About

West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League

About WVICL

We are a chapter of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) - a California-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. As one of 31 leagues across the country, we organize a mountain bike racing league for middle and high school student athletes. Above all, we consider ourselves a youth development organization, whose goal it is to build strong body, strong mind and strong character in our student athletes, with an unwavering focus on inclusivity and equality in everything we do.

Our Vision Our Mission Our Core Principles League Staff Contact Us

Our Vision

Enable every West Virginia teen to strengthen body, mind and character in the most equal and inclusive way through the life-long sport of cycling.

We want to become a household name in the state. We envision becoming so integrated into middle and high schools, that students could not imagine what life was like before interscholastic cycling. Every West Virginia teen who so desires should be able to participate in our league.

West Virginia consists of a vast spectrum of socioeconomic neighborhoods, our goal is to provide students from across the state with access to the league and play an active role in overcoming any financial and logistical barriers. And of course, no one sits on the bench, everyone races and earns points for their team.

We are a youth development organization that places the long-term health and well being of the student athlete above all else. We hope to infuse in our student athletes a passion for an active and healthy lifestyle that stays with them for the rest of their lives.

Our Mission

Establish a fun, enduring and relevant 6th to 12th grade mountain bike program to improve the lives of West Virginia’s teens and their families.

Stability

We are here to stay and thus our business practices matter. We will follow sound business policy, leadership and financial accountability and responsibility.

Relevant

Having a presence across the state, and continuously growing our number of student athletes for the first 5 years of operation, to the point where we need to split into two regions to accommodate all racers.

Improve

Our organization is focused on making a difference in the lives of West Virginia’s teens and their families. That concept of making a difference is what inspires our leaders and coaches; it’s not about today’s win or competition, it’s about making a difference – one kid at a time.

Our Core Principles

EqualityAll student-athletes are treated equally. Team scores are a combination points scored by both boys and girls.
InclusivenessAll student-athletes participate 100% of the time. No one is “benched” and everyone is encouraged to try racing, irrespective of how fast – or slow – they may be.
Strong BodyNICA emphasizes wellness through lifestyle, nutrition and exercise. Improving physical fitness and overall wellness are at the center of NICA’s training and education.
Strong MindNICA student-athletes are students first. Our program encourages academic excellence.
Strong CharacterAll student-athletes are expected to work hard, respect others and give back to their communities. Our programs encourage and provide opportunities for trail stewardship, bicycle advocacy and mentoring.

They guide every decision we make, how we act and conduct our league.

League Staff

Cassie Smith

League Director

Bradley Schmalzer

Chief Referee

Dr. Stephen “Doc” Worden

WVICL League Treasurer / League Coach Supporter / Team Coach

Phil Waidner

Camp Director

Zach Adams

Venue Development

Eric Hawkinberry

Try It Program Manager

Joe Marra

Race Director

Jessica Harmening

Director of Coach and Team Development

Kristen Dieffenbach

Director of Coaching

Sue Haywood

Coach Supporter

Danny Pendry,

Coach Supporter

Julie Hawkinberry

Volunteer Coordinator

Jessy Coffman

Feed Zone Manager

Mia Fox

GRiT Coordinator

Keith Fulton

Chief Course Setter