Arlington Forest Club Tigers

Developmental Swim Program

The Mini Tigers program was launched in 2009 and supports young swimmers as they transition to the full team. Minis are coached by AFC Assistant coaches with support from tiger swimmers age 13-18.

Mini Tigers Program Criteria:

The Mini Tigers program is designed for swimmers showing readiness for the swim team. To join, swimmers must meet the following criteria:

• Freestyle Proficiency: Swim 25 meters of freestyle continuously without assistance.
• Breathing Technique: Demonstrate some side breathing during freestyle.
• Backstroke Ability: Swim on their back.
• Interest in Swim Team: Show a desire to progress to the full swim team.
• Practice Readiness: Be transitioning towards tolerating longer, structured swim practices.

Mini Tiger Program Evaluation

All children interested in joining the Mini Tiger program must be evaluated by a coach.

• Evaluation Dates: June 1-June 4, 2026
• Sign-Up: Pending
• Parent Presence: A parent or guardian must be present during the evaluation.
• Evaluation Procedure:
  • Children will gather in "the tank" by the life guard table.
  • The group will meet the coaches and warm up with some basic skills in the tank.
  • Then, each swimmer will demonstrate their swimming abilities in the lap lane near the diving boards.
    • Each child will swim individually.
    • First, they will swim 25 meters of freestyle.
    • After a short break, they will swim 25 meters of backstroke.
• Program Placement: Children who are not yet ready for the Mini Tiger program will be referred to the AFC private lesson program.
• Mini Tiger Practice and Schedule: Practice times and the Mini Tiger schedule can be found.

Mini Tiger Meet Participation

• Mini Tiger swimmers will have the opportunity to participate in individual 25-meter freestyle and backstroke events at some B meets.

Team Involvement

• Mini Tiger members are encouraged to participate in all team social activities, including the Tiger Madness Celebration.

Volunteer Requirement

• Families with only Mini Tiger swimmers are required to fulfill three (3) volunteer points.