Climbing is a community. Climbers of all abilities are at the heart; but we could not pursue our passion without the tireless efforts of coaches, donors, judges, gym staffs, parents, routesetters, volunteers and others. Check out all the ways you can get involved with USA Climbing.
Ty Hardaway
Chair, Competition Belaying Working Group
I first climbed in my 8th grade Field Studies class. That was 1978 and we fashioned harnesses from the end of our ropes and belayed by using rope friction around our waists. Climbing gyms did not yet exist.
"Now I volunteer as belayer, speed starter, and judge. It’s great to work with dedicated, fun, and devoted people from all over. It’s especially rewarding to be able to do my part to keep athletes safe and competitions fair.
“The Community Award winners are members of our local communities and range from youth competitors to seasoned volunteers,” said Bruce Mitchell, President of USA Climbing’s Board of Directors. “In a year where we faced immense challenges and our community had to come up with creative ways to keep climbing, we are grateful for the continued commitment of our members to push the sport forward.”
Examples of Important Community Roles
Beginning this season, all coaches affiliated with a USA Climbing sanctioned team must be Safe Sport trained and have successfully completed a background screen. The Level 2 Coach Membership is the same as a Coach Membership was in previous seasons. The Level 1 Coach has been added as a way for teams to ensure all coach affiliates are Safe Sport trained and have a successfully completed background screen without incurring the higher cost associated with the Level 2 Membership. As described below, USA Climbing Teams will be required to attest that all coaches on their staff have either a Level 1 or 2 Coach Membership, except for a coach who is a minor. Each Team Membership must have at least one Active Level 2 Coach Member.
Below is a link to a printable .pdf version of our USA Climbing Rulebook, this rule book houses all of the important information: Competition Disciplines, General Rules, Protocols, Policies and more.
USA Climbing Rulebook 2020-2021 v1.0 (Updated: September 3, 2020)
USA Climbing Youth Speed Trials Benchmark Times (Updated: Feb 4, 2021)
USA Climbing Rulebook 2020-2021 Addendum C (Updated: March 20, 2021)
USA Climbing Rulebook 2020-2021 Addendum D (Updated: May 26, 2021)
To request a coaching conduct review, please fill out the form below and send it to coaches@usaclimbing.org.
USA Climbing Coaches Conduct Review Request
The Coaches Committee is an Advisory Committee with the goal to educate and organize coaches in an effort to raise the level of coaching in competition climbing in the USA and among US coaches in international competition. Under the supervision of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and BOD, the CC is responsible for providing educational and development opportunities for USA Climbing Certified Coaches, evaluating the USA Climbing Coaches Code of Conduct and representing coaches’ interests to USA Climbing and its committees. Critical to the CC’s mission is to help keep USA Climbing Certified Coaches informed, educated, and to solicit feedback. In an effort to open communication pathways, each USA Climbing Division has a designated CC member representative. Please feel free to reach out for questions, suggestions, and feedback.
Coach Committee Chairman: Meghan McDonald Coach Committee Direct Email: coaches@usaclimbing.org
Coaching Committee Meghan McDonald – Chair Rosie Bates – Athlete Jessi Haynes Stephen “Chi” Harris TJ Sanford Justin Wyse Francesca Caiazzo
USA Team Coaches & Staff
Josh Larson – Head Coach
Meg Coyne- Assistant Coach
Zack DiCristino, MSPT, OCS – Team Physical Therapist
The USA Climbing Coaches Committee exists to; serve as a resource for climbing coaches and in turn, gyms across the country, provide framework around the Coaching Certification Program, elevate the professionalism of the career, and promote inclusiveness and unity in the sport of climbing.
The Judges Committee was formed to support and advance the development of judging at all USA Climbing sanctioned competitions. The Committee’s activities specifically include the ongoing development and implementation of the Judges Certification Program, with the intention of increasing the number of trained and certified judges for all championship and local level competitions.
Judges Certification program for 2020-21 Season:
The JudgeCertification Program is currently under review and will be updated soonaccording to the new rulebook. Beginning in May 2021, all individuals interested in being a Certified Judge will need to complete the new online certification process. This means that currently no new Certified Judge Memberships are being approved.
Aspirant Route Judge Performance Review This form is a personal assessment and should be completed by the Aspirant Route Judge.
Chief Judge Evaluation This form should be completed by all Certified Route Judges and Aspirant Judges.
Chief Judge Performance Review of Aspirant or Certified Route Judge This form should be completed by the Chief Judge for each Aspirant or Certified Route Judge at each Local, Regional, Divisional and National Event.
Certified Route Judge Performance Review of Aspirant Route Judge This form should be completed by the all Certified Route Judges who oversee an Aspirant Route Judge at a Local, Regional, Divisional or National Event.
Aspirant Chief Judge Performance Review This form should be completed by the Chief Judge for each Aspirant Chief Judge at regional, divisional and national events.
