The SoCal High School Cycling League will launch a middle school pilot program in spring 2014 in a bid to duplicate the success of the middle school program launched by the Minnesota High School Cycling League this fall.
NICA stands for National Interscholastic Cycling Association, the national body that sanctions SoCal as a member league. NICA high school programs are built on five core principles: Inclusivity, Equality, Strong Body, Strong Mind, and Strong Character. While a cornerstone of the high school programs is racing, racing is not the only thing NICA is working to build through its programs. “After many years of having to turn away middle school riders (grades 6-8) we have decided to build programs which allow middle schoolers an introduction to mountain biking with a heavy emphasis on fun, skills, fitness, and etiquette while still giving a nod to the competitive angle they will see more of in high school,” Gunnell said.
Middle school students will be able to participate in one of three ways during the spring 2014 season. They may form a middle school club under the guidance of a NICA licensed coach, they may join an existing high school club, or they may register as independent riders. Middle school students should expect to ride with clubs 1-3 times per week with an emphasis on making friends and having fun doing rides that are appropriate for their level.
Middle school students will be able to come to high school races to be part of the scene but will not be competing against high school students. The SoCal League Leaders' Summit is this weekend at Hemet High School. Over 50 SoCal League coaches will be on hand and a round table discussion on middle school programs will take place to help flesh out the pilot program. Middle schoolers can expect to be able to compete in 1 or 2 SoCal League sanctioned races this spring on courses and distances appropriate for their age and skill level. Look for follow up information coming soon.
For questions on registering a middle school club or on which high school clubs might be accepting middle school student-athletes contact SoCal League Director Matt Gunnell at matt@socaldirt.org.
The SoCal High School Cycling League was organized to provide a well-defined race season for youth racers and to promote the formation of teams at public and private high schools. With the cooperation of local race promoters and our sponsors, the League organizes a first class series of races designed for high school aged riders and is the easiest way for youth to get involved in the challenging and exciting world of competitive cycling.
