Announcements:
GET REGISTERED TO COACH
Registration for the 2026 season will open March 1, 2026. Get registered, Get involved, Grow your community!
What is required of coaches?
Buy-in: The mission of the Black Swamp Riders is character development applying mountain biking as a tool for that development. This is for the fast kids, slow kids and everyone in between.
Certification: Our Coaches are certified through Michigan Interscholastic Cycling Association.
Training: The team provides training so that even novices coaches can feel comfortable.
Safety Procedures: Understanding and following the team's safety procedures is a necessary component of coaching. We have a large team and take athlete safety seriously in an inherently risky sport.
Steps to Certification
1) Register through the MiSCA registration system (CCN), submit a payment and information for a background check.
2) Complete the required training online (a checklist is available on the MiSCA website and CCN). Make sure you use the same email for all training registrations, as that is your identifier as the league tracks your progress.
Mountain Bike Training
Local training days for coaches will be announced in early 2026.
COACH INFORMATION:
Practice Management
We use a race plate check-in system. Registered coaches and riders will need to attach a race plate to their bikes at the beginning of practice and return it at the end. Names will be on the front and emergency info on the back. It will allow coaches to quickly see who is in their groups, ensure everyone returns, and provide quick responses to incidents.
Oak Openings Trail Emergency Action Plan
Evacuation Routes, Weather Response, Nearest Hospital, Etc.
Ottawa Jermain Trail Emergency Action Plan
Evacuation Routes, Weather Response, Nearest Hospital, Etc.
Concussion Protocol
Head injuries are a possibility in sports, including MTB. Coaches need to familiarize themselves with how to respond.
Basic Bike Handling Skills
We have a basic set of skills every kid should learn. This is a good breakdown of tips to share and things to look for as the riders develop.