Pre-Season Prep & Registration
Youth cycling teams don’t just happen. Someone has to build the machine, get kids signed up, organize coaches, and make sure things are in place before a single pedal turns. That’s where the Team Director comes in.
If you’re in this role (or thinking about it), here’s the deal: The season doesn’t start when the first practice happens. It starts weeks—sometimes months—before that, with recruiting, organizing, and setting up a smooth registration process. Get this part right, and everything else runs easier.
This is Part 1 of 2, covering what a Team Director handles before the season starts.
1. Pre-Season Promotions & Recruiting
A team needs riders and coaches. If you don’t do the legwork here, you’ll be scrambling later.
- Run promo events. Host fun rides, hit up school groups, set up a booth at local events.
- Capture leads. Got someone interested? Get their name, email, and phone number. Follow up.
- Recruit coaches. More riders = more coaches needed. Start early.
- Make it easy for parents. If signing up feels confusing, they’ll walk away. Keep it simple.
2. Hosting Key Pre-Season Meetings
Before kids hit the trails, families need to know what they’re signing up for. A good meeting now saves a million emails later.
New Family & Rider Meeting (Online or In-Person)
- What is the program? How does it work?
- What does it cost? What gear is needed?
- How do they sign up (PitZone, TeamSnap, etc.)?
- Answer every question now—it’ll save you from 10 different “Hey, how do I…?” messages later.
Returning Coaches & Families Meeting
- What’s changing this season? Any new league rules?
- Who’s coming back? Who’s moving up? Any gaps to fill?
- Reinforce team culture and expectations.
3. Registration & Roster Management
Once you’ve got riders and coaches lined up, it’s time to get them on the books.
- Pre-registration: Who’s back? Who’s new? Who’s aging up?
- Track interest: Keep a list—no one falls through the cracks.
- Send invites & reminders: TeamSnap, PitZone— stay on top of it.
- Coaches matter too: Make sure their certifications are good to go.
4. Communication is Everything
People need clear info. Parents, riders, coaches—if they don’t know what’s going on, that’s on you.
- Email updates: What to expect, key dates, how to register.
- New family meetings (yes, mentioning this again—because they’re that important).
- Social media & website: Keep them updated so people aren’t always asking the same questions.
5. Scheduling & Season Kickoff
Once the roster is set, lock in logistics:
- Practice locations & permits: Get these secured before the season starts.
- Gear check: Who needs what? Do you have enough loaner bikes?
- First official team meeting: Make sure every rider and coach knows the plan for the season.
6. Wrap-Up & What’s Next
The best seasons start before the first ride. Nail pre-season prep, and the rest of the year runs smoother.
Next up: Part 2—managing the season, race-day execution, and keeping the team rolling. Stay tuned.
