Safety is our top priority, and risk management is the foundation of all our team activities. Our goal is to provide the physical and emotional safety necessary for a thriving, successful, and rewarding mountain biking experience.
Mountain biking is inherently risky, and eliminating all risk would also remove the fun and the benefits of the sport. While we cannot remove every risk, we can manage it effectively. The following outlines how we approach safety for all student-athletes and coaches.
Physical & Emotional Safety Plan
Ensuring the safety of all participants is our primary focus. A safe environment allows student-athletes to grow, develop confidence, and enjoy the sport fully.
- Licensed Coaches: All team coaches are NICA-licensed, which includes a background check and specialized training to protect student-athletes from physical and emotional harm.
- Education & Awareness: Anyone working directly with student-athletes during practices, races, or team events must hold a NICA coaching license.
- Occasional Adult Volunteers: Adults may participate without a license once, provided they sign a waiver and participation agreement outlining their responsibilities.
Resources & Policies
NICA’s Risk Management plan is comprehensive. Key policies we follow include:
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Athletes are encouraged to ride within their limits, and coaches model safe behavior at all times. Helmets are required anytime a rider is on a bike — no exceptions.
Risk Awareness
We educate athletes on risk management so they can make informed decisions on the trail. While we take every precaution, mountain biking will always involve some level of risk. If this is not acceptable to you, this team may not be the right fit for your young athlete.
Our commitment is to keep every participant as safe as possible while still providing the excitement, growth, and learning opportunities that make mountain biking a unique and rewarding experience.
On the map with NICA. On the move in Florida.
Tarpon Coast MTB Team 