Contact If you have questions about the USA Climbing Judges Program, please contact:
USA Climbing Judges Committee Chairman: Mark Vasta Email: judges@usaclimbing.org
New Certification Questions: Certifications@usaclimbing.org
If you have general questions about USA Climbing or USA Climbing competitions, please contact the USA Climbing office at: info@usaclimbing.org or USA Climbing Office Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5 pm (MST) Phone: 888.944.4244 Fax: 561. 423.0715
2019-2020 Season
NCS at Stone Age Climbing Gym Chief Judge: Tab Stephens
NCS at Dogpatch Boulders Chief Judge: Dustin Skinner
NCS at High Point Climbing and Fitness Chief Judge: Jim Norton
Combined Invitational Chief Judge: Bruce Mitchell Secondary Chief Judge: Dustin Skinner Speed Category Judge: John Kelly
Open Bouldering Nationals Chief Judge: Dustin Skinner Secondary Chief Judge: Bruce Mitchell Assistant Chief Judge: Jaime Ray
Youth Bouldering Nationals Chief Judge: Mark Vasta Secondary Chief Judge: Tab Stephens Assistant: Michael Sprague. Intern: Josh Calfy
Open Sport and Speed Nationals Chief Judge: Dustin Skinner Secondary Chief Judge: Jaime Ray Speed Category Judge: John Kelly
Collegiate Nationals Chief Judge: Bruce Mitchell Secondary Chief Judge: Dustin Skinner
Youth Sport and Speed Nationals Chief Judge: Mark Vasta Secondary Chief Judge: Jim Norton Assistant: TBD Speed Category Judge: John Kelly Intern: TBD
Mission
USA Climbing (USAC) provides instruction, training, and certification to routesetters at various levels for competition routesetting. Since 2006, the USA Climbing Routesetting Committee (USAC RSC) has developed and managed the structure of the clinic instructional programs and certification system that USA Climbing now uses for sanctioned competition climbing. The USA Climbing Routesetting Committee is constantly working to further professionalize and standardize competition routesetting with an overall goal of increasing the quality and consistency of competition events and support the work of routesetters. The USA Climbing Routesetting Clinic and Certification Program (USAC RCCP) is managed by a Program Administrator in cooperation with the Chair of the Routesetting Committee and USA Climbing staff.
USA Climbing Routesetting Committee
Bret Johnston, Chair Cody Grodzki Nick Oklobjiza Sydney McNair John Oungst, Athlete Kasia Pietras, Athlete Ryan Sewell Flannery Shay-Nemirow Brad Weaver
Routesetting Clinic and Certification Program
Mike Bockino, Program Administrator, routesetting@usaclimbing.org
Level 1 certifies that a routesetter has successfully completed a USA Climbing Level 1 Routesetting Clinic and demonstrated basic proficiency of routesetting fundamentals and basic skills for competition routesetting.
Level 1 Clinics provide instruction for new and experienced routesetters alike, giving individuals an opportunity to learn and practice fundamental routesetting skills valuable for commercial and competition routesetting. In a Level 1 Clinic, one day is spent focusing on route-specific setting and another on boulder setting, with various exercises presented. Each routesetter is asked to set both routes and boulder problems and is given the opportunity to work with others in the forerunning process, gaining valuable feedback from the experienced USA Climbing Routesetting Instructor and peers alike. Routesetters gain insight into methods and techniques dealing with efficiency, hold manipulation, creative movement, aesthetics, youth routesetting, forerunning and the calibration or “tweaking” process.
Level 1 Certification is provided to successful participants who have demonstrated proficiency in the basic routesetting skills presented and practiced, and an understanding of the methods and ideas introduced regarding redpoint and on-sight competition routesetting.
Clinic Duration 2 days
Prerequisites Ability to climb 5.10 & V3 6 months routesetting experience
Endorsements Not applicable
Level 2 Certifies that a routesetter has successfully completed a USA Climbing Level 2 Routesetting Clinic and demonstrated sufficient knowledge of onsight routesetting and other skills necessary to set effectively for Championship level events.
Routesetters must apply to participate in a Level 2 Clinic and are selected based on a combination of factors including their general and USAC specific competition routesetting experience, resume, references, personal application, and the gym and/or region they represent. Level 2 Clinics have a significantly higher level of intensity than the Level 1 Clinic, with exclusive focus on onsight competition routesetting, specific exercises targeted to challenge routesetters, and with more detailed evaluation.
The goal of the Level 2 Clinic is to provide an environment for experienced competition routesetters to demonstrate their skills, learn specific techniques and approaches for onsight competition routesetting, organization and teamwork, and to evaluate the ability of those individuals to work effectively as routesetters at USA Climbing Championship level competitions. In this clinic, we focus on challenging setters with respect to fundamental aspects of Championship routesetting. Knowing the USA Climbing youth categories and routesetting effectively for them in an onsight format are the most important aspects. In addition, being familiar with competition organization, USA Climbing rules, and having fundamental skills of strong communication, leadership, and time management are also incredibly valuable. Our goal is not only to have Level 2 routesetters working at Regional and higher events that are experienced and creative with respect to the craft of routesetting, but also those that approach the work at these events with a high degree of professionalism, attention to detail and ability to work well with others to contribute to an effective team.
