season, coaches will observe swimmers during the first week of practice to ensure they can safely participate in a group setting.
- If a swimmer would benefit more from individual lessons, coaches may recommend swim lessons instead.
- If a swimmer is more advanced, they may be invited to join the regular 8 & Under practice group.
- Our goal is to accommodate all swimmers who want to be part of the team while prioritizing safety and positive learning experiences.
Swim Meets
A core goal of the Saplings program is to help each swimmer build the skills and confidence needed to participate in Monday Developmental (B) Meets.
We understand that comfort levels vary so we will try our best to accommodate the various needs of swimmers to have them successfully participate in at least one meet.
- Coaches offer additional support during B Meets, including being in the water with swimmers when appropriate.
- Even enthusiastic swimmers may be asked to wait to compete until coaches feel confident in their ability to safely get across the pool.
- Open communication with coaches is the best way to ensure swimmers are ready and set up for a positive meet experience.
- The end of the swim season goal is to have those ready for a swim meet to have a stroke in a Monday B Meet.
