The NC NICA Podcast: Recent Episodes
Michael Eastwood and Shawn Moore
The official podcast of the North Carolina NICA league. The focus of this podcast is on coaching and team development and everything we do to get #morekidsonbikes! Topics of discussion will range from NICA practice design and activities to issues concerning managing teams to provide student-athletes with the best NICA experience we can provide. We'll also talk about our GRiT, Teen Trail Corps, and Adventure programs, too! Join us as we explore how best to develop positive, confident adults using mountain biking as our tool of choice and hopefully creating a new generation of lifelong mountain bikers in the process!
Title: Don’t Stop Believing
Introduction
Topic: League Director Transition
-Notice to staff/TD/HC
-Notice to league
Topic: Season 10 Update
- Conferences - committee work still going, brief board in September
- Western venues: Pleasant Ridge and Tryon International
- Elementary pilot program - slower than we thought, one team in pilot fall 2025
- Core competencies - trail blazer program, think passport across all program areas
- Team expansion
Topic: Important Dates
- Coach Training
- First coaches call Tuesday 19 August
- Registration: 2 Sep (Coach and Team) 1 Oct (SA)
- New Handbook in September
- 2026 CPT on the website
- Preseason (15 Oct)
- League Summit 18-19 Oct - registration opening this month
- GRiT (25 Oct)
- Event 1 (1 Nov) - Lake Norman
- Regionals (8-9 Nov) - registration opens 25 August
- Event 2 (22 Nov) - Old Fort
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Let's talk about Season 10! Get a preview of what's going on with the upcoming NC NICA season.
- Conferences
- Elementary pilot program
- Core competencies Team expansion
Important Dates
Registration: 2 Sep (Coach and Team) 1 Oct (SA)
Preseason (15 Oct)
League Summit 18-19 Oct
GRiT (26 Oct)
Event 1 (1 Nov) - TBD
Regionals (8-9 Nov)
Event 2 (22 Nov) - Old Fort
*Note - you will hear me talk about the "628" problem - it is actually the 693 puzzle - If every league was the size of Utah, there would be 693,000 NICA student-athletes. In other words, how to we solve the 693 puzzle? This is a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) that was a prominent part of what John Burke, Trek CEO, talked about in his discussions with us at the NICA Leadership Conference in Waterloo, WI in June.
This month we're handing the mic to the student-athletes at the NC GRiT podcast! Check out their latest episode:
Episode 2 of the GRiT Podcast reveals the dates for the upcoming NCICL season with league director Brian Russell. Along with this we shared a recap of the past events that happened over the last few weeks. All in all the highlight of this episode is special guests Siana Rehman and Salma Elwafi who each got to talk about their Senior Ambassador projects which are outreach and the mentor program. Listen in to hear more details!!
You can subscribe to the NC GRiT Podcast wherever you get your podcasts or check them out at https://ncgritpodcast.buzzsprout.com
Music I Use: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
Artist: Lunar Years
License code: VHQCDLXXL5JC2U5X
Title: Shall We Play A Game?
Introduction (Shawn)
Quick numbers update: 235 coaches, 321 riders just one month in (171 HS, 150 MS)
Topic: GRiT Preseason Event Reflections (Brian)
Topic: Team Preseason Activities and Early season practices (Shawn)
- Appropriate progressions and taking care of new/inexperienced riders
Topic: Preseason Update (Shawn and Brian)
- NICA Regionals (9-11 Nov).
- Race registration closed
- Ride and general admission registration open until 8 Nov
- Town Hall Wed 6 Nov at 8pmEST via Zoom
- NC bringing a TTC activation: Lonnie Preslar and Claudia Baum being recognized as top hour earners for 9th grade in the entire region!
- 16 Nov (Adventure focus): new location - Wilkesboro Cub Creek
-Adventure sponsor shout out: Fidlock (Brian), Adventure passports
- 7 Dec (TTC focus) - NCCAR location
- Coach retreat still working dates/locations
- Rescheduled Coach clinic in January
Topic: Season Update (Brian)
- Hope to publish by 1 December
- We have dates and locations now, trying to get a western venue in
Topic: Hurricane Helene Relief campaign
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Title: Helene's Aftermath: Leveling Up Our Support
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Reflections on Helene (Shawn and Brian)
Topic: SA registration opens 1 Oct
Topic: Coach shoutouts (first coaches to register for the 2025 season)
Topic: 5th Grade Pilot Program
- 5 October: last day to opt in for the 5th grade pilot program
- 8 October: NICA hosted training session for participating teams (all team coaches invited)
- See the Resources and Links section for more information on the 5th Grade Pilot program
- Second opt in “deadline” (1 Nov) for the program and second training date (5 Nov)
Topic: Preseason Update
-Coach retreat (26-27 Oct) Camp Grier in Old Fort. Registration opens soon.
- Preseason event dates (registration will be open 1 Oct):
- 2 Nov (GRiT) (no cost) Harris Lake
- 16 Nov (Adventure) - Old Fort ($20) Likely find new location
- 7 Dec (Adventure) - Lake Norman ($20) New location: NCCAR
- NICA Regionals (9-11 Nov).
- Race registration open to all 7 Oct
- Must be registered in PitZone (SA and coach) in order to attend
- NC bringing a TTC activation
- Working to get event dates and locations published in October November - on hold firming up with venues after storm
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Coach and Team Registration opens 3 Sep
Coach registration Opens in PitZone on Tuesday, 3 September 2024 Cost: $25 Closes: end of season (tentative end of May) League Scholarships are available for coach registration fees. Please don’t let financial difficulty limit a willing and available adult to help us get more kids on bikes. See the league website Ride Help page for details or the scholarship link in the Resources and Links section.