In a Level 2 Clinic, one day is spent focusing exclusively on boulder-specific setting and another on route-specific setting, with a third emphasizing competition organization, management, rules and judging. Each routesetter is expected to set multiple boulder problems and at least one route, testing their knowledge of USAC youth categories, difficulty levels, and how to effectively and fairly divide a field of competitors, all while working constructively with others in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, routesetters are evaluated on their creativity, understanding of hold manipulation, ability to work within routesetting constraints, organization, communication, leadership, management, and teamwork – all important skill sets for an effective Championship routesetter, and specifically, potential Chief Routesetter, to have.
Level 2 Certification is provided to successful participants, denoting their competency to set for Championship level competitions. Routesetters with Level 2 Certification may apply to official USAC Internships at higher level (Divisional and National) competitions.
Clinic Duration 3 days
Prerequisites Level 1 Certification; Significant USA Climbing competition routesetting experience; Chief Routesetter experience Ability to forerun a minimum of 5.13 & V7
Endorsements Not Applicable
Level 3 Certifies that a routesetter has successfully completed an Internship at a Divisional or National level competition and is qualified and eligible to apply for an Apprenticeship position at any National level competitions.
Routesetters with Level 2 Certification may apply to Divisional and National Internships announced on this website. These positions are very competitive because USA Climbing only has a small number of National events with limited Internship positions offered and there are many experienced and interested routesetters. During an Internship, a routesetter will work in all aspects of the Divisional or National level competition routesetting with a Level 5 (Or Level 4, Approved by Routesetting Committee) Chief Routesetter and an experienced team.
Events at which National Internships have typically been offered include: Bouldering Youth Divisionals, Bouldering Youth Nationals, Sport & Speed Open Nationals, GoPro’s Vail Citizens Nationals, Sport & Speed Youth Divisionals, and Sport & Speed Youth Nationals. Each event is different but typically requires a week of work. Interns are not compensated and must arrange for their own travel.
Internship Duration 5-7 days for each event
Prerequisites Level 2 Regional Certification Significant experience routesetting for USA Climbing Championship level competitions Able to forerun 5.13 and V7.
Endorsements Bouldering and Sport Climbing
Level 4 Certifies that a routesetter has successfully completed an Apprenticeship at a National level competition and is qualified and eligible to work as an Assistant Routesetter at any National level event. Level 4 Endorsements, in Bouldering and Sport Climbing, certify that a routesetter is competent and eligible to be Chief Routesetter in the discipline(s) for which they have the endorsement(s), at USA Climbing Divisional level competitions.
Routesetters with Level 3 Certification may apply to Apprentice positions for National competitions announced on this website. These positions offer a small stipend and a travel allowance and give Routesetters who have completed a National Internship the opportunity to continue to gain experience with National events. During an Apprenticeship, a Routesetter will work in all aspects of National level competition routesetting with a Level 5 Chief Routesetter and an experienced team. A Routesetter who successfully completes an Apprenticeship will be awarded Level 4 Certification.
Routesetters with Level 4 Certification are eligible to apply to Assistant positions for any National competitions announced on this website. Assistant Routesetters at National events are paid a full salary and all travel expenses and accommodation are covered.
Endorsement(s) in each specific discipline (bouldering/sport climbing) may be awarded to those Routesetters with Level 4 Certification who are considered highly qualified to be Chief Routesetters for Divisional Level events in the specific discipline AND who have received a positive report from a USA Climbing Level 5 Routesetter while working at a USA Climbing Divisional or National level competition.
Prerequisites Level 3 Certification; AND Significant experience routesetting for USA Climbing Championship level competitions. Ability to forerun a minimum of 5.13a or V7
Endorsements Bouldering and Sport Climbing.
Certifies that a routesetter has successfully completed a National Chief Routesetter Practical and is qualified and eligible as a Chief Routesetter in the discipline(s) for which they have the endorsement(s), at USA Climbing National level competitions.
The most experienced Level 4 Routesetters who are interested in becoming National Chief Routesetters, may formally request to the Chief Routesetter of an event for which they have been hired as an Assistant, to undergo a “Level 5 Practical Review” at. This request must be submitted at least one month prior to the competition and then approved first by the Chief Routesetter and also the USA Climbing Routesetting Committee. If approved, the Assistant Routesetter will work closely with the Chief Routesetter in the preparation and execution of the event and their work will be reviewed by the Chief Routesetter, Chief Judge and Chief Organizer.
Testing Duration 5-7 days for each event
Prerequisites Level 4 Certification Experience at 4 or more National level competitions Ability to forerun 5.13 and V7.
Endorsements Youth Bouldering, Adult Bouldering, Youth Sport Climbing, and Adult Sport Climbing.
