COMPETITIVE
TEAM
Approved EPIC Charter Schools program
JOIN THE THRESHOLD
COMPETITIVE
CLIMBING TEAM
TRAIN HARD.
COMPETE
HARDER.
Threshold’s Competitive Team is for athletes who are serious about climbing and ready to push their limits. With a focus on advanced training, our team prepares climbers for success in USA Climbing competitions. We train twice a week, and participation in competitions is mandatory. This is the team for climbers who are committed to improving and competing at the highest level.
TAKE YOUR CLIMBING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
The Competitive Team is Threshold’s most advanced program, designed for climbers aged 8-18 who are ready to get serious. We meet twice a week for focused training sessions where you’ll work on everything from advanced climbing movements to building strength and endurance. You’ll also get expert coaching to fine-tune your skills and make sure you’re ready for competition. Our goal is to help you become the best climber you can be, whether that’s crushing local competitions or making it to the nationals.
We train athletes to excel in USA Climbing competitions, focusing on Redpoint, Flash, and Onsight climbing styles. These formats test different aspects of a climber’s skills, from endurance to strategy. Our training prepares athletes to perform in each of these styles, helping them develop the techniques, problem-solving abilities, and mental toughness required for competition.
BUILT FOR
COMPETITION
PREREQUISITES
To ensure athletes are ready for the challenges of the Competitive Team, we have specific climbing skill requirements based on category:
D-Category: V3 & 5.10a
C-Category: V4 & 5.10c
B-Category: V5 & 5.11a (Lead)
A/JR-Category: V6 & 5.11c (Lead)
HOW TO JOIN
Tryouts are held twice a year, in August and February. On rare occasions, we offer invites to athletes currently enrolled in our other youth programs, recognizing their progress and potential.
JOHN TARKINGTON
Head Coach, Competitive Team
John’s passion for climbing began in 2006, and he has since become a seasoned professional in both indoor and outdoor rock climbing. With certifications from the American Mountain Guides Association, Petzl Technical Institute, USA Climbing, and The Climbing Wall Association, John brings years of experience to his coaching. He instructs climbers at all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes, and is dedicated to helping climbers reach their full potential.
Interested in progressing further?
Ask us about joining the Competitive Team for more advanced training opportunities.
FAQs
-
Yes! When you join the Competitive Team, your gym membership is covered for the whole season, giving you full access to the facility.
-
You’ll need to bring your own gear, including climbing shoes, a harness, a Petzl Grigri belay device with a locking carabiner, and a chalk bag (no chalk buckets). If you’re in categories B, A, or JR, you’ll also need a dynamic lead rope (40m & 9.8mm recommended). A Threshold uniform is required at all practices and competitions.
-
We hold tryouts twice a year, in August and February. It’s your chance to show us what you’ve got and see if the team is the right fit for you.
-
Yes, all Competitive Team members are required to participate in USA Climbing Local Competitions and, if qualified, the Regional, Divisional, and National Championships. Competing is a big part of what we do here.
-
We don’t offer makeup practices. The season schedule is set in advance, and we expect athletes to attend all scheduled practices.
-
No, since we have limited spots on the team, athletes are committed to the full season. Once you’re in, you’re in for the entire season.
-
Parents are required to volunteer at least twice during local events and once during championship-level competitions. Plus, both parents and athletes must sign a code of conduct to ensure everyone’s on the same page.
-
If your child needs to take any medication during practice, it must be self-administered. Alternatively, a family member can come to the gym to administer the medication. Our staff is not authorized to handle or administer any medication.
COMPETITIVE TEAM PERKS
Athletes on the Competitive Team enjoy a range of benefits, including:
20% off gear at our pro shop during the first week
10% off pro shop purchases anytime afterward
Access to expert coaching tailored to competitive success
Supportive team culture that pushes each athlete to perform their best
Focused training environment with a 1:12 instructor ratio
Mandatory participation in USA Climbing competitions, offering valuable experience