Team registration Opens in PitZone on Tuesday, 3 September 2024 Cost: $20* All teams must submit a Team Proposal and will not be sanctioned in PitZone for team activities until the proposal is approved by the League Director. [New] New teams will receive a $200 payment from the league to help offset start up costs from the team. Contact Brian Russell or Shawn Moore if you’re starting a new team this season for details. Closes: 30 November 2024 [late registration open until 31 December for $120]
First coach call of the season to discuss: Tuesday, 17 Sep 8pm Topic: 5th Grade Pilot Program The league will participate in a NICA pilot program for 5th graders this season. The NICA 5th Grade Inclusion Manual gives a great overview of the program. Teams must opt-in if they want to participate! NICA will host an information session for interested TDs/HCs on Tuesday, 24 September (time TBD). Teams that want to participate will need to indicate that on an interest form that will be distributed after the meeting. Teams will need to opt-in no later than 5 October to participate in the program 24 September 2024 (time TBD) 5th Grade Pilot Program Interest meeting 25 September to 5 October: Team interest survey 5 October: last day to opt in for the 5th grade pilot program 8 October: NICA hosted training session for participating teams (all team coaches invited) See the Resources and Links section for more information on the 5th Grade Pilot program
Topic: Date Reminders
Last call for currently scheduled coach training WFA/CPR and WFA/CPR/101101 12-13 Oct 24 RDU
Coach retreat (26-27 Oct) Camp Grier in Old Fort. Registration opens soon. -
Pathfinder scholarship applications close 13 Sep
Preseason event dates (registration will be open 1 Oct):
2 Nov (GRiT) (no cost)
16 Nov (Adventure) - Old Fort ($20)
7 Dec (Adventure) - Lake Norman ($20)
NICA Regionals (9-11 Nov). Registration open now
Working to get event dates and locations published in October
Closing (All) Dad joke
Shawn and Brian talk about the NICA National Conference held in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the pending handbook changes, reminders about the upcoming WFA/CPR and OTBS 101 courses beginning in August and a sneak preview of next season's theme AND Coach Retreat (last weekend in October at Old Fort, NC)!
Gear up for the latest NICA podcast episode! We're diving deep into event recaps, exciting previews of upcoming races (Season Showdown & Whitewater Windup), key end-of-season dates, and a glimpse into what's in store for 2024.
Tune in for the details on:
- Event Recaps: Danville Dash, Mayhem at Mayodan, TTC workdays, and the 5 String Stampede cancellation.
- Season Showdown Preview: Get the lowdown on the theme, course inspection, Strider Bike Rodeo, fundraising updates, Senior Night format changes, new features, and important dates.
- Whitewater Windup Preview: Discover the theme, dates, activities, and awards for this exciting event.
- Upcoming: Stay informed about the end-of-season survey, crucial dates, coach training, pre-season events, and NICA Eastern Regionals.
Don't miss this episode packed with the latest NICA news and updates!
NICA #mountainbiking #youthcycling #SeasonShowdown #WhitewaterWindup #podcast
Introduction (Shawn) - almost halfway through the season of adventure!
Topic: Event Reviews (Brian and Shawn)
-Salisbury Scramble
-TTC work
-reversed start/finish
-live results
-event recap on YouTube
-Danville Dash - brand new
-Adventure course
-race course - positive reviews
-KOM/QOM segment
-event recap coming
Topic: Mayhem at Mayodan Preview (Brian and Shawn)
-Theme: Out of This World
-Saturday
-Trail work opportunity: (3) sessions PZ registration required
-course inspection - group riding reminder
-Staff Pie Smash - fundraiser reminder (ends 28 May)
-Sunday
-course preview is available on YouTube channel
-warm up “area” - in the field
-Dates: 12 April (category petitions), 14 April registration deadline, 17 Apr Town Hall
Topic: Rules (Shawn and Brian)
-Handbook reminder: we all agree to abide by the rules when we sign up and in essence serve as a NICA ambassador - wherever we are
-Two recent issues: course crossing and ear buds. This is all safety based - situational awareness.
-Swiss Cheese model of human error
-we need your help: dogs
Topic: 5 String Stampede (Fletcher) 4-5 May Preview (Brian and Shawn)
-Theme: Wild West
-Context and background story: western venue - yay! Western venue - challenges!
-Course preview released this weekend
-Senior night and celebration
Topic: Upcoming (Shawn and Brian)
- Season Showdown (Mayodan) 18-19 May
- Qualifying: top 30 in each category OR top 20 placement in at least 2 races
- Still working schedule and guidance for non-racers
- Whitewater Windup (Whitewater Center) 1-2 June
- Venue survey this Saturday 13 April to finalize plan
- Basic format: riding/games on Saturday (orienteering), some activity Sunday morning, season awards and fundraiser prizes early afternoon to let folks get on the road
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Crankin at the Creek Review (Brian and Shawn)
-Theme: Beach Bash
-Saturday
-Adventure Course
-TTC tent (rock crawler)
-pre-ride new race course (thanks Cape Fear SORBA)
-Sunday
-Adventure course stayed open (warm up lap)
-live results
-Podium socks (thanks to Ridge Supply)
Topic: Spring Giveaway campaign teaser (Brian)
-Campaign launch date: Friday, March 1st
Hybrid: online and paper tickets, multiple prizes from league sponsors
Campaign end date: midnight Tuesday, May 28th
Giveaway date: Sunday, June 2nd
Topic: Salisbury Scramble Preview (Brian and Shawn)
-Theme: Adventure is Out There
-Context: venue is tight (parking, infield, race course crossings)
-Saturday
-Trail work opportunity: (2) sessions 1:15pm and 3:45 pm. PZ registration required
-Rock crawler: passport activity 22 (2 hours work) and 25 (pick up trash)
-course inspection - stick to groups (1 lap and multi lap)
-Tire clinics - passport opportunity! Skinny Wheels bike shop and Black Ox (prize pack in the spring fundraiser) for tubeless set up clinic
-Movie Night (Up) - 7-9pm PZ registration required. Special VIP section for the team that earns the most fundraising by midnight on 10 March
-Sunday
-schedule changes published by Wed
-course preview is available on YouTube channel
-course crossing guidance
-pick up your trash!