As part of the USA Climbing Routesetting Clinic and Certification program, USAC organizes Level 1 and Level 2 clinics for routesetters across the country.
Level 1 Routesetting Clinic
The USA Climbing Level 1 Routesetting Clinic teaches participants basic proficiency of routesetting fundamentals and basic skills for competition routesetting. Successful participants will receive a Level 1 Certification. The Participation Fee is $300, and all participants must have an active USAC Routesetter Annual Membership ($70). Beginner and experienced routesetters alike are welcomed as long as they have 6 months or more routesetting experience and can work V3 or 5.10. Level 2 Routesetting Clinic
The USA Climbing Level 2 Routesetting Clinic teaches and tests participants’ knowledge of on-sight routesetting and other skills necessary to set effectively for Championship level events. There is a competitive application process for Level 2 Clinics and to be considered, applicants should have significant competition Routesetting experience, Chief Routesetter experience, and must be able to work V7 and 5.13. Successful participants will receive Level 2 Certification, having gained experience that can contribute to their effective work at Regional competitions, and are then eligible to apply for official Divisional or National Internships. The Participation Fee is $550, and all participants must have an active USAC Routesetter Annual Membership ($70).
Host a Clinic Most large commercial climbing gyms may host a Level 1 clinic at their facility, if they have significant bouldering and route terrain but USA Climbing must review all possible host facilities before scheduling. Level 2 clinics are scheduled by USA Climbing typically two – three times per year based on various detailed specifications of the host facility and location selection based on diverse geographic offerings.For full details visit the hosting page and inquire to routesetting@usaclimbing.org.
This page lists all currently scheduled USA Climbing Routesetting Clinics. Please read below for more information and registration details for each clinic. Please review the Level 1 and Level 2 Clinic descriptions and pre-requisites on the Certification page before registering or applying for a clinic. Additional clinics may be scheduled for later in the year in various regions. If you are interested in hosting a clinic at your facility, please visit our hosting page. Contact Mike Bockino at routesetting@usaclimbing.org with any questions.
LEVEL 1 Clinics:
Note: To register for a Level 1 clinic you must first have a Routesetter Membership. You can get this here https://usaclimbing.sport80.com and after having gotten the Routesetter Membership, you can then log-in to your Sport80 account to register for the clinic itself. A basic how-to can be found: HERE
If you are interested in registering but want to first ensure there are spots available before purchasing the Routesetter Membership and logging in to register for the clinic, please contact routesetting@usaclimbing.organd we can confirm availability. Otherwise, you can “wait list” for the clinic you are interested in and we will contact you if any spots become available.
Our goal is to provide clinic instruction to routesetters throughout the US and in as many regions as possible. In order to do this we need great host facility partners. If you are interested in hosting a USA Climbing Routesetting Clinic please see below or email routesetting@usaclimbing.org
HOSTING A LEVEL 1 CLINIC
A Level 1 Clinic is ideal for regular hosts of USA Climbing local or higher level competitions. In order to host a Level 1 Clinic, a host facility must have significant roped and bouldering terrain, sufficient for hosting bouldering and sport local climbing competitions. It is most common for a Level 1 Clinic to have 15 – 20 participants and the best host facilities will typically be larger climbing gyms, those that regularly host USA Climbing competitions at various levels, and those generally interested in training their own routesetting staff and/or welcoming routesetters from outside the facility.
There is no host fee for a Level 1 Clinic. The host facility provides the climbing terrain and additional space for dedicated use during the typical 9am – 5pm schedule of the two day clinic and must be willing and able to accommodate up to 20 total routesetters. Basic requirements we look for in terms of facility hosts include:
Depending on the number of participants, up to 20 individual route lines each a minimum of 24’ tall (ideal is 30’ – 40’) and with variety of top-rope and lead terrain.The exact number and location of route lines is determined in negotiation with the Chief Instructor during the clinic set-up and preparation process. The route terrain should generally be determined planning for approximately 40% of the terrain as “beginner” (shorter walls 24’ – 32’ and slab or near vertical), 60% “intermediate” terrain (24’ – 40’ and between vertical and 15 – 30 degrees overhanging in sections) and 20% “advanced” terrain (24’ – 40’ averaging over 30 degrees overhanging, ie. lead-only terrain). Approximately 120 linear feet of bouldering terrain with space needed for up to 20 routesetters to work simultaneously.We review the terrain to be planned for a Level 2 Clinic well in advance with the host facility representative and will be flexible where possible to accommodate for the needs of the gym’s regular operation, in consideration of the needs for an effective clinic experience. Bouldering terrain should be diverse, ranging from slab and vertical to more overhanging terrain, and including aretes, dihedrals, if possible, and with a similar distribution as described above with respect to the relative difficulty and steepness of the terrain. All routesetters, whether from the host facility, the immediate area, or traveling to the clinic from outside the region, must register directly through USA Climbing for a $200.00 participant fee, and all routesetters must also purchase a $70.00 Routesetter membership if they do not already have a current membership.
