WITH OUR NICA PROGRAM, NOBODY RIDES THE BENCH.
PROGRAM Overview
The Hill Country Collective NICA Mountain Bike Team gives 5th–12th grade students the chance to ride, learn, and grow in a supportive, no-bench environment where everyone participates. With experienced coaching, fun and challenging trails, and a team culture built on friendship and encouragement, riders of all levels — from beginners to experienced mountain bikers — can build skills, confidence, and resilience. Whether you’re here to explore, improve, or even race, NICA is where every student belongs on the bike.
* Must know how to comfortably ride a bike (no prior mountain bike experience required)
Rider benefits:
- Develop cycling endurance and technical skills
- Build confidence through personal progress and achievement
- Improve overall mental health (increased focus, reduce stress and more)
- Develop teamwork and leadership on and off the bike.
- Create lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging
- Support community initiatives including trail building
- Gain racing experience at NICA events (registration fees included)
- Encourage outdoor adventure and a love for the trail
HCC's unique benefits for our NICA team members (requires proof of membership):
- 25% off select Trek & Specialized MTB bikes and MTB framesets
- 25%-30% off select Trek & Specialized MTB shoes
- 25%-30% off select Trek & Specialized helmets
- 25%-30% off select Trek & Specialized accessories
- 50%* off HCC’s Speed Shop Members only Marketplace of refurbished bikes and bike parts (*average discount)
- 40% off HCC’s Speed Shop services and bike detailing
- 40% off HCC’s Speed Shop bike fit services
- 40% off HCC’s Speed Shop bike chain waxing services
- 25%-30% off special team deals on nutrition, supplies and accessories form many brands*
- Included Speed Shop 24-48 Hour turnaround
Pricing:
HCC Fee: $350 total for season
NICA Fee: $350 total for season
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!
Total season cost is $700 (registration is a two step process – don't worry, we'll step you through the process) however the value is worth substantially more:
HCC fee value:
Team jersey (enduro style) $65
T-shirt $35
Technology fee $25
6 months of licensed MTB coaching $3,000
Loaner bikes & equipment $1,500
Financial burden scholarships $350 (up to)
Major discounts included (see list)
NICA fee value:
NICA National Membership $50
Texas league membership $60
Rider insurance $30+
Six professionally produced events $300
NICA self-paced challenges $100
Skills clinic $100
Everything you need to know about our nica program
WHAT IS NICA?
The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) develops mountain biking programs for students in 5th–12th grades. Its mission is to build strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling. With leagues nationwide, NICA offers coaching, races, and programs that are inclusive, fun, and focused on helping every student thrive on and off the bike. Learn more about NICA Texas.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Our NICA team is open to boys and girls in 5th through 12th grades from the Dripping Springs, Wimberly, Blanco, and Johnson City school districts! Riders of all levels — beginners, intermediate, and advanced — are welcome, whether you're interested in racing or simply enjoying the ride with others your age.
WHEN IS THE NICA SEASON?
The Texas NICA season runs from November through May, with registration opening October 15, Practices start November 1 (Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, and the race series runs from early January through late April with six races total, wrapping up with end-of-season celebrations in May. Click here to view NICA's season schedule.
WHAT LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
The HCC NICA+ program is open to riders of nearly all levels. You don’t need prior mountain biking experience BUT you must already know how to ride a bike comfortably. Our coaches help beginning riders learn the basics and give experienced riders the tools to keep progressing.
where do we practice?
We’ve worked tirelessly to map out the best trails for training and creating great ride experiences. Our training locations include Circle C (South Austin Trail Network – SATN), the Belterra trail system, Reimer’s Ranch Park, and other amazing spots from time to time. Practices are on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30–7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Registered riders and parents will be set up with Team Snap for detailed schedules and team-related communications.
IS RACING A REQUIREMENT?
Racing isn’t required, but the NICA registration fee includes entry to all six NICA races in the season. These events are a highlight — a chance for riders and families to connect, cheer, and be part of the NICA community. Whether you race or just come to support, these events are some of the most fun and rewarding parts of the season.