The Behavior Management for NICA Teams guide is your go-to resource for fostering a positive, inclusive team environment. Packed with practical strategies, it’s designed to help coaches confidently manage behavior and support every athlete’s success.
Helmet safety isn’t just a seasonal topic—it’s a year-round priority. Whether you’re choosing, replacing, or adjusting a helmet, these key tips will help ensure optimal protection and comfort.
Did you know that NICA has a Canva library of pre-made templates for your mountain bike teams?
From postcards to yard signs, flyers to social media posts, and even business cards that are perfect to carry along on a ride in your hip pack — we’ve got a wide range of templates to get you started, or to inspire your own custom design.
NICA is excited to share a NEW resource called the NICA Gear. This guide provides the foundational basics on the equipment and gear needed for any rider to be a part of a NICA team.
The NICA Superstar Ballot is an “official” yet fun way you can acknowledge the awesomeness on your teams every day. You’ve probably seen our digital Superstar Ballots on social media this month (if you haven’t yet, check out our Instagram story highlights!) – the concept is simple: the Superstar Ballot is a short, standardized form that allows you to acknowledge your athletes, families, and fellow coaches for all the positive things they bring to the team.
The NICA First Aid Committee has revised the first aid requirements for coaches to improve clarity, scalability, and accessibility.
Coaches who have taken the Online Leaders’ Summit will recognize the Great Teammate Pledge as an early season activity that helps the team work together to set expectations and is an important aspect of behavior management.
Student-athletes in team captain positions have the opportunity to learn effective leadership while being positive role-models and cheerleaders for their teammates. Choosing team captains should be done based on character and leadership qualities.
What we as coaches say to our student-athletes matters and impacts their experiences. What parents say to their student-athletes can make an even bigger impact and can influence their love of the sport. John O’Sullivan, founder of the Changing the Game Project and best-selling author asserts that the best thing a parent can say to a student-athlete after competition is “I love watching you play (ride)”.
Event season is right around the corner for fall leagues. Many student-athletes are about to participate in their first race for the season, or maybe their first race ever! When kids are nervous about races, we can support them with thoughtful practice planning and empathetic support.