Delaware Interscholastic Cycling League launches season with statewide programs and events

WILMINGTON- The Delaware Interscholastic Cycling League (DICL), a youth development agency, is gearing up for another exciting season of mountain biking programs for students across the state. 

Established in 2022, the DICL is a chapter of the National Interscholastic Cycling Association and is focused on providing a supportive, inclusive environment for young riders, regardless of experience or skill level.

The league’s mission is simple, to build community through mountain biking.

“There are no tryouts, no pressure to perform, and no one sits on the bench,” wrote Charles, DICL’s league director.

 “Everyone is invited and encouraged to participate.”

The league’s emphasis is on youth development rather than competition, ensuring that each rider feels empowered and welcomed to join in the fun.

Since it began, the Delaware League has experienced serious growth, serving 75 families in 2024. The program is open to students in grades 5-12 and includes both school-based and community-based teams. The league is actively working to expand its reach, with a particular focus on developing more school-based teams.

The DICL offers a variety of core initiatives designed to foster teamwork and community engagement. Among the league’s standout programs are Girls Riding Together (GRiT) and Teen Trail Corps. Both of these initiatives are designed to provide additional resources and activities for young riders, encouraging participation from diverse groups.

Team registration for the 2025 season is currently open, with rider registration beginning on April 1st. Practices will start on July 1st, and the league’s events will take place in the late summer and fall.

“We are always looking for new coaches, riders, and volunteers,” Charles wrote,  “It’s a great opportunity to get involved with a program that is making a real impact on young people’s lives.”

For those looking to test the waters before committing to the league, DICL is offering a number of “Try-It” events around the state. These free, public events allow participants to experience mountain biking in a safe, controlled environment.

Riders and families can sign up to be a part of team events,  DICL also offers several public events for newcomers to try mountain biking in a safe, supportive environment.

One  upcoming event will take place in partnership with DSG House of Sport, where participants can test out mountain biking at the store in just a few weeks. Other events will be held throughout New Castle County, including a collaboration with Delaware Nature Society and the Wilmington Grand Prix.

DICL will also be offering public summer camps this year, including a girls-only “Try-It” camp and a co-ed, week-long day camp in partnership with the JCC.

More information about these initiatives can be found on the National Mountain Bike Association’s website at grit and teen trail corps.

More information on registration, events, and how to get involved, visit the DICL website or reach out directly to [email protected].

Check out a list of all their events HERE.