Still Going Strong!
Long-Time CCAP Youth Coach Ed Deplaines

Ed Deplaines started coaching the Hamden Cheshire Rail Trailers because his daughter Melody was on the mountain bike team. That was quite a few years ago. Melody started college in 2021, and Ed is still going strong as an assistant coach of all three of the Hamden Cheshire teams. Mountain biking in the spring, road cycling in the summer, and cyclocross in the fall.

Rail Trailers Head Coach Hunter Pronovost shared this: “Ed’s contribution to the team over the years has been extremely valuable. He is always willing to take on whatever role is needed at practice or team events. He always has a positive can-do attitude, and I know the kids benefit from that, and they emulate that positivity in our rides.”

We asked Ed a few questions about his experience. First and foremost, to honor his involvement but also to show would-be coaches how fun and satisfying coaching a cycling team is.

CCAP - What initially drew you to become involved with CCAP and the Hamden Cheshire Rail Trailers?

Ed - My daughter becoming a RailTrailer. I wanted to be more involved with Melody’s activities. Plus, bikes are fun.

CCAP - How has your experience been helping the team while your daughter was a member and after she moved on?

Ed - I find it rewarding. Helping out the team, watching the kids become better cyclists, and making friends with other coaches. There was little question in my mind that I was going to keep it going after Melody aged out.

CCAP - Can you share some memorable moments or achievements you’ve witnessed as a coach?

Ed - Every time a rail trailer stands on the podium, with a huge smile. One stand-out time was in Bishops Orchard CX. Melody won her category for Season Champion. I know she did not feel that she deserved it, but everyone was supportive and reassured her she really did deserve the win. Watching Joel, Aaron (Kowalonek) and Alejandro (Huber) compete with each other. Watching Aeryn (Northway) and Sarah (Gibertoni), Elena and Greta (Roswech) become good teammates supporting each other, driving their performances higher. I really think that is the key to the RailTrailer’s continuing success.

CCAP - What motivates you to continue the team?

Ed - Good company and a sense of community keep me active. I am really hoping to convince more people to try downhill mountain biking ;)

CCAP - A CCAP DH youth team would be awesome! How do you believe your continued involvement impacts the team and the broader CCAP community?

Ed - More hands make for lighter loads. As more of a supporting role, helping out helps the main coach focus on instruction.  If I can help out with a quick word of advice or to keep the team moving, then I am satisfied.  Every coach has a nugget of knowledge they can impart or offer to help the team. That might be bike maintenance, upgrades, bike handling skills, or strategies to keep pushing in the face of fatigue or bad conditions. We certainly have seen that this past weekend in Moran CX.

CCAP - What lessons have you learned from your time with CCAP that you’d like to share with other coaches or parents?

Ed - Parents, ride with your kids at practice! Practice is as much a part of physical training as it is about skills. Try to occasionally ride with the team. Shared experiences will give the parents something to talk about and reminisce with their children. Not very many sports allow parents to join in. I am glad I have. 

CCAP - How has the community of CCAP coaches and the camaraderie among them influenced your journey?

Ed - The larger CCAP community is a big reason I still am involved. I had planned on stopping once Melody graduated, but the coaches talked me into staying involved. I am glad I am still part of the team.

CCAP - Are there any particular challenges you've faced as an assistant coach, and how have you overcome them?

Ed - I remember one RTX’er hit his head in the woods at Rockland. That was scary. I was grateful one of the coaches had extensive head injury training at the time. It underscores the importance of taking the training that the CCAP provides seriously.

CCAP - Indeed. What advice would you give someone looking to get involved in youth cycling with the CCAP?

Ed - Don’t hesitate. Other coaches will help you get involved. Even though adults may not have the skills or knowledge yet, that should not stop them. You will learn as you go. More hands make for lighter loads. 

Thank you, Ed! Thank you for years of service to the cycling community and for your continued enthusiasm!

The CCAP needs more coaches like ED!
If you would like to get involved with a youth cycling team at the head coach or assistant coach level, check out the link at the bottom of the page!