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Data for Coaches

At the end of each NICA season we send out a survey to all coaches, parents, and student-athletes. The 2022 fall end of season survey had some interesting results that can help inform our coaching.

One of the most impressive results from the survey was that 97% of student-athletes reported that…

Building Team Culture during the start of your season

Teams take time to form and build. Coaches need to respect that building process and help guide athletes through the process. The start of each season is a great way to invite new athletes into your team culture and remind returning athletes why they love being a part of your team.

Tim’s Training TIps: Plan your season like a pro

You probably know a team that functions like a well-oiled machine. They get team rides started on time and without any drama while also somehow incorporating training components, skill development and team building…all in the same ride!
These teams inspire dreams of being a part of a group that functions seamlessly at such a high level, though we may not know exactly how to make it happen. The secret is surprisingly simple: focus on meaningful planning.

Dial in your Recruitment Plan

The beginning of the preseason is fast-approaching, and recruitment of new student-athletes is a priority. Here are a few practical resources and ideas to use to structure and host your recruiting efforts.

The Endlessly-Adaptable Scavenger Hunt

For our spring leagues in the midst of race season, a scavenger hunt can be a great mid-week change to your practice routine. It can make a trail system that you’ve ridden dozens of times feel like a new experience. A scavenger hunt or full-team on-trail game can break up race prep or help your athletes take a rest after a weekend of racing.

Meet Coeus

Coeus offers a growing library of on-demand CEU courses built specifically for NICA coaches. As proud NICA educational partners, we work hard to provide valuable content appropriate for all coaching levels.

Middle school cross country mountain bike racer moving through race course with blurred background.

Nutrition basics for coaches

Nutrition around training can seem like a daunting, complex issue. There are recommendations everywhere saying you need “this product” or “that product”. How do coaches support student-athletes with questions around nutrition? Keep it simple, and keep it healthy.