About the Team
- Who are the Tuscaloosa Mountain Flyers?
The Tuscaloosa Mountain Flyers is a co-ed mountain biking team for students in grades 6-12. We focus on fostering a love for cycling, teamwork, and outdoor adventure. Our season runs from December 1 to May. - What is the purpose of the team?
Our goal is to get more kids on bikes and encourage both competitive and recreational mountain biking. We provide a positive, supportive environment for all skill levels.
Getting Started
- How can my child join the team?
New riders are welcome! Contact us through our website for details on joining the team and participating in our upcoming season. - What equipment does my child need?
Riders need a mountain bike, helmet, gloves, eye protection, and closed-toe shoes. A full list of required equipment is available on our Equipment page. - Is prior mountain biking experience required?
No experience is necessary! Our coaching staff trains all riders in essential mountain biking skills and techniques, following NICA’s training guidelines.
Team Practices and Schedule
- When are team practices held?
Practices take place twice a week—Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons, typically at Sokol Park. - When is the racing season?
The race season usually starts in February and goes through early May. Check our Schedule page for specific dates. - What can I expect on race weekends?
Races take place on Saturdays for middle school riders and Sundays for high school riders. Families should prepare for travel, as race locations vary across Alabama.
What Parents Should Know
- How can I support my child’s involvement with the team? Parents play a vital role by encouraging practice attendance, helping with equipment maintenance, and attending races to cheer on the team. We will set up a volunteer page for parents to help with set up, tear down, and supplies/food during race weekends.
- What’s the time commitment for practices and races? Practices are held twice a week—Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Races take place primarily on weekends from February to May, often requiring travel across Alabama. It’s recommended to plan ahead for race weekends.
- Do I need to provide transportation for my child? Yes, families are responsible for transporting riders to practices and race events. Carpooling with other team families can help make travel easier.
- How does the team handle safety? Safety is our top priority. We follow strict protocols, including mandatory helmet use, pre-ride bike checks, and NICA guidelines for on-the-bike skills and safe riding practices. All coaches are trained in first aid, and volunteer coaches undergo background checks.
- How can I stay informed about team updates? We regularly communicate through this website. You can sign up for updates on our homepage to stay informed about practice schedules, race dates, and any other important announcements. Likewise, we run a GroupMe for quick, short communication as needed.
- What volunteer opportunities are available? Parents can volunteer to help with race day logistics and assist coaches during practices. Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with other parents and support your child’s team experience.
Student Racers: NICA Skills and Strength Training
- What skills do student racers develop? While we are under the Alabama Cycling Association (ACA), NICA has an excellent skills program that emphasizes fundamental mountain biking techniques like braking, cornering, climbing, and bike-body separation. These skills are essential for both safety and performance on the trail.
- How are skills taught to student racers? Coaches follow a structured "Tell it, Show it, Do it, Review it" approach to skill instruction, allowing students to build confidence progressively. Sessions incorporate practical drills, cone courses, and safe practice environments to reinforce each skill.
- Should I strength train? It will help! The strength training program focuses on building endurance, flexibility, and core strength to improve overall performance and reduce the risk of injury. Exercises are tailored to support the physical demands of mountain biking.
Racing and Rules
- Who can participate in races?
All riders are encouraged to participate, regardless of experience or skill level. The ACA’s inclusive structure allows everyone to race. - What are the ACA competition rules?
The Alabama Cycling Association (ACA) Rule Book covers racing rules, penalties, equipment requirements, and more. Key areas include conduct, safety protocols, and team eligibility. View the rulebook on our Rider Rules page. - How are races scored?
Points are awarded based on race placements. Teams are ranked by cumulative scores in each division, with individual and team awards given at each event and the end of the season.
Coaching and Volunteers
- Are there opportunities to volunteer?
Yes, we welcome parent volunteers and community members to support the team. Contact us for more details on how to get involved. - What qualifications do coaches need?
Coaches must meet ACA certification standards, which vary by experience level. All coaches undergo background checks and training.
