Make a Splash This Summer: Find Your Haven with the Treehaven Tarpons

Every summer, Treehaven Swimming Club becomes more than just a place to lounge in the sun, basking in the peaceful quiet of a tucked-away oasis and the distant calls of songbirds. It’s where generations of kids have grown up, where friendships form, and where some of the very best summer memories are made.

At the center of many of those friendships is the Treehaven Tarpons swim team. The goal is simple: make sure every kid feels included, has fun, and leaves the summer with memories they will never forget.

A Team for Everyone

The Treehaven Tarpons are a recreational swim team for kids ages 5 to 17, open to swimmers of all skill levels. Whether they’re just learning to swim or already breaking lap records, every child has a place on the team. The program focuses on skill development, teamwork, and building confidence rather than high-pressure competition. Swimmers are encouraged to improve at their own pace while gaining the experience of being part of a supportive team.

“We want every swimmer, no matter their age or ability, to feel like they belong in our Treehaven family,” said Coach Mia Blakeslee. “If they leave practice smiling and excited to come back, then we know we’re succeeding!”

Along with Coach Aleena Gray, known for her positivity and enthusiasm—and her “spooky” stories of Oscar—these two former Tarpons lead practices Monday through Friday throughout June and July. Practices are not mandatory, and coaches understand that families have busy schedules, especially during the workweek. Whether a swimmer attends every day or just a few times each week, they’re always welcomed and encouraged. The schedule provides structure while still allowing plenty of time to enjoy summer break.

Fridays are always a favorite. Known as “Fun Fridays,” each practice includes games, relays, and team activities designed to make practice feel more like play while still keeping everyone active and learning.

Meets and Recognition

In addition to practice, the Tarpons compete in five swim meets against local swim clubs on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in July. These meets are designed to be supportive and community-focused, giving swimmers the opportunity to challenge themselves while being cheered on by teammates and family. Swimmers are recognized at meets with ribbons, celebrating both effort and improvement. At the end of the season, awards and team gifts are given so that every swimmer feels included and appreciated.

Unlike high-intensity club programs, the Tarpons are built to be fun and encouraging while keeping kids active and engaged. Kids are never expected to be perfect or the fastest in the pool. Instead, they are supported as they learn, improve, and grow in confidence.

More Than Just Swimming

For many families, Treehaven becomes one of the most meaningful parts of the summer.

Over the course of the season, swimmers grow more confident in the water and develop important safety skills. They also build confidence in themselves as they try new things, see their progress over time, and are surrounded by a supportive, encouraging team.

Mornings spent together at practice and cheering each other on at meets help create strong friendships that often continue beyond the season and beyond school districts. The program includes swimmers from Hopewell, Aliquippa, Center Township, Beaver, and more.

“Treehaven has been part of our summer for years,” one parent shared. “My kids look forward to the swim team every season. It gives them structure, friends, and confidence. It really feels like a second home.”

One swimmer added, “I like swim team because I get to hang out with my friends and cheer them on during meets. Practice is always so much fun, and I love when the coaches swim with us.”

The swim team is just one part of what Treehaven offers. Members also have access to swim lessons, swim camps, and community events throughout the summer, in addition to general pool access. Many families spend entire days at the pool, hanging out with friends, grilling dinner, and making summer feel a little longer. For decades, generations of families have spent their summers here—learning to swim, making friends, and eventually bringing their own children back to the same pool. It is not unusual to hear parents say they once swam in the same lanes their kids are now racing in.

Treehaven continues to be more than just a pool; it is a place where community traditions are built and passed down. “I have been a member of the Treehaven Swim Team for 16 years—it’s been such an important part of my life,” Coach Aleena Gray said. “I cannot imagine not being involved with the team in some way. Even though my swimming days are over, I love being able to coach and give the kids the same experience I had growing up.”

Treehaven Swimming Club has been part of the community since 1959 and continues to improve and invest in its future. Recent upgrades include a new heater, filter, and pump system, helping improve water quality and overall operations. Treehaven has also transitioned to a charitable organization, allowing the club to focus fully on providing a safe, affordable, and welcoming space for the community while opening the door for future improvements through grants and donations. These changes help ensure that Treehaven will continue to serve families for many years to come.

How to Join the Treehaven Tarpons

To join the Tarpons Swim Team, families must first become members of Treehaven Swim Club.

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