Who has had the most significant impact on your sporting life?
For many, it goes back to their first positive coaching experience. This trend includes many Olympic-level athletes as well as many coaches. As USA Cycling continues to evolve its coaching development and education program, a primary goal is to increase the number of positive impactful experiences people have in bike racing, especially at the grassroots level where it matters the most. This means working to increase the accessibility of quality education and development opportunities while coupling them with mentorship and support at all levels.
Quality coaching is a time-intensive, emotionally charged, and constantly engaging role. Having a positive impact on athletes isn't easy and isn't something to be taken for granted.
So on this #NationalCoachesDay, don't just reflect on who has been impactful in your life; reach out and thank them for the experiences they have provided you.