Topic: Date Reminders (Shawn and Brian)
Highlights
- Salisbury Scramble
- Category petitions: 8 Mar
- Event registration: 10 Mar
- Town Hall: 13 Mar
- Trail Week coming! 18-24 March. Contact Leonard for info
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Season Overview (Brian, Shawn and Chelle)
-Event names and themes
-First Event: Crankin at the Creek
-Theme: Beach Bash
-New race course - video preview
-Podium socks - Ridge Supply
-Live results
-Adventure Ride
-Adventure and TTC at every venue: passport activity and TTC tent
-Salisbury Scramble: TTC
-Danville Dash: Adventure Ride
-Mayhem at Mayodan: TTC
-5 String Stampede: Meet and Ride with the Trail Builder (Senior Night)
-Camping and Volunteer registrations go to Home Teams first, then the league
Topic: Team and Wave Management (Shawn and Brian)
-Composite team sub scoring
-Seeding
-Earned Lap Cutoff time
Topic: Spring Giveaway campaign teaser (Chelle)
-Campaign launch date: Friday, March 1st
Paper ticket distribution: Browns Creek event weekend
Campaign end date: midnight Tuesday, May 28th
Giveaway date: Sunday, June 2nd
Topic: Date Reminders (Shawn and Brian)
Highlights
- Crankin at the Creek
- Category petitions: 23 Feb
- Trail Work Day: 24 Feb (contact Dave Droke)
- Event registration: 25 Feb - last day for season discount package
- Registering for the entire weekend! Wristbands
- Caution: no refunds
- Trail Week coming! 18-24 March. Contact Leonard for info
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Chapter League (Brian and Shawn)
-1 Jan 2024 became a Chapter league under NICA
-3 points: 1. Sign of maturity and increased strategic direction (board) 2. A NC non-profit entity 3. Still a member of NICA
Topic: 2024 Awards (Brian)
-Posted on website
-competition: 5 regular season races. [Podium socks - Ridge Supply!] Championship criteria: top 30 in each category and (2) top 20 finishes
-TTC: sticker (3 hrs), t-shirt (5 hrs), gloves (10 hrs - Cognitive!); Trail Week (sticker and pizza party)
-Adventure: passport completion (custom water bottle - Right Gear); mention passport distribution after 23 Jan
Topic: Faces of the League (Shawn)
-Introduce new feature on our YouTube channel
-come join: we’re looking for an announcer
Topic: Sponsor Announcement (Brian)
-Industry Nine - returning sponsor
-mention coach discount
Topic: Event Reminders (Shawn and Brian)
Athletes: 771 (344 HS, 427 MS)(281 new) - as of 13 Jan
Highlights
- Season registration ends 21 Jan (late registration through 23 Feb $250)
- Refunds through 21 Jan (minus admin fee)
- Category petitions - if you want name on the plate
- Coaches - start prioritizing your SAs by category
- Events registration is open (minus championship)
- A la carte ($35 each) and discount package ($140 = 4 of 6) options; discount package will close when registration for our first event closes 25 Feb
- Introducing theme for the weekend
- Registering for the entire weekend
- Caution: no refunds
- GRiT Mentor applications close 22 Jan as well as GRiT hoodie ordering
- Trail Week coming! 18-24 March. Contact Leonard for info
- Working to get volunteer sign ups and camping registration out to home teams end of the month
Closing (All)
Dad joke
A special podcast on location at the Brown's Creek Adventure Event held on Dec. 2nd, 2023.
Special Guest: Dave Droke, Onslow County Composite team coach and Teen Trail Corps Committee member.
Overview of the preseason Adventure Events.
Important upcoming dates.
Dad jokes.
*Special note - The video edition of this podcast includes footage from the Adventure Event at Brown's Creek and captures the true spirit of these events, so check out the full version on our YouTube channel!
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: GRiT Preseason Event Review (Brian)
28 Oct: Warrior Creek
4 Nov: Medoc Mountain
Talking points (more detail included in the event reports):
- TTC Clinic
- Ambassador projects (leadership)
- Mentor Program
Topic: New Team Shout out (Shawn)
- Asheville School (OTBS101 clinic 4 Nov)
- Cabarrus County: Hope Academy and Concord High
- Durham County: Riverside High
- Wake County: Broughton Magnet
Topic: Season 8 Event Registration (Brian)
Athletes: 453 (340 HS, 113 MS)(129 new)
Highlights
- Events registration opens 13 November (minus championship)
- A la carte ($35 each) and discount package ($140 = 4 of 6) options
- Caution: no refunds
Topic: Sponsor Announcement (Brian)
Fidlock is a returning sponsor
Support to our Adventure program: Adventure passport (logo with QR code on cover), they’ll be joining us at the Whitewater Center on 18 Nov)
Topic: Pre-season Date Reminders (Brian and Shawn)
- Regional Event 10-12 Nov in FairHill MD
- Racing registration closed but general admission remains open
20 NC athletes registered (16 race, 4 non-race)
-
Adventure - open to returning student athletes. (mention form in coaches conversation about new athletes) Must attend with their team. Clarify does not count as a pre-season event and teams may attend both. Each event is capped at 200 participants.
