NICA Coaching
Skilled and dedicated coaches are the most important aspect of Kentucky Interscholastic Cycling League mountain bike teams. A Kentucky League coach puts the safety and overall well-being of their student-athletes as the first priority. NICA-licensed coaches are role models and teachers who are open to learning the best practices of youth mountain bike coaching and actively working to hone their leadership skills.
Coaches quickly learn that coaching a NICA team can be a lot of work, yet perhaps one of the most rewarding experiences of their lifetime. Many coaches report improved personal well-being and fitness after just one season.
Prospective coaches can learn about all things coaching by signing up for the Kentucky League’s Coaches Newsletter here. Subscribe today to learn how to gain access to exclusive coaching content and get updates on important league information.
How do I become a NICA Coach?
NO PRIOR COACHING EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY!
The Kentucky Interscholastic Cycling League will provide all the NICA risk management and best practice training you’ll need to jump right in and start coaching a team. Seminars and training clinics are held throughout the year, including online webinars, On The Bike (OTB) skills clinics, and an annual retreat.
Where do I get started?
All NICA coaches start with NICA License Level 1 and take it one step at a time throughout the year as opportunities arise to complete additional requirements. Minimum requirement to ride with/coach students is NICA License Level 1 as per NICA “Safe Kids Policy”.
STEP 1: Check out NICA’s Coach Licensing Program for NEW and RETURNING coaches HERE
STEP 2: Contact the Kentucky League Director Denile Hill at: denile@kentuckymtb.org
STEP 3: Start talking with other people you think would be good coaches and build your relationships!
Coach-In-Training Program (CIT)
The CIT Program is only for KICL Alumni who want to coach and meet the following criteria:
- Have graduated from high school
- Will not be 18 years old before July 1st of the season after they have graduated
***KICL Alum who will be 18 years old before July 1st of the season should register as a coach and not a CIT.***
How To Apply:
The Head Coach or Team Director must first approve of the CIT request by the KICL Alum.
The HC or TD and prospective CIT will review the HEAD COACH and CIT ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES paper together to establish expectations.
The HC or TD will complete the CIT REGISTRATION FORM. Parents or Guardians will review the FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES PAPER with the prospective CIT, and parents/guardians will receive and sign an electronic waiver and complete additional steps outlined in an email from NICA coach licensing (please check your spam folders if you do not see the NICA email).