Welcome!
Interesed in starting a NICA team? That’s awesome!
WHy?
Before you begin, it is important to reflect on why you want to start a NICA team. If your goal is to provide a positive environment where students can discover mountain biking, create camaraderie, and grow into life-long cycling enthusiasts, then NICA is the perfect fit. Understanding your motivation is key to making this journey one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. After reflecting on your “WHY”- then you are ready to move forward on the life changing path of starting a NICA team.
WHO can start a team?
Parents, administrators, teachers, or even students are all welcome to start a mountain bike club at their local middle or high school. While the founder does not need to be a school employee, having a teacher, administrator, or school volunteer part of the initiative can be helpful when navigating the school community and recruiting students. Teams can start with one adult and one student, then grow into something amazing. Extensive cycling experience is not required; the primary qualification is a desire to introduce youth to the sport of mountain biking. Once you decide to form a team, the League will provide the education, training, and tools necessary to help your team succeed.
When can I start at team?
NICA-Tennessee teams can form anytime during the year, though we recommend starting in the spring. This timing allows you to attend the Leadership Summit and coach retreat, discuss the club with your school, and build community interest before the fall event series begins.
Tennessee League Season Timeline
- March 1: NICA Pit Zone opens for teams and coaches.
- April 1: NICA Pit Zone opens for student-athletes. Pre-season begins.
- Monday after July 4: Regular season practices can begin for our fall event series.
For details on team training limits and guidelines, please refer to the NICA-Tennessee Handbook.
WHAT Now?
Reach out to us!
We are here to help get you started on this incredible journey of giving the joy of mountain biking to students across the state of Tennessee.
NICA Resources
Team Starter Kit Page
Coach with NICA
Coach Licensing Program
Stay connected and sign up for the Tennessee League Newsletter!