As our goal is to offer opportunities wherever there is interest in our Level 1 Clinic, while also specifically trying to schedule clinics in as many regions as possible, we strive to schedule clinics throughout each year in diverse areas of the country.
Benefits to Host Facility: Host facility routesetters can participate in a Level 1 Clinic in their own gym without any cost of travel. Successful participants will receive a Level 1 Certification. The facility’s routesetters will benefit from the work of the other clinic participants who have diverse backgrounds and represent many gyms from around the country. For new climbing facilities, hosting a Level 1 Clinic can be an excellent opportunity to create a positive learning environment for intermediate experience level routesetters at their new gym, to create pre-opening buzz among the community and provide ownership and management a chance to see the work of routesetters within the structured environment of a clinic. Depending on the number of participants, there will typically be 15 – 20 routes and between 20 – 30 boulder problems set during the Level 1 Clinic. Many host facilities will schedule clinics specifically in the context of their regular rotation, use the clinic as a way to refresh the start of a new round of routesetting, or use the routes and/or boulder problems from the clinic for youth competitive training. Details:
Clinic Duration: 2 days Host Fee: NONE Total Participants: 20 maximum Participant Costs: $200.00 Participant Fee and mandatory $70 USAC Routesetter Membership.
HOSTING A LEVEL 2 CLINIC
Level 2 Clinics are only held 2 – 3 times per year at host facilities determined by USAC, based on their location, facility details and past experience hosting USAC Championship competitions or other clinics. We only schedule Level 2 Clinics at host facilities that have hosted, or are capable of hosting Championship Level (Regional/Divisional/National) competitions, in both disciplines, and ideally, these facilities also will have hosted one or more Level 1 Clinics. Level 2 Clinics are ideal for host facilities that regularly hold Regional and Divisional events and that are interested in training one or two of their own routesetters, and providing a training ground for other routesetters also seriously interested in becoming better trained and qualified for Championship Level USAC events.
As with the Level 1 Clinic, there is no host fee but the facility must provide the adequate terrain needed for the clinic and then can select one or two of their own routesetters to participate in the clinic. This is determined after review with the RCCP Administrator during clinic scheduling. The individual routesetter(s) are selected by the host facility directly and do not have to apply but must register for the clinic itself ($400.00) as all other setters, and each must also have or purchase the $70 USAC Routesetter Membership. All other routesetters apply for the clinic directly through USAC and will be selected by the Chief Instructor, Assistant Instructor(s) and in consultation with the RCCP Administrator. In any given year, typically two Level 2 Clinics will be held, in different regions, and host facilities will be chosen based on a combination of factors we look for including:
To host a Level 2 Clinic, a host facility must have significant roped and bouldering terrain sufficient for hosting bouldering and sport Championship level competitions (Regional/Divisional/National), and have experience hosting USAC Championship level events and/or clinics. The basic terrain details outlined above in the Level 1 section also apply to Level 2 Clinics; in addition we need access to a group or party room space adequate for presentations, and use of a projector if possible. We review the quality of the overall facility terrain and gym amenities on a case by case basis. An active youth climbing team at the host facility that we may coordinate with. The location of host facilities is reviewed, considering not only our goal of hosting Level 2 Clinics in different regions regularly, but also hosting in cities that are easy to travel to, ideally have low cost for reasonable accommodation, and accessible transportation and food options.
Benefits to Host Facility: Host facility may select at least one but no more than two local routesetters to participate in the Level 2 clinic. This routesetter must already have Level 1 Certification and meet the minimum standards for participation. Successful participants will receive a Level 2 Certification. Exercises designed to focus routesetters’ skill development on setting for youth, setting on-sight specific for bouldering and sport climbing, and working efficiently and effectively individually and as part of a team. Instruction and review of organizational aspects of USAC Championship level events, including rules, competition planning, etc. High instructor to participant ratio (1:6) results in more hands-on time for routesetters and specific feedback following the clinic experience for each routesetter. There will be 12 routes and between 24 – 36 boulder problems set during the Level 2 Clinic. Details:
Clinic Duration: 3 days Host Fee: NONE Total Participants: 12 maximum including 1 – 2 facility host routesetters (all routesetters must apply for participation) Participant Costs: $400.00 Participant Fee and mandatory $70 USAC Routesetter Membership
HOSTING DETAILS
Host Requirements: As outlined above, host facilities must have adequate additional resources, sufficient to accommodate the clinic type and expected number of clinic participants. A host facility representative, such as the climbing gym owner, manager, or chief routesetter will be expected to communicate initially with the USAC RCCP Administrator and after clinic registration is set-up, then directly with the USAC Chief Instructor, to ensure adequate preparations are made for the clinic.
