Cassie Smith lives in Morgantown, West Virginia, and has been an avid mountain biker for almost three decades. As the West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League Director, her passion has become her vocation.
The West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League is a 501(c)(3) and one of 31 other leagues across the country. Each league exists to develop youth (middle and high school) and build strong bodies, strong minds, and strong character in student-athletes.
West Virginia’s cycling league became a state league in 2017, with 14 teams throughout the state. There are plenty of opportunities to explore, mature, and participate in several mountain biking races within the league.
Smith has been one of the leading charges for bringing the NICA League to West Virginia.
“Mountain biking gave me a lot of direction in my life,” said Smith. “We needed something in West Virginia for our kids. In our first meeting, we had 60 people show up.”
Smith has seen firsthand how mountain biking can be a positive force in someone’s life. Now, she has the chance to spread that positive influence among young people throughout the Mountain State.
The cycling leagues desire to become a household name through the state. The chapter transcends socioeconomic challenges and diversity with an integrated approach to cycling.
“Every West Virginia teen who desires [it] should be able to participate in our league.”
There isn’t a single student or participant in the West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League who sits on the bench. As a result, every child has the opportunity to learn, earn points, develop skills, and be acclimated to the outdoors.
Smith is dedicated to giving back to the cycling community that, in her own words, “has given so much to my family and me.” If you’d like to keep up with Cassie and the West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League, you can visit www.westvirginiamtb.org.
PWV QUICK BITS | CASSIE SMITH
- RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek
- PIECE OF ADVICE: “Pick something that you’re passionate about, and find a team that is as passionate as you are,” advised Smith.