The recent Cycling Coaching Clinic hosted in Behchoko, N’dilo, and Yellowknife was a remarkable event, set against the stunning backdrop of the Northwest Territories during a lovely Fall weekend. This clinic brought together an enthusiastic group of individuals eager to enhance their coaching skills and promote cycling in the region.
Leading the clinic was Peter Glassford, a knowledgeable Learning Facilitator from Ontario, who shared his extensive expertise in both the theoretical and practical aspects of cycling coaching. His engaging teaching style ensured that participants gained valuable insights into the sport.
“It was a pleasure to travel to the Northwest Territories to facilitate this weekend of coaching practice and knowledge sharing with 6 coaches who reside in NWT. With the addition of the NCCP coaching credential, these coaches have taken an important step toward building safe and effective cycling programs in the NWT.” – Peter Glassford R.Kin
A total of six dedicated coaches participated in the workshop, which proved to be a resounding success. They were actively engaged in learning essential skills such as starting and stopping techniques, navigating tight and wide corners, mastering straight-line biking, hopping, gear changes, and much more. The clinic also included a variety of fun games designed to engage participants of all ages, making the learning experience enjoyable for everyone involved.
This initiative is a significant step towards building capacity within the Northwest Territories, as it prepares coaches for future Canada Games and promotes the development of cycling programs in local communities. The clinic also emphasized the importance of collaboration with other sports to enhance physical literacy, ensuring that residents of all ages can benefit from active lifestyles.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Peter Glassford for his incredible contributions, as well as to Cycling Canada for their support in making this event possible. Their responsiveness to questions and commitment to coach training and certification were invaluable. Additionally, the Mackenzie Recreation Association deserves recognition for their financial support, which played a crucial role in the clinic’s success and capacity-building efforts.
“Cycling Canada is proud to support Cycling NWT’s first NCCP coaching clinic. This will set up Cycling NWT for success moving towards 2025, with Community Trained and Introduction to Competition coaches. We are excited to see the passion that Cycling NWT has and to have them become a part of the Cycling Canada family as one of our provincial/territorial cycling associations.”- Jen Milligan, Community & Grassroots Manager, Cycling Canada.
As the clinic concluded, participants left with newfound skills, knowledge, and a shared excitement for the future of cycling in the Northwest Territories. The organizers are eagerly looking forward to the many amazing developments that will arise from this initiative, paving the way for a vibrant cycling culture and increased opportunities for athletes in the region.
