From turning pedals to turning pages: How NICA inspired Aria Koberg to write a cycling-themed children’s book
From first ride to author and founder, Aria Koberg’s NICA journey shows how mountain biking builds confidence, community, and opportunity.
Unlocking the art of sports photography for NICA athletes: A collaboration with Fujifilm
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.
Frame the Ride: see NICA’s 2025 Regional event through athletes’ eyes
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.
Exponential Impact: A Delaware Team Story
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.
Marion’s Story: from NICA Parent to Lifelong Mountain Biker and Community Advocate
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.
National Trails Day: North Carolina League’s Trailblazing TTC Impact
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.
Generations of Trail Stewards: Building Community, One Trail at a Time
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.
From the Racecourse to Retail: NICA Student Athletes Launch RideLens Sunglasses
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.
Moms Just Wanna Have Fun(damentals)
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!
Finley Scott + IICL mental health campaign: How NICA student-athletes are changing the narrative surrounding mental health
Youth sports and physical wellness are clearly connected. But what about mental health? The topic of mental wellness in youth sports is often overlooked, and when it does come up, it can be tough to talk about. Idaho Interscholastic Cycling League student-athlete Finley Scott spent her senior year in 2023 trying to change that narrative…and what started as Finley’s incredible passion project has now evolved into a full-blown, athlete-led initiative that raises awareness and tackles mental health stigma head-on.