Abstract: A vertically extending structure comprises a component of playground equipment which is provided with one or more bars having free ends provided with internal threads and configured to penetrate wood, and one or more wooden support members for supporting the component. Each support member has at least one transverse opening extending therethrough. This transverse opening is axially aligned with and receives the free end of the bar, and includes three portions. One portion is inwardly-facing and is of a size and shape to matingly receive and envelop in a supporting fashion one of the free ends; a central portion has a transverse dimension less than that of the inwardly-facing portion; and a third portion is outwardly facing and has a greater transverse diameter than the central portion. The central portion receives the body a bolt, while the outwardly-facing portion receives the head of the bolt.