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My son/daughter has climbed a little; how will he/she fit into the Earth Treks Climbing Clubs/Teams?
We have many different teams for every age group and commitment level. The Junior Club is for the younger kids, ages 6-9.
The Recreational Club is for ages 9-13 and is designed as a fun time climbing session where the kids can belay each other and climb with kids their own age. Pre-requisite for this program is Friday Nite Rox or Summer Camp.
The Intermediate Climbing Team is for ages 9-16. Intermediate Team is perfect for those who have experienced Rec Club for at least one session and are looking to take their climbing abilities to the next level. Practices will focus on a fun, healthy, and educational approach to climbing. Pre-requisites for this are one session of the Rec Club, as well as try-outs. Try-outs are held up to two times per year. Once in September at the start of the new season, and once in the Spring space permitting.
The Advanced Climbing Team is for ages 9-18 and is for those who are looking to get better at climbing. The team will work hard twice a week and have the opportunity to compete at local competitions. Pre-requisites for this are one session of the Rec Club or Intermediate Team, as well as try-outs. Try-outs are held up to two times per year. Once in September at the start of the new season, and once in the Spring space permitting.
Team Earth Treks is our highest-level team and competes on the national stage. Team Earth Treks travels for competitions all over the country and is nationally ranked in both bouldering and difficulty (sport and speed climbing). This team is by invitation only after one of the try-out sessions. Try-outs are held up to two times per year. Once in September at the start of the new season, and once in the Spring space permitting.
What goes on in a climbing competition, and who can compete?
All climbers, including adults, youth, new climbers and veteran climbers, are invited to attend competitions. Generally, climbers get to choose what climbs they want to do. Each climb is worth a point value. The harder the climb, the greater the point value. Standings are based on points accumulated in a given amount of time, based on their five highest value climbs. See www.usaclimbing.org for more detailed information on different formats.
What's the time commitment for competitions?
Competitions are usually one-day events held on weekends. Past competitions for our Capital Area Region have been in Washington, DC; Columbia, MD; Rockville, MD; Alexandria, VA; Reston, VA; Richmond, VA; and Philadelphia, PA. The current season of local competitions will be posted on www.usaclimbing.org.
Can my son/daughter come in and climb when he/she is not in practice?
If he/she is an Annual Member of Earth Treks, they may come in to climb whenever they like. Non-members may climb during practice times, or they may purchase a day pass. Regardless of membership status, the minimum age for belaying at Earth Treks without an instructor is 13.
How do I sign my child up for one of the teams?
Junior Club and Recreational Club are available for online registration on a first come, first served basis. The Intermediate Team, Advanced Team and Team Earth Treks require a successful tryout prior to enrollment.
Is there a maximum number of members on a team?
Yes. We will limit the sizes of all the clubs and teams to ensure that adequate supervision and high quality instruction is provided. Club level programs often fill well in advance, so act early for best availability. Team level programs require a successful tryout, and due to a high level of interest the tryouts are generally competitive.
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