As a visual creative, I am a people watcher at heart. I am always looking around for the “moment” that defines the time and space that I am in. When I turn away from the bikes, I frequently see student-athletes running around with cameras to capture their friends out on course. I frequently am giving some tips and guidance on how to use the various DSLRs that they have and what to look for when shooting.
At the heart of NICA is a commitment to support not just athletes, but well-rounded individuals. At NICA’s latest Eastern Regional event, the organization partnered with FujiFilm to offer a unique opportunity for student-athletes to explore their passion for photography and visual storytelling.
A thriving cycling community requires three things; a community of peers and friends, organized programming to provide opportunities for riding, and equipment that keeps up with progression. Bringing together all three is often easier said than done, but in NICA’s Delaware League, League Director Charles Barillo has cracked the code.
Of all the possible activities, Marion Gottschalk never expected to fall in love with mountain biking. As a former tennis player and current downhill skier, road cyclist, singer and entrepreneur, the notion of grinning while spinning wild trails on chunky tires took her by surprise. Sometimes it’s our kids who welcome us to new adventures.
For the North Carolina Interscholastic Cycling League, trail stewardship is more than just a service activity. It is a core part of what it means to be a mountain biker. Through the Teen Trail Corps program, student-athletes across the state are discovering that taking care of trails is meaningful, empowering, and fun.
WI NICA athletes join forces with CORP Trails to restore Blue Mound’s iconic trails—gaining skills, confidence, and a new sense of stewardship along the way.
Motivated by their love of cycling and the outdoors, Texas NICA student-athletes Jack and Daniel launched RideLens, a sunglasses company that provides high-quality, stylish eyewear at an affordable price.
Deciding exactly what to give your coaches, student-athletes, family, and friends around the holidays can be tricky! That’s why we’ve worked with our trusted partners to collect a list of gift recommendations to please even the pickiest pedalers. We’ve even got some extra deep discounts so you can throw something in the cart for yourself, too.
A butterfly flaps its wings across the globe. A pebble splashes into the center of a pond…or, a NICA coach sees an opportunity to improve their community, and in doing so inspires countless volunteers, advocates, and leaders to invest in the power of mountain biking.
One of a parent’s proudest NICA moments is cheering for their child when they pass by on the trail, cross the finish line, or master a new skill. Often, they’re supporting from the sidelines, but in Tennessee, NICA is doing more than inviting parents to watch their students succeed— we’re bringing them along with us on the trail!