Missoula Mammoths Frequently Asked Questions:
We’ve done our best to write up all the frequently asked questions our team and league. If you have any other questions feel free to email us!
Q: When and how do I register for Mammoths?
A: All the information you need is found on the Registration 2024 information page. Please also follow the Mammoths on Facebook or Instagram for regular updates.
Q: What age does my rider need to be to join Mammoths?
A: The Montana NICA League is open to riders entering the 6th – 12th grade in the Fall. That means the youngest riders will sign up in May when they are finishing up 5th grade, so that they can ride as incoming 6th graders over the summer.
Q: Does my rider need prior experience riding a mountain bike to join?
A: There are no try-outs and everyone is welcome on our team, from newbies to seasoned pros. We do our best to uphold the NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) Mission (build strong minds, bodies, character, and communities through cycling), Vision (every youth is empowered to be part of a thriving and engaged cycling community), and Values (fun, inclusivity, equity, respect, community). You can read more about NICA’s philosophy on the NICA website.
Q: What are the season dates and what day and times do we practice?
A: Our first practice is usually held right after July 4th and we end the season in early October. We practice Monday and Thursday from 5:30-7:30pm. Please see our Schedule page for all the specific dates and details.
Q: What are the approximate costs of participation?
A: Please see our 2024 Mammoths Team Expectations handout for detailed breakdown of 2024 fees. Scholarships are available! Please contact us for more information, or find the two links for two types of scholarships in 2024 on the Registration 2024 information page.
Q: I missed new athlete registration but my athlete really wants to ride- what options do I have?
A: Registration for new athletes in 2024 starts May 1st 2024. Get all the details about Registration 2024 here.
[Archived answer from May 2023 which we will recycle in May 2024: First, please take a look at the 2023 Registration page- if it shows that registration is still open, follow instructions there! If that registration page states that registration is now closed, please contact us to see if there is still an opportunity to be added to our waitlist- we might have space, but we also might not. Sometimes demand for our program exceeds space available- the size limit to our team exists as we have to maintain safe ratios of kids to coaches, as well as adhere to our public lands permits. Email us and we’ll take a look at it together!]
Q: Where is practice usually held?
A: Thanks to our wonderful community and public lands access, Mammoths are able to practice at various locations in the Missoula area, including Marshall Mountain, Blue Mountain, Pattee Canyon, and Mt. Jumbo.
Q: What are the expectations for joining the team?
A: At the most basic; our student athletes must attend half of all practices and come to at least one race, they must arrive at practice on time with working equipment and appropriate clothing for the weather, and they must adhere to the league’s Code of Conduct. Please see our 2024 Mammoths Team Expectations handout for all the details.
Q: Is my rider required to race?
A: We encourage all riders to give racing a try- it is an experience like no other! Most riders will race at least once during the season. However, riders are permitted to opt out of the races and instead attend at least one race day as a race volunteer to fulfill the race day team requirement- and they’ll want to be there to cheer for their teammates!
Q: Is the team really competitive and focused all on the races?
The Missoula Mammoths has all sorts of athletes on the team, from mellow weekend riders to very competitive nationally ranked racers. Yes, racing is an inherently competitive endeavor, but the ultimate priority of all NICA activities is upholding the core values of “Fun, Inclusivity, Equity, Respect, and Community”. Our Montana NICA league is organized as; about two months of practices followed by about five weeks of practices during the league’s race series. Mammoth’s team pride and sportsmanship is legendary- we offer positive support and cheer for ALL riders on ALL teams! Even if your rider chooses not to race they will still have a great time challenging themselves and supporting their teammates throughout the season.
Q: Is mountain biking safe?
A: Mountain biking, like many other sports, is an inherently dangerous activity. Our coaches are trained to help riders learn to manage risk when riding and to respond appropriately when accidents happen. Please see NICA’s risk policy for more information. All coaches are required to have extensive first aid and concussion training. Many coaches also have additional wilderness first aid training and certifications.
Q: What equipment is needed to participate?
A: All student-athletes must have an appropriate mountain bike for XC style riding with a well-fitted helmet and appropriate clothing for the activity. All riders need a way to carry their own hydration, snacks, and tire-repair kit. If you have questions or would like advice regarding equipment or maintenance, please reach out as we may be able to assist! We also have some equipment available for our scholarship athletes.
Q: What type of bike does my student-athlete need?
A: NICA is a cross-country mountain bike team, so practices and races will be oriented around that style of riding. The Mammoths are not a road, cyclocross, enduro, or downhill team, but riders of all persuasions are welcome to ride xc-style with us! You don’t need a fancy new bike, but you do need one in good working order so please be sure to get your bike tuned up (either from a local bike shop or a very competent amateur parent or friend!) before the start of the season.
Q: How are athletes divided into riding groups?
A: The Team Director and Head Coaches will place riders into groups based on ability level, experience, and rider age. These groups may shift over the course of the season. Please reach out if you have any special concerns or questions about your athlete’s riding group.
Q: Is the Mammoths team recognized as an official Montana High School Association (Letter) sport?
A: No, we are not an official school sport or club and your athletes cannot earn a formal Varsity letter from their school, but our team’s high school component is organized around the public high school districts. Homeschool and private school riders are welcome.
Q: I’m interested in becoming a coach or ride assistant for the Mammoths- how can I get involved?
A: Great! Our low athlete-coach ratio is part of what makes our program so special. We welcome coaches and ride assistants of all ability levels and will get you all the training you need. Email us for more info!