-
18 November at Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC
-
2 December at Browns Creek, Elizabethtown
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: League Summit Review (Brian and Shawn)
Give a review of the lessons and some feedback received from coaches
Sat: 2023 review, TTC, Friday Fails, EAP
Sun: 2024 preview, Adventure, Dynamic Agility, Team Culture
Clinics: OTBS101 refresh, 201, course evaluation
Give thanks to WWC for being a great host
Topic: Sponsor Announcement (Brian)
Constellation Cycling - James Lee (course setter) is a member.
CC is hosting their big event of the season (Lions Roar) on 22 October
Lion's Roar. NCCX, Race #3. Sunday, October 22, 2022 - Lions Park - 516 Dennis Ave. Raleigh, NC 27604
Topic: Season 8 Dates and Locations (Brian)
Posted on website and announced via Iterable and social media
Highlights
- Walk through the events by date
- Two new venues
- One western venue - private!
- Qualifying championship (race committee to help determine criteria)
- Season finale = Adventure Festival
- Hybrid fee scheme - discount package
Topic: Sponsor Announcement (Brian)
CognativeMTB a returning sponsor
Support to our TTC program: big 3000 hour goal in 2024 and Trail Week 24’, March 18-24
TTC staff is coordinating events with SORBA chapters and various conservancy
groups across the state to help provide opportunities for teams during that week (goal
of 1,000 hours that week)
Topic: Pre-season Date Reminders (Brian and Shawn)
GRiT - open to all registered female student athletes and coaches
-
28 October at Keowee Park, Wilkesboro (Warrior Creek and Headwaters Hub trails)
-
4 November at Medoc Mountain State Park, Hollister, NC
Adventure - open to returning student athletes. (mention form in coaches conversation about new athletes) Must attend with their team. Head Coaches may choose one event for their team to attend. Each event is capped at 200 participants. If we have extra space at either event, we will open it to teams wishing to attend both, as space is available. Clarify does not count as a pre-season event
-
18 November at Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC
-
2 December at Browns Creek, Elizabethtown
Regional Event 10-12 Nov in FairHill MD
Registration closes Tuesday 17 October extended to 1 Nov
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Coach Training Update (Shawn)
- Course registration closed
16-17 SepWFA/OTBS101 Session 4 (Location: Raleigh)
30 Sep to 1 OctWFA/OTBS101 Session 5 (Location: Fayetteville)
Topic: League Summit update (Brian)
7-8 Oct Whitewater Center
-just under 30 registered: plenty of spots open
-camping available! (including Friday night)
-two special clinics: OTBS101 refresh and course evaluation ride
Topic: Team and Coach Registration Open 15 September (Shawn)
Thought: probably highlight coaches conversation topics
- Dos and Don’ts
- PitZone Hygiene
- Team Proposal form
- Pre-season activity approval form
Topic: Sponsor Announcement (Brian)
Podiumwear now a league level sponsor - providing the league our leader jerseys
Good time for teams to reach out to them for jersey requirements for the upcoming season
Topic: Pre-season Date Reminders (Brian and Shawn)
-
GRiT - open to all registered female student athletes and coaches
-
28 October at Keowee Park, Wilkesboro (Warrior Creek and Headwaters Hub trails)
-
4 November at Medoc Mountain State Park, Hollister, NC
-
Adventure - open to returning student athletes. (mention form in coaches conversation about new athletes) Must attend with their team. Head Coaches may choose one event for their team to attend. Each event is capped at 200 participants. If we have extra space at either event, we will open it to teams wishing to attend both, as space is available.
-
18 November at Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC
-
2 December at Browns Creek, Elizabethtown
-
Regional Event 10-12 Nov in FairHill MD
- Registration closes Tuesday 17 October
Topic: New Website (Brian)
- Will launch Friday, 15 September
- Works well on mobile
- Refreshed with 2023 pictures, has season video - thanks Deb and Kyle
- Things to look out for before 1 Oct (SA registration)
- Season fee and registration information
- League Handbook changed
- Category Table and CPT
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Coach Training Update (Shawn)
- Feedback on first training course of the season (5-6 August) in Asheville
- Questions from coaches
- (4) new coach supporters (3 female)
- Thank you to IC Imagine for hosting
- Upcoming courses (registration and online training reminder)
12-13 AugWFA/OTBS101 Session 2 (Location: Asheville)
26-27 AugWFA/OTBS101 Session 3 (Location: Raleigh)
16-17 SepWFA/OTBS101 Session 4 (Location: Raleigh)
30 Sep to 1 OctWFA/OTBS101 Session 5 (Location: Fayetteville)
7-8 Oct League Summit (TBD) WWC?