How to Schedule: USAC Routesetting Clinics are scheduled through the Routesetting Clinic and Certification Program Administrator, Mike Bockino. Level 1 Clinics can generally be scheduled at any time convenient for the host facility and based on the Chief Instructor’s availability. We will work with a host’s ideal schedule planning, in consideration of whether we determine sufficient interest in the region and based on the timing of the clinic, and the overall schedule of all other Level 1 Clinics. We try to schedule all clinics a minimum of 3 months in advance in order to provide time for USAC to announce and advertise, and for individual participants to register, or in the case of Level 2 Clinics, for individual participants to apply and their applications to be reviewed.
Level 2 Clinics are only scheduled at host facilities that are Championship level competition hosts, and after significant review and planning in the context of the overall yearly schedule of clinics. Generally, the RCCP will offer two Level 2 Clinics per year, in different regions. Contact Mike at routesetting@usaclimbing.org for more information or to schedule a clinic.
Instructors: USAC Chief Instructors are all Level 5 Certified Routesetters with decades of combined experience and Assistant Instructors have worked at numerous national events and are also typically Chief Routesetters in commercial facilities.
Current Instructors and Assistant Instructors include:
Chief Instructors Chris Danielson (USAC Level 5 Routesetter; IFSC Routesetter) John Muse (USAC Level 5 Routesetter; RSC Chairperson) Luke Bertelsen (USAC Level 5 Routesetter, RSC Member) Ian McIntosh (USAC Level 5 Rouetsetter, RSC Member) Molly Beard (USAC Level 5 Routesetter) Mike Helt (USAC Level 5 Routesetter)
Assistant Instructors Dave Wetmore (USAC Level 5 Routesetter) Nic Oklobzija (USAC Level 5 Routesetter) John Oungst (USAC Level 4 Routesetter) Mike Bockino (USAC Level 4 Routesetter) Jeremy Hardin (USAC Level 4 Routesetter) Josh Haynes (USAC Level 4 Routesetter) Garrett Gregor (USAC Level 4 Routesetter)
One of our core values is to encourage responsible use, and the protection and preservation of the natural environment – which is why a portion of USA Climbing membership revenue goes to support The Access Fund. Today, 1 in 5 outdoor climbing areas in the United States are threatened—whether it’s private land lost to development, public land managers over-regulating climbing, or climber impacts degrading the environment, the list of threats is long and constantly evolving. The Access Fund is on a mission to keep climbing areas open and conserve the climbing environment.
A competitor membership is for competitive youth and adult climbers that wish to compete at regional, divisional, and/or national level events. A competitor membership can also be used at qualifying (local) events and is required for results to count toward regional qualification. In order to obtain this membership, a competitor member that is 18 years or older must complete annual SafeSport Training.
An introductory membership is for competitive climbers that wish to compete at qualifying (local) events and National Cup Series competitions. Introductory members qualifying event scores will not qualify for regional, divisional, and/or national level events. In order for a climber’s score to count towards regional qualification, introductory members must upgrade their membership prior to the qualifying competition, in addition to other eligibility requirements, through their USA Climbing account to either a competitor membership (youth/adult) or a collegiate membership (collegiate). In order to obtain this membership, an introductory member that is 18 years or older must complete annual SafeSport Training.
A collegiate membership is for competitive collegiate climbers that wish to compete at divisional and/or national level collegiate events. A collegiate membership can also be used at collegiate qualifying (local) events. In order to compete in non-collegiate events, a collegiate member must upgrade to a competitor membership through their USA Climbing account. In order to obtain this membership, a collegiate member that is 18 years or older must complete annual SafeSport Training.
A collegiate introductory membership is for competitive climbers that wish to compete at qualifying (local) events. In order for a collegiate climber to compete at divisional, and/or national level events, collegiate introductory members must upgrade their membership, in addition to other eligibility requirements, through their USA Climbing account to either a competitor membership (youth/adult) or a collegiate membership (collegiate). In order to obtain this membership, an introductory member that is 18 years or older must complete annual SafeSport Training.
A paraclimbing membership is for competitive para-athletes that wish to compete at local and national level paraclimbing events. In order to compete in non-paraclimbing events, a paraclimbing member must upgrade to a competitor membership through their USA Climbing account. In order to obtain this membership, a paraclimbing member that is 18 years or older must complete annual SafeSport Training.
Details for the fall season coming in August 2021.
A Level 1 Coach Membership is for coaches that wish to coach at a USA Climbing Sanctioned Event. Level 1 Coaches do not have competition isolation area (‘iso’) access. A Level 1 Coach does have the ability to file appeals. In order to obtain this membership, a coach must complete annual SafeSport Training, successfully pass a background screen, and provide documentation of their coaching role. SafeSport Training and Background Screens can be accessed through a member’s USA Climbing account. Coaching verification is to be completed independently by the member with documentation uploaded into their USA Climbing account. Level 1 Coaches can upgrade their membership to a Level 2 Coach Membership at any time through their USA Climbing account.
