Tarpon Coast MTB Team

As parents, we all want our kids to grow up strong, confident, and healthy. The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) offers a unique opportunity for middle and high school students (grades 6–12) to experience the fun of mountain biking while gaining life-long health benefits that extend far beyond the trail.

Strong Bodies, Active Lifestyles

Cycling is one of the best ways to keep kids active. Unlike high-impact sports, mountain biking builds cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, balance, and flexibility without putting unnecessary stress on growing joints. With climbs, sprints, and technical trails, every ride is a full-body workout that feels more like an adventure than exercise.

A Boost for Mental Health

Adolescence can be stressful. The good news? Time on the trail is proven to help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Riding in the fresh air, surrounded by nature, provides a healthy outlet for managing life’s ups and downs. Through NICA’s supportive team environment, student-athletes gain confidence, resilience, and the ability to handle challenges both on and off the bike.

Healthy Habits That Last

NICA doesn’t just promote fitness—it encourages lifestyle habits that stick. From learning the importance of proper nutrition and hydration to understanding the value of rest and recovery, athletes develop routines that support their overall well-being. Because cycling is a sport that can be enjoyed at any age, these habits are more likely to carry into adulthood.

A Safe, Supportive Community

Unlike some youth sports, NICA’s philosophy ensures that every athlete has a place on the team—there’s no bench. Every rider participates, and every rider matters. Coaches are trained, background-checked, and licensed to prioritize both physical and emotional safety. Parents can feel confident knowing their child is in a safe, structured environment that values encouragement as much as competition.

More Than Just Riding

Through programs like GRiT (Girls Riding Together), Teen Trail Corps, and NICA Adventure, NICA helps kids develop character, responsibility, and a connection to the outdoors. Athletes learn to give back by maintaining trails, respecting nature, and supporting their peers—lessons that reach well beyond the bike.

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A Healthy Future, One Ride at a Time

When your child joins NICA, they’re not just signing up for a sport—they’re joining a community dedicated to helping them thrive. Mountain biking with NICA builds strong bodies, healthy minds, and confident young people who are prepared for challenges in sport and in life.

👉 Ready to give your child the NICA experience?
Join Tarpon Coast MTB and the Florida Interscholastic Cycling League for Season 7 and watch them grow both on and off the bike. Subscribe to our newsletter below to stay up to date – registration opens October 1st!