Ride for the Rockies
Wondering what it's like to ride for The Rockies? The following questions and answers will give you an idea of what it's like to join the team.
What towns do The Rockies cover?
If your child lives or goes to school in Boonton, Denville, Kinnelon, Lincoln Park, Montville, Mountain Lakes, Parsippany, Pequannock, Riverdale, Rockaway, or Wharton...then we're your team!
Hmm. I don't see my town there. Am I out of luck?
Nope! Check out the league's team map to find the team closest to you. If you don't see your town listed, give us a shout--we can likely point you in the right direction.
What ages are eligible for the team?
Kids in grades 6 through 12 can join The Rockies.
Can I try it out?
Yup! If you sign a waiver, you can join the team for 3 rides (that goes for kids and potential coaches). Preseason, which runs from mid-October through the start of the regular season in December, is a great time to try riding with The Rockies.
Is NICA co-ed?
Absolutely! As a matter of fact, the league (and The Rockies) would love to see more female shredders out there. NICA's GRiT program is specifically designed to welcome female riders to the sport.
Is experience necessary?
No. We do, however, ask that your child can confidently ride a bicycle (including the basics of shifting and braking). Also worth keeping in mind, mountain biking is an action sport--we'll be riding rocky, challenging trails (which is half the fun, right!?)
My child loves to ride bikes. But I'm not sure if he/she would enjoy racing. Is racing mandatory?
Absolutely not! Some kids enjoy racing, while others simply enjoy the camaraderie, exercise, or plain old fun that comes with riding. Just keep in mind we are not a bike club--we are training to race (even if your child chooses not to). That means working hard at practice, focus, and good sportsmanship.
Is a mountain bike necessary?
Yes, you will need your own mountain bike. Northern NJ is known for its rocky, tough trails. So a mountain bike is absolutely necessary. Don't have a bike? No worries. The team has several loaner bikes you can use to try-it-out. Additionally, the league offers season-long loaners if buying a bike is a financial burden.
Will any mountain bike do?
This is a tough one. There are a lot of bikes out there that are designed to look like mountain bikes, but can't hold up to the demands of the sport. A good rule of thumb: if a bike shop sold you a mountain bike, you're likely good to go. If it was purchased from a big box store, it may not be safe for riding on trails.
When does your season run?
Preseason starts in October. This is a great time to try riding with the Rockies. Our regular season runs from December to June.
What does the practice schedule look like?
Throughout the coldest months, we try to get in one ride per weekend, weather permitting. Additionally, weather permitting, the team has occasional night rides for those with appropriate lights. Once we change the clocks in the Spring, our season ramps up and we have two weeknight practices in addition to a weekend ride.
What if your practice conflicts with another sport my child plays?
We realize kids are busy and have other commitments. But we're flexible. All we ask is that your child makes to practice when possible.
Where do you practice?
The majority of our practices are Tourne County Park. On weekends, we frequently ride at other local (and not-so-local) parks.
When and where are the races?
Racing season starts in April and runs through June. We participate in 5 races that are spread around the state. For the two southern-most races, most student-athletes and their families stay in a hotel
Cool sports like mountain biking are always expensive. How much is it to join?
Our league frequently claims to be the best deal in youth sports -- and we agree! For approximately $300, your child gets over 6 months of riding and racing. Please don't let finances dictate your decision...scholarships are available.
Sounds great! How do I sign up!
It's easy! Give Tom, our Team Director, a shout and he'll send you the sign-up link.