A Level 2 Coach Membership is for coaches that wish to coach at a USA Climbing Sanctioned Event. Level 2 Coaches have competition isolation area (‘iso’) access and the ability to file appeals. In order to obtain this membership, a coach must complete annual SafeSport Training, First Aid/CPR certification, successfully pass a background screen, and provide documentation of their coaching role. SafeSport Training and Background Screens can be accessed through a member’s USA Climbing account. First Aid/CPR Certification and coaching verification is to be completed independently by the member with documentation uploaded into their USA Climbing account.
Supporter Members are individuals who support the strategic direction of USA Climbing, including but not limited to, purpose, programs, aims and objectives of USA Climbing.
A Certified Routesetter Membership is for USA Climbing certified routesetters. In order to obtain this membership, a routesetter must complete annual SafeSport Training. Level 3, 4, and 5 Routesetters must also successfully pass a background screen. SafeSport Training and Background Screens can be accessed through a member’s USA Climbing account.
A Routesetter Membership is for individuals in process of becoming a Certified Routesetter by attending a Routesetting Clinic. Once a Routesetter Member successfully completes clinic requirements, they must upgrade to a Certified Routesetter Membership in order for certification to be complete. This membership is also for routesetters who are not certified but are members of a routesetting crew who are routesetting for a USA Climbing competition where a certification is not required. In order to obtain this membership, a routesetter member that is 18 years or older must complete annual SafeSport Training.
A Certified Judge Membership is required for all Certified Chief Judges and Certified Route Judges who appear on the ‘Certified Judges List’. In order to obtain this membership, a judge must complete annual SafeSport Training and successfully pass a background screen. SafeSport Training and Background Screens can be accessed through a member’s USA Climbing account.
This membership is required for gyms who are hosting any USA Climbing sanctioned events. It allows inclusion in a searchable gym locator on the USA Climbing website and one free membership of their choice.
This membership allows a gym to be included in a searchable gym locator on the USA Climbing website and access to USA Climbing benefits.
This membership is available for facilities with multiple locations that have already purchased one classic gym membership and are hosting USA Climbing sanctioned events. For example, if a gym has three locations they should purchase one full gym membership and two additional facility memberships.
A Volunteer Membership is required by those seeking to volunteer at a sanctioned USA Climbing competition. Volunteer Memberships (Covered and Non-Covered Individuals) are split into two categories based on the type of volunteer position.
Covered Individuals: Chief Belayers, Isolation Coordinators, Volunteer Coordinators, and Event Organizers. In order to obtain this membership, a member must complete annual SafeSport Training and successfully pass a background screen. SafeSport Training and Background Screens can be accessed through a member’s USA Climbing account.
Non-Covered Individuals: Non-Certified Judges, Scorekeepers, Runners, and Belayers.
The coach who created the team has a certification that has expired. Once the coach renews that, your team will go. back to a current status. No action is required on behalf of the member.
Click on where your membership says “current” you will see the option to renew your 2021/2022 membership at the bottom of the form.
You will need to cancel and re-set up the auto renewal with the updated card information. You can access your auto renewal by logging in to your USA climbing account. Click on the “Memberships” tab then click on where your membership shows “Current”. You will see the option to start or cancel your auto renewal at the bottom of the form.
You can access your auto renewal by logging in to your USA climbing account. Click on the “Memberships” tab then click on where your membership shows “Current”. You will see the option to start or cancel your auto renewal at the bottom of the form.
Send an email to info@usaclimbing.org or a submit a support ticket with your name and the new email address you would like as the primary on your account.
Memberships have moved to a rolling structure and valid for a year from purchase date
Registration is open. Memberships have moved to a rolling structure and are valid for a year from the purchase date. If you selected auto renewal, your membership will renew on the date you purchased the previous year
Detailed descriptions can be found in the Member Handbook.
Yes, you can upgrade by logging in to your account, click on “Memberships” , “Add Membership” , add the Competitor membership and select the Competitor membership- add on to Introductory type where you will pay the difference of the price.
While both memberships can be used to compete in the Qualifying Events, only scores will court towards Regionals for members that have the Competitor membership.
Click on where your certification says “Lapsed” and work through the form. You will need to re-upload, change the expiration dates, and save.
The Level 1 membership type can be found by clicking on where your membership says “Current” “Renew” or “Lapsed” (whichever status it is in) where you will find “Change Membership Type” on the bottom of the form where you can renew the membership type of your choice.
Upgrade by clicking on where your Level 1 coach membership says “Current”, click on “Change Membership Type” where you can select the Level 2 membership and pay the difference of the fees.
This must be done by USA Climbing administration. Please email info@usaclimbing.org with the information.
Detailed steps can be found here.
A coach’s membership must be fully current prior to coaching at a USA Climbing sanctioned event.
Yes, a Level 1 Coach membership is a minimum requirement to be on the competition floor at a USA Climbing sanctioned event.
A level 2 Coach membership allows isolation access.
No, you must upgrade to the full Collegiate membership prior to Divisionals.
The Collegiate Intro membership allows participation only at a local level. A member must upgrade to the Collegiate membership for the difference of the price to compete at a Championship level event.
