Meet 2022 Junior Club of the Year, Team Velosport

Check out what club owner, Jeff Shein has to say about his incredible staff, directors, athletes and volunteers that led this team to victory this year.

https://usacycling.org/article/get-to-know-2022-junior-club-of-the-year-team-velosport 

What advice do you have for a new club?

1. Make it fun! Lots of rides in fun (and safe) places. Keep rides no-drop and appropriate (skill level, speed, distance) for the members. Have a fun mini challenge for each ride (like a hill climb) so everyone gets a sense of accomplishment and success.
2. Do other fun stuff as a group, like rides in a different discipline or off the bike stuff (BBQ, pool or beach party, etc)
3. Participate at race events as a group to make it a friendly, family atmosphere
4. Find the best way to communicate with current members (athletes and parents). Group texts, facebook private group, email, etc. Keep it active with at least weekly notes on ride / race plans
5. No "pressure" or stress on the athlete (especially younger ones age 10-14). Words of encouragement only!
6. Spread the workload among the parents! Delegate tasks like sourcing jerseys, communications, sponsorship, administration, raceday support. Too many tasks will burn someone out quickly.
7. Get financial support from a city government, local bike shop or some local businesses. Seek out some product sponsorships from the cycling industry. A bake sale or other fund raiser could work, but many people are busy and don't want to be bothered.
8. Promote your club through social media and/or a website
9. Hire a coach if you have athletes who are more advanced / passionate about racing (or if the athlete's skills exceed that of the parents!)
10. Have a pathway for the future. Pass the torch of club leadership on to parents of the younger riders before your kid is ready to age-out of juniors!
11. Follow all safety guidelines (have liability insurance, be safesport certified, follow all road rules on team rides, etc.)
12. This is worth mentioning again... HAVE FUN! If it's not fun, it won't last.