Topic: NICA Handbook Updates (Brian and Shawn)
*thank you to coaches who submitted input in survey and throughout the season
*changes reviewed by rules committee and approved by LD - submitted to NICA
- Category Table Changes
-One MS A category for both boys and girls
-Changes to HS categories: all ability based (HS 1, HS 2, HS 3, Varsity)
-Updates to petition pathways (MS athletes racing in HS categories do not score points for their team)
-update to race points for MSA, and top tier HS category (40 point bonus for MSA and HS 3, 75 point bonus for Varsity)
- Other significant updates
-no participation bonus points
-”Independent Rider” policy
-no outside assistance penalty for MS B and first HS category (all 1 lap races)
-now in writing: pet policy, 100% call ups, course length and difficulty
Topic: Pre-season Overview (Brian, Shawn and Chelle)
- League Summit (Brian and Shawn)
-7-8 October at Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC
-Content: specific coach training for NC
-Rides and activities at the center
- Pre-season events (Chelle)
GRiT - open to all registered female student athletes and coaches
-
28 October at Keowee Park, Wilkesboro (Warrior Creek and Headwaters Hub trails)
-
4 November at Medoc Mountain State Park, Hollister, NC
Adventure - open to returning student athletes. Must attend with their team. Head
Coaches may choose one event for their team to attend. Each event is
capped at 200 participants. If we have extra space at either event, we will
open it to teams wishing to attend both, as space is available.
-
18 November at Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC
-
2 December at Browns Creek, Elizabethtown
-
Regional Event (Brian)
-Dates and location
-Guidelines
2024 Season Date Reminders
15 SepTeam and Coach Registration opens
15 Oct??SA Registration opens
*new website coming by September!
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Announcements (Shawn)
Coach training update
5-6 AugCoach Supporter Training
WFA/OTBS101 Session 1(Location:Asheville)
12-13 AugWFA/OTBS101 Session 2 (Location: Asheville)
26-27 AugWFA/OTBS101 Session 3 (Location: Raleigh)
16-17 SepWFA/OTBS101 Session 4 (Location: Raleigh)
30 Sep to 1 OctWFA/OTBS101 Session 5 (Location: Fayetteville)
7-8 OctLeague Summit (TBD)
Topic: League Director Conference (Brian)
-Great support from Trek
-NC Brief: Reward and Recognize
-Good idea hub
-Utah: How to be a big league (coaches!)
-NV North: How to have fun on weekends (event themes, line choices on courses, announcer interviews, night ride)
-AR: How to pack it all in (compressed schedule, mid-day awards, rotate HS/MS AM/PM, stage all awards ahead of time)
-NJ: 100% call up program (lap time average vs points)
-PA: How to maxmize TTC (partner with state OREC)
Topic: Survey Review ( Brian)
- Economic Impact Survey
-$180k over the season
-$45-50k for each venue
-thanks to Industry Nine: the most input into any survey in NICA. (Winner:Yates Pharr, Henderson Hellbenders)
- End of Season Survey
-90% returning coaches, SAs, parents
-strongly agree or agree physical and mental health improved
-agree coaches building good teams and good at skills incorporation
-participation costs about right (70% want season + race fee)
NC answers
- What brings you to the league and what would you like to see more of (97 responses):
- More opportunities for non-racing SAs
- More interaction between teams and SAs from other teams
- Closer venues
- What kept you from racing? More than 20% I’d rather just ride and not interested in racing
- What kind of Adventure events would you like:
- Emphasize connecting with other athletes and teams
- Just ride! As a group, in a new place
- Scavenger hunts (on trails)
- Skills: maintenance, ride planning, navigation
- Trail maintenance
- -63% would still participate in a one-day adventure event if a race was canceled
- 75% interested in a league sponsored camp over the summer
- 50% overnight, 27% day camp
- Type: skills (need to consider levels); adventure riding
- 60% prefer to stay a spring league
2024 Season Preview
15 SepTeam and Coach Registration opens
1 OctSA Registration opens
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Topic: Announcements (Shawn)
Season officially over: Sunday 4 June last official day of the season
Look for rules change recommendations
Topic: Season Recap (Shawn and Brian)
- Season Showdown review
-New events: Scavenger Hunt, Senior Recognition
-CCW course
-Season Awards
- Season Review
-4 of 6 events
-what we learned: we can manage large categories; we can run a one-day event, we can run a compressed schedule
-Teen Trail Corps: over 1800 hours! (thank CognativeMTB)
-Volunteers: Home Teams and reduced shifts worked
-New: TC Screen Printing for merchandise
-economic impact and end of season survey results pending - next podcast
Topic: Coach training (Shawn)
5-6 AugCoach Supporter Training
WFA/OTBS101 Session 1(Location:____________)
12-13 AugWFA/OTBS101 Session 2 (Location:____________)
26-27 AugWFA/OTBS101 Session 3 (Location:____________)
16-17 SepWFA/OTBS101 Session 4 (Location:_____________)
30 Sep to 1 OctWFA/OTBS101 Session 5 (Location:_____________)
7-8 OctLeague Summit
Cutaway Bike Camp
2024 Season Preview
15 SepTeam and Coach Registration opens
1 OctSA Registration opens
Topic: Sponsorship Announcements (Brian)
Trek Giveaway results - over $15k raised (record for NC)
Thanks: CognitiveMTB, Cutaway Bike Camp, Industry Nine (new), Fidlock (new)
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Why are mountains the funniest places to go for summer vacation?
