The Mt. Lebanon Aqua Club has begun its winter season with new head coach Lauren Cassano leading the program. The club, which celebrated its 70th anniversary last fall, offers learn-to-swim instruction and competitive teams under USA Swimming.
“She brings so much passion and energy to our athletes,” said Stacie Carlson, first vice president of MLAC. “Under her leadership, the club is experiencing exciting growth and renewed energy.”
Cassano has focused on strengthening the club’s developmental pipeline and reorganizing practice groups to create clearer progression between levels. Programs range from beginner instruction to competitive swimming.
“I’d love to see our developmental group grow and grow,” Cassano said. “We want to see the growth and development of our athletes.”
“It’s giving our athletes a roadmap to meet their goals,” Carlson said.
“Everyone wants to be an Olympian at some time,” Cassano said. “But we also just want the athletes to enjoy themselves.”
Board President Michael Fronczek said MLAC offers six levels of American Red Cross-certified learn-to-swim courses for children ages 6 months to 14 years, as well as diving instruction and lifeguard certification. Many programs have wait lists. The club also offers a master’s program for adults ages 18 to 70.
Fronczek said the club is focused on meeting the swimming needs of everyone in the community. To that end, MLAC offers subsidized scholarships to help ensure access for local families. They’ve become the largest provider of learn-to-swim programming for Mt. Lebanon.
Cassano joined MLAC in 2023 as assistant head coach and worked under former head coach Tom Donati before his retirement.
“It’s quite the honor to step into these shoes,” she said.
Previously, Cassano served as associate head coach for West Virginia University’s swimming and diving team. A Peters Township native, she was a four-year letter winner at Grove City College, earning All-American honors and conference titles in the 100- and 200-yard backstroke and 200 individual medley.
In October, MLAC earned bronze-level recognition in USA Swimming’s National Club Excellence Program, one of four clubs in its region to receive the distinction. The club also is SafeSport certified through the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
“Everything we do is governed by USA swimming,” Fronczek said.
“We have opportunities for everyone,” Cassano said. “It’s a safe place and a fun place.”
