How do I join a team? Take a look at our Teams page and find a team in your area. Reach out to the coach to join the team. If you can’t find a team that is the right fit for you, email us at info@texasmtb.org to set up a new team or race as an independent rider.
What if I don’t want to race? There are lots of ways to participate on a NICA team. Racing is only one of them. NICA members are not required to race so you can join a team and have a great time without ever attending a race.
I’m still on the fence. Can I try it out? Interested riders and parents can sign a one-time participation waiver to try it out before joining a team. Contact a coach in your area to try out a team practice.
Frequently Asked Questions by Coaches/Parents
How do I start a middle or high school mountain bike team? Administrators, teachers, students, community members, anyone can potentially begin a cycling club at their local middle or high school. Every district works a little differently, but most schools athletic programs depend on the support of community members. Visit your school and ask questions about their current sports programs and clubs. Whether considered a club, or an athletic program, it is important to find support from the school. Discuss your plans and ideas with your school administration. Next, you’ll need to meet a few NICA coaching requirements to get started.
How do I recruit kids for a team? Various teams have had success with many different recruiting techniques. Host a Bike Club table at Club Rush. Meeting with the Athletic Director in order to educate he/she about your new club is another idea. Email the Texas League at info@texasmtb.org and ask if there are current teams or clubs that you can connect with in your area. Put an article in the school newspaper, get parents to talk to other parents, send an email to your school’s Boosters Club.
Do I have to have insurance for a club or team? Yes. Do not run a program without adequate insurance coverage! NICA provides comprehensive liability insurance to all teams and coaches who officially register with the Texas League.
Funding Questions
Can I get a scholarship for race entry fees? The Texas League is able to provide scholarships to registered League athletes who are in need of financial assistance. Please complete this form to start the process: Race Scholarship Application.
Do you have any cycling gear that our team can buy? Yes, we do. The Texas League runs a lycra drive program and gets new and used gear donated for the sole purpose of donating to teams and individual riders. Also, we always bring all our donated cycling gear to our Leaders Summit for coaches to access for their teams.
Can I get a good deal or discount on a new bike? Coach volunteers have access to numerous benefits and discounts including discounts on bikes. Talk to your head coach about becoming a volunteer coach.
I still have questions. No problem. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. Shoot us an email at info@texasmtb.org and we will get back with you soon!