The system isn’t designed for a member to upload a Safe Sport Certificate. Everything is completed directly through your USA Climbing account. If you completed the training outside outside your USA Climbing account, please email your certificate to info@usaclimbing.org .
SafeSport training is required annually.
Those who have taken the Core training only need to take the 15 minute annual refresher upon expiration.
Those who have taken the Refresher Course: Recognizing and Reporting Misconduct, only need to take Refresher 2 upon expiration.
Those who have taken Refresher 2 only need to complete Refresher 3
Only one training is required annually.
To access the refresher courses you do not need to renew your Core Training. Click on “Add Center for Safe Sport Training” to locate the refresher courses.
Each year, the deadline for the annual refresher is one year from the training completion date.
The USA Climbing Safe Sport access code is no longer in use. Please access the Safe Sport training from within your USA climbing account by clicking on the “Center for Safe Sport Training” tab.
Click on where the course says “Resume Course” and click the X at the bottom of the page. This is the finalizing step to a current status
The Safe Sport training is accessed within a members account profile and an access code is no longer necessary. Once in the account you will see “Center for Safe Sport Training” on the left side of the profile. Click on “Add Center for Safe Sport Training”
After the initial Core Training, which may take up to about 90 minutes to complete, annual refreshers are required which generally take about 20 minutes to complete.
Not at this time. The Center has created an optional online training course intended for youth athletes (subject to parent or guardian consent).
All Certified Officials must complete Safe Sport training. In addition, Isolation Coordinators, Event Organizers, and Volunteer Coordinators will be required to obtain the Volunteer-Covered membership and to complete Safe Sport training. All other volunteers are encouraged to take the free training by registering for the USA Climbing Volunteer Non-Covered Membership and accessing the “Center for Safe Sport Training” from within your USA Climbing account profile on the left side of your dashboard.
Parental consent is required if you are under 18. This is accessed through the training itself in your USA Climbing account. If your parents are concerned about the training or object to you completing the training it is not required until you turn 18. Once you are an adult member you must have the training complete to continue your membership with USA Climbing.
If the training requirement applies to you, then it is required for you to continue your membership with USA Climbing, to compete in USA Climbing sanctioned events, to participate in USA Climbing camps or other training activities, and to utilize USA Climbing facilities.
The training is also required in order to utilize USOPC facilities for training, competition or any other reason.
Under USA Climbing’s existing policies and practices, the following categories of individuals continue to be required to complete the Safe Sport training including annual refresher training:
This Policy applies to the following Covered Individuals:
i. USA Climbing Staff
ii. USA Climbing Introductory, Competitor, Paraclimbing, and Collegiate Members 18-years and older
iii. USA Climbing Interns iv. USA Climbing Board Members v. USA Climbing Designated Committee Members (NGC, Audit, Judicial, Hearing Panel Pool, and Team Selection)
vi. USA Climbing National, Divisonal, and Regional Coordinators
vii. USA Climbing Certified Coaches viii. USA Climbing Certified Officials ix. USA Climbing Certified Routesetters x. USA Climbing Covered Volunteers (i.e. volunteer coordinator, isolation coordinator, event organizers)
xi. USA Climbing National Team Contracted Medical Personnel (i.e. doctors, trainers, etc.)
xii. USA Climbing Contracted Massage Therapists
xiii. USA Climbing Contractors who have regular contact with minor athletes (i.e. official National Team Chaperones)
xiv. USA Climbing National Team Athletes in USADA’s Registered Testing Pool
xv. Any other individual that USA Climbing formally authorizes, approves or appoints (a) to a position of authority over, or (b) to have regular contact with any athlete
Regular Contact (from the U.S. Center for Safe Sport 2022 MAAPP Policies) or “Sustained Interaction” includes ongoing interactions during a 12-month period wherein an Adult Participant is in a role of direct and active engagement with any Minor Athlete.
We are all committed to athlete safety. The training is one piece in sustaining a safe environment for all athletes. Safe Sport Training helps all of us to be more aware of unsafe behavior and potential disruptions to athletes’ desire to train, compete and enjoy their sport.
The law, “Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of 2017” authorizes the U.S. Center for Safe Sport (the “Center”) to address the risk of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse of amateur athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movements. The Center provides education and requirements consistent with the law, and this training is part of those requirements. The training is required by the Center, the USOC and USA Climbing.
The USA Climbing Safe Sport access code is no longer in use. Please access the Safe Sport training from within your USA Climbing account by clicking on the “Center for Safe Sport Training” tab.
The system isn’t designed for a member to upload a Safe Sport Certificate. Everything is now completed through your USA Climbing account. If you completed your training outside your USA climbing account, please email your certificate to info@usaclimbing.org
Please click on where the course says “Resume” and click the X at the bottom of the page. This is the finalizing step to a current status.
The Refresher courses can be found by clicking on “Add Center for Safe Sport Training” it will automatically reflect to a current status once complete.
No, only one 15 minute annual refresher is required.
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