CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Ross County Mountain Bike Club is part of the Ohio Interscholastic Cycling League, which is one of the newest chapters of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA).

“We’re getting more kids on bikes” is the motto of the Ohio Interscholastic Cycling League. NICA has 5 core values that drive everything they do: fun, inclusivity, equity, respect, and community. 

NICA was started in California in 2009 with the intention of getting more kids on mountain bikes, and quickly spread to several other states. One by one, the league has expanded, including Ohio for this inaugural season in 2021. Checking out their website, you’ll quickly discover the goal is to get kids on a bike and everyone is included. “No tryouts. No cuts. No bench. Everybody rides.” This phrase is proudly displayed on the website. From the Ohio Interscholastic Cycling League website you learn the same thing. “With NICA, our mission is to build strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling. Our Vision is that every youth is empowered to be part of a thriving and engaged cycling community.”

I spoke with Rich Lewis, who is one of the coaches. Here’s what he had to say: “When I found out about the existence of a high school league, I knew it was something I would be involved in. No such thing was available to us when I was in school, and what an excellent opportunity this is!” Reflecting on his high school days, Lewis continued, “Being someone who played traditional ‘ball sports’ growing up, I valued my experience on those teams, but the reality is that very few of us ever play any of those sports past our graduation. One of the most exciting things about this program is that not only is it a great way to learn to be part of a team and practice bicycling skills in competition, but it’s a great way to get kids outside and enjoying nature. Most importantly to me, though, is that it can position a kid for a lifetime of cycling enjoyment.”

The main focus of NICA is that of inclusion. You’ll likely hear anyone associated with the program say, “everyone rides, there is no bench.” As with any sport, you’re bound to attract the athletic kids and the competitive kids. But the format also encourages participation from students of any level, beginner to advanced. The idea is to create an environment where all are welcome, and all can learn and progress in a controlled setting.

To learn more about the Ross County Mountain Bike Club, search Facebook or online for the Ohio Mountain Bike League website where you can request information.

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