Because they’re hill arious…
Introduction (Shawn)
Announcements (Shawn and Brian)
Registration updates
Dark Mountain Duel: No more category petitions; Registration closes 11:59pm Monday, 1 May. - 270 currently Call for volunteers (38% as of today), Town Hall Wed, 3 May 8pm
-Course inspection change (Shawn)
-JV1/Freshmen boys schedule change (Brian)
-Course change (includes lake loop - 5.4 miles) (Shawn)
-Reminder: parking (shuttle!)
Topic: Weather Decisions (Brian)
Scene setter: 3 race cancellations in one season
-NICA weather guidance
-Venue selection
-Land manager authority
-Risk decisions
Topic: Season Showdown (Chelle)
Scene setter: closing out the season in style
-Scavenger hunt (20 May)
-Senior recognition: night ride, posters, call ups, podium
Topic: Sponsorship Announcements (Brian)
Trek Giveaway - $7195 so far
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Announcements (Shawn and Brian)
Registration updates
Dark Mountain Dash: No more category petitions; Registration closes 11:59pm Monday, 27 Mar. - 414 currently Call for volunteers (45% as of today), Town Hall Wed, 29 March 8pm
Rain Date: also Dark Mountain 6 and 7 May. Registration open. Moved Salisbury Home Teams to this venue, describe “refund” process for Salisbury
Topic: Event Weekend Feedback (Shawn and Brian)
Scene setter: What did we learn and adjust after Browns Creek?
Pet Policy
Course Inspection adherence
Topic: Weekend Overview (Shawn and Brian)
Scene setter: What to expect for Dark Mountain Dash
Parking and Shuttle
Coaching tips?
Weather call: Thursday (30 March) before noon
Topic: Sponsorship Announcements (Brian)
Trek Giveaway - $4400 so far
Closing (All)
Dad joke
Introduction (Shawn)
Announcements (Shawn and Brian)
Registration updates
Crankin at the Creek: No more category petitions; Registration closes 11:59pm Monday, 27 Feb. Call for volunteers
Salisbury Scramble: Volunteer and camping links open in draft flyer on website. Race/GRiT registration open until 11:59pm Monday, 13 March.
Topic: Race Preparation (Shawn and Brian)
Scene setter: What do first time event participants need to know?
Things to communicate to parents who are attending their first event weekend.
Race plate pickup, who can ride on course and when, non-NICA attendees with bikes, HELMETS, course side behavior, feeding/waterbottle handups, respect for volunteers and Event Staff.
Topic: Weekend Overview (All)
Scene setter: its in the flyer! Post final version on Wed, 1 Mar and discuss during Town Hall
Friday (Todd): what can volunteers expect to help with
Saturday (Shawn and Chelle): Coach ride and pre-ride plan; GRiT and Adventure overview
Sunday (Todd and Brian): staging and call up procedures; end of the day (everyone cleans up!)
Topic: Sponsorship Announcements (Brian)
New league sponsors: Industry Nine (racing sponsor; Jacob from Franklin School of Innovation is coach and VP) and Fidlock (Adventure sponsor; Patrick CEO of Fidlock, parent of student athlete)
Closing (All)
Dad joke
This month we are talking about all things racing - Race and GRiT Registration, Home Teams w/ Volunteer Coordinator Diane Leblanc (diane@northcarolinamtb.org), and Wave Structure plus Special surprise appearance by the impeccably timed Aussie Shepherd/Heeler, MacGarrett, and Dad Jokes.
News about the new Teen Trail Corps program, reminders about registration for the season and for races, plus discussion about incorporating start and passing practice sessions in your team practices in order to get prepared for this season's larger field sizes.
League Summit recap, a bit of PitZone knowledge, some important dates for student-athlete registration, the home team plan, Teen Trail Corps and space-themed dad jokes.
In this episode we talk about the pre-season GRiT events, talk with Austin Bankert - the founder of Cognative MTB and new sponsor of the NC Teen Trail Corps program, and give a preview of all of the content that will be a part of the upcoming League Summit!
It's time to start registering for the 2023 NCICL season!
This episode has lots of information on all things to do with coach registration in PitZone. Also, information on the possibility of some new teams holding OTBS 101 trainings before the season starts on Dec. 1st.
Short, sweet, and packed with important information. Take a listen to get important dates for the coming registration period, preseason, and regular season. Plus, lots of reminders on best practices and procedures. The 2023 season is coming soon!
Join us as we recap the Salisbury race, share some advice on hype etiquette, discuss a few rules, encourage you to read the NICA Handbook, clear up some misconceptions, elaborate on some ideas for Course Inspection and generally talk NCICL mountain bike racing!
To continue with our information on preparing for the first race of the season, this episode focuses on the race weekend itself. From some often forgotten things to pack, to details about different parts of the race weekend schedule, this one is packed with (hopefully) helpful information!
If you have a question about anything regarding race weekend, email shawn@northcarolinamtb.org
This month's episode is packed with information to help student-athletes, coaches, and families get ready for the first race of the NCICL 2022 season and the first race in over 2 years. From specific skills to incorporate into team practice, to specific schedules and procedures of the race weekend, this episode is full of important information that many teams may be wondering about. Listen and then join us on this month's Coaches Call on Feb. 21st for follow up discussion and questions pertaining to this month's podcast topic.
This month, we talk about our personal resolutions, maintaining coach licensing level compliance on teams and how to work with less than the required number of coaches to meet ratios, and Dad jokes!
Tracks:
1) Goals
2) The Fundamentals
3) Dad Joke
4) Singlespeeds solve the world's problems
You hear how kids have been affected over the pandemic the past two years and we want to share some of the differences we are observing in our interactions with kids outside of NICA plus pass on some tips and tricks for managing these behaviors.
