On-the-Bike 101
NICA’s On-the-Bike (OTB) 101 course is required for all Level 2 and 3 coaches. OTB 101 introduces the essential mountain bike skills that student-athletes need, while also helping coaches learn how to effectively teach these skills in a youth development setting. Its primary function is not to teach coaches themselves to be better riders; the primary outcome is for coaches to gain a full understanding of how to deliver impactful, competent skills instruction.
OTB 101 consists of three parts:
- An online (classroom) OTB 101 course, located in the NICA Education Center
- An in-person 3-hour skills course hosted by league coach supporter trainers
- A resource suite including a 46-page digital manual (located in the the NICA Education Center for coaches who complete the course) and pocket-sized coaching field guide
On-the-Bike 201
NICA’s OTB 201 course is a five-hour, in-person intermediate-to-advanced skills training clinic that builds on the foundational skills of OTB 101. In addition to learning how to effectively teach new skills, coaches participate in hands-on practice instruction in the form of “teach backs” to their fellow clinic participants. Coaches receive a pocket-sized field guide and a digital skills manual.
OTB 201 is not required for coach licensure, but offers a great opportunity for coaches looking to expand their coaching and facilitation skills. The course counts as 5 continuing education units (CEUs).
Take an On-the-Bike skills coaching clinic
On-the-Bike skills clinics are scheduled and hosted by each NICA league. Look for your league’s OTB clinic schedule on your league website, or reach out to your league director. Most clinics are hosted in the preseason, but schedules may vary.