The River Place Rapids swim team earned a 4th place trophy at the league’s All Star Invitational on June 20. 

Fourty-seven Rapids swimmers participated in the event and five swimmers won individual trophies: Lily Griego, Genevieve Gaertner, Gretchen Steber, Alexander Paulson, and Lilah Schumann.

The 2022 Rapids’ roster included 121 swimmers, ages 5 to 14. The primary goal was to make sure each swimmer had fun while improving his or her stroke techniques and speed. The team was fearlessly led by Jonny Songer, head coach. 

Assistant coaches were Julia Roberto and Sarah Devaney. They spent countless hours coaching the kids through a challenging but exciting season. The swim team practiced five days a week for seven weeks, trained hard and enjoyed fun practices and drills.

The Rapids, sponsored by River Place Country Club, swim in the Austin Hills Swim League. The team competed in seven in-person meets plus the invitational meet at the end of the season. The season ran from late April to the end of June.

Highlights of this year’s season included the Rapids Intramural meet, Rapids Fun Day of games and treats, and of course, the popsicles at the swim meets.

The regular season ended with a medal meet where swimmers win medals instead of ribbons, and a dance party and awards ceremony. The Annual Dunnovan Healy Love and Courage Award was presented to swimmer Corrine Gaertner this year. The award honors Rapids swimmer Dunnovan Healy, who passed awayafter battling cancer. The award recognizes one swimmer who demonstrates love for teammates and courage in the sport.

Swim team events are great for meeting neighbors and forming lasting friendships for both kids and parents. The 2023 season is already taking shape. For more information on how to get involved, go to www.riverplace.swimtopia.com.