As our league matures (Sixth season!), it is important that Head Coaches plan ahead for the future of their team without them. We give some insight on planning for the future that you should implement this season.
An episode full of reminders for getting your pre-season started right! Plus info on upcoming GRiT events for female student-athletes, US Men's XC MTB racing takes a historic step forward at the Snowshoe World Cup, and the return of the Question of the Podcast!
The season of Coach training and retreats is finally here! In this episode we recap our first weekend OTBS training events in Asheville and discuss the upcoming trainings occurring throughout the state in the month of August. Then learn more about the Coach Retreats and GRiT Retreat coming up in September and October.
The first of our off season podcasts includes more details about OTBS 101 and 201 trainings in August, Coach Retreats and GRiT retreats in September and October, plus other banter...
This month's theme song by Owen Moore, Freshman - Caldwell Black Bears
Send us an mp3 of your theme song and we will feature it on a future podcast!
In this episode we look ahead to pre-season coach trainings, coach retreats, the GRiT retreat, and the 2022 NCICL season.
Introduction
- Question of the podcast: What is your dream bike?
- News/Main Topic: Steve Matous - NICA President - will be on the March Coaches Call (3/15) and will be available for questions/feedback.
- Program highlight: Coaches roundtable segment w/ Matt Hartman (Cabarrus Cog Crushers), Sheena Morrill (Fayetteville Dirt Grinders), Michael Murphy (Pisgah Rage), Annie Ramsbotham (Henderson Hellbenders)
- HC/Coach info/spotlight: Trail Corner segment - Lower Wilson Ridge Trail https://www.trailforks.com/trails/lower-wilson-ridge/
- NICA sponsor/coaches discount highlight: Plug for the Send It! Mountain bike board game. https://gamefound.com/projects/senditboardgames/sendit#/section/rider-cards-1082
- Outro: Follow up coaches call on (date/time)
Have a question? Have a topic idea for a future podcast? We want to hear from you!
Shawn (shawn@northcarolinamtb.org) and Michael (michael@northcarolinamtb.org)
- Introduction
- What’s your favorite post ride activity?
- News/Main Topic: Join our Team! (Mike Long)
- We are looking to both grow and diversify our team, and are actively interested in individuals from across the state with various experience, backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations.
- Filling open positions, as well as developing support staff for existing positions, is critical to our future success as we continue to experience explosive growth and continue to offer expanded programs and opportunities for NC’s youth to become a part of our thriving and engaged NICA community.
- We are also seeking to train additional race staff to help support and lead various roles throughout race weekend – so please feel free to reach out if you are interested in helping! Even if we do not have a position listed that quite fits your skills/interests I’m sure we can find a spot for you to fit right at home in!
Open Positions
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Program highlight: Jeff Archer Loaner Bike Program (see Matt Hraban interview below - it’s a twofer)
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TD info/spotlight: Trek Raffle - “New Year, New Bike!”
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Coming into the 2021 season NCICL applied to host a Trek Raffle to benefit the league AND our teams, and we are happy to report that we were chosen!
- This is a super simple and easy way for your teams to raise funds. When individuals purchase raffle tickets they will be able to support a team - and in that case the team and the league will split the proceeds 50/50!! The easy part - this is all online! No tickets to distribute, cash to collect, or COVID challenges. Just share the link!
10 Entries $10, 30 Entries $25, 75 Entries $50, 200 Entries $100
- Trek is providing some amazing prizes for the raffle.
- Trek Fuel Ex 9.8
- WaveCel Helmet
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Bontrager Ion 200 RT/Flare RT Light Set
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HC/Coach info/spotlight: GRiT Mentor Program (Chelle Frost)
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Applications for the 2021 GRiT Mentor Program are now open until February 6th for new or beginner female student-athletes!
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5 virtual calls to connect newer female student-athletes with Ambassadors from across the state. Also opportunity to connect mentors/mentees at Regional GRiT Events coming up across the state.
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NICA sponsor/coaches discount highlight: Trek Matt Hraban, manager Trek Chapel Hill
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How teams and student-athletes can establish a relationship with their local bike shop the importance of that relationship, what bike shops do for the cycling community in their area, and the Trek NICA discount program.
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Outro
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Follow up coaches call on Monday, February 15 at 7:30pm
- Have a question? Have a topic idea for a future podcast? We want to hear from you!
- shawn@northcarolinamtb.org & michael@northcarolinamtb.org
See you on the trail!
Introduction
Question of the podcast: Where is your dream place to ride?
News/Main Topic:
Goal Setting w/o Racing and Keeping Performance Focused SA's Interested: Focusing on various aspects of destination rides may help create connections/interests for student-athletes.
Program highlight: Teen Trail Corps (Barry Evans, NCICL TTC Coordinator, Coach Durham team, Trail Coordinator for TORC / Triangle Off-Road Cyclists)
Overview of Teen Trail Corps :
Badges that Student-Athletes can Earn: Speak, Serve, Ride, Respect ( Earn your TTC Captain designation by completing all 4)
How do Student-Athletes Record their Work for the Different Badges? You submit this form, your coach approves it, and you get credit towards your badge.
Team Reporting of TTC Hours: ENTIRELY SEPARATE from getting credit towards badges, coaches are able to log into PitZone and add hours for any team event, or any club workdays. That helps us measure how much impact we’re having on the local community.
Where can Coaches and Student-Athletes go if they have Questions or Want to Learn More? NICA National TTC page is chock full of info (and linked to from NCICL page). Barry is always a resource and can be reached at barry@northcarolinamtb.org
TD Info/Spotlight:
First Aid/CPR Extensions: Many first aid training providers are extending certifications, IF you are eligible for an extension please follow directions from the provider:
- SOLO certification
- NOLS certification
- Red Cross certification
EAPs Uploaded to League Map: We have added all submitted EAPs to the League Map. Consider reaching out to local teams when using EAPs to explore new trails with your student-athletes to get greater insight and guidance while exploring NC. Please submit your Emergency Action Plan via THIS FORM so that they can be shared with other teams.
WFA Requirements: Please be mindful when planning destination rides that many ideal ride destinations (larger networks in state forests, trails in Western NC) require WFA to bring your student-athletes.
HC/Coach Info/Spotlight:
Loaner Bike Update: We are working with Trek dealers across NC to fulfill our needs this season - this will hopefully make distribution/return of loaner bikes easier.
NICA Sponsor/Coaches Discount Highlight:
Timber! Bell(Chris Lacy - Founder) - Utilize the discount code NICA20 for savings on checkout!
Outro : Coaches Call and Coaches Conversation Reminder: Follow up coaches call on Monday January 18th at 7:30pm. Next Coaches Conversation: Thursday January 21
We'd love to hear your questions, feedback & ideas for future episodes!
shawn@northcarolinamtb.org
michael@northcarolinamtb.org
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Introduction
-
News/Main Topic:
Holiday Travel and Team Activity - we suggest that teams consider following the additional precaution of PAUSING POD/TEAM ACTIVITIES FOR 10 DAYS FOLLOWING HOLIDAYS. Team Placement Rules (based on school attendance not residence)
3. Program highlight: Adventure Program, Melissa Davies
Virtual Adventure Training - When: Dec 28, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAof-qqpjsqH9xbBmXGND4oNRA7O0PJCMOl **After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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TD info/spotlight:**
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Student-Athlete - practice ready
- Coaches - checking for red exclamation points (hover to see what is missing)
- Reactivating coaches/student-athletes or moving student-athletes from MS to HS (or between teams) - reach out to michael@northcarolinamtb.org
- Adventure Field Guides - The Adventure Field Guide provides NICA Coaches with an accessible and easy to use resource to deliver team building and experiential opportunities to student-athletes at practice.
IF YOU HAVE NOT DONE SO ALREADY - Please complete THIS FORM to get your team’s field guides. A PDF of the Adventure Field Guide is also available in Litmos in the Coaches’ Adventure Toolbox as an Additional Resource for all Level 2 and Level 3 NICA coaches.
5. HC/Coach info/spotlight:
Adventure program ideas for teams
- Trail Bingo - create cards with items pods would need to find on trail/do on trail to complete their bingo card
- Bingo Card Generator - https://myfreebingocards.com/bingo-card-generator/edit/uzyq47
- Universal plan that can be done at the team level
- Photo Scavenger Hunt
New online one-time ride waiver for adults and kids - individual receives an email of their signed agreement - forward or show when they arrive.
- NICA sponsor highlight: Club Ride (Mike Herlinger, Founder and Cameron Lloyd, Marketing manager)
Here’s more info on the awesome discount program that Club Ride does for NICA Coaches, Kids, and Parents 40% off for NICA Coaches and 20% off for NICA KIDS & Parents https://www.nationalmtb.org/benefits/#apparel
Level 1, 2, 3 - No Minimum License Requirement
Apply to our Pro Program via the link below to get your NICA discount. Make sure to have your league name, team, head coaches name, and lastly you will need to enter the code NICA2020 to complete the application. https://www.clubrideapparel.com/pages/pro-application
- **Outro - Coaches Call and email follow up schedule
We'd love to hear your questions, feedback & ideas for future episodes!
shawn@northcarolinamtb.org
michael@northcarolinamtb.org**
Introduction
- Intro
- Podcast purpose
News/Main Topic: NCICL Season overview
- “The season of adventure”
- Why no races?
- So, what CAN we do?
- Explore NC - Destination Rides
- NICA ABC challenge
- Covid considerations for practice
- “Foot down, mask up”
- Practice pods
Program highlight: GRiT Coaches Retreat (Nov. 14-15 at Ride Kanuga)
- What is going to be offered
- 101/201 (days?)
- Round table discussions
- Cost
- Rapha GRiT grant dramatically reduces cost
- What is included?
TD info/spotlight: PitZone information/reminders
- All coach licenses reset on Oct. 15.
- You only need to do what is required for the highest level you had last year
- Every level 2 and level 3 coach will have to reaffirm their contact hours (super simple process now)
- Remember that background checks are annual requirements now
- New online one-time ride waiver for adults and kids
HC/Coach info/spotlight: What’s your NICA why?
- In a time of uncertainty, thinking about what motivates you...
NICA sponsor/coaches discount highlight: Podiumwear
- Information on custom team facemasks
- NC GRiT Jersey storefront reopened!
- aaron@podiumwear.com for more info
Outro
- Follow up coaches call on (Nov. 16, 7:30 pm )
- Have a question? Have a topic idea for a future podcast? We want to hear from you!
Coming soon - The NC NICA Podcast! Join us as we present important information about the season, programs, coaching, and all things NC NICA! We'll be joined by NC program directors, coaches and student-athletes from around the state, and NICA sponsors.
Hosted by: Michael Eastwood, NCICL Associate League Director and
Shawn Moore, NCICL Director of Coaching and Team Development