VRG Climbing Teams
Here at VRG our mission is to inspire and empower our young athletes to develop into strong, self-confident, and passionate climbers and teammates. We believe that climbing supports and nurtures the values of patience, perseverance, hard work, problem-solving, community, sportspersonship, and brings to life the ideal that “Falling isn’t failing!”
Our vision is to cultivate a thriving community of lifelong climbers who not only work towards their own climbing goals, but also elevate one another through shared experiences and mutual growth. Life is an adventure- join us and we’ll climb to new heights: TOGETHER!
Please reach out to our Climbing Team Manager, johanna@valleyrockgym.com if you have any questions.
application process & Try outs
: : :omp Athlete Application
This short, team-specific form is to be filled out by the athlete themselves. It's a chance for us to hear directly from the climber about their goals, what they enjoy about climbing, and what kind of team experience they’re looking for. Each version of the questionnaire is tailored to the team the athlete is applying for (Rec, Dev, or Comp), so they’ll only need to complete the one that matches their interest.
We strongly encourage parents/guardians to support younger athletes as needed, but we do hope the answers reflect the athlete’s own voice and perspective.
3rd Party Questionnaire (For new Athletes only)
This form should be completed by someone who knows the athlete in a coach-like, instructor, or educator role (not a parent or family member). It gives our coaching team insight into the athlete’s character, motivation, work ethic, and ability to participate in a group learning environment. The responses help us round out our understanding of each athlete beyond what we see in tryouts or have known from previous seasons.
Sign up for Trial Week:
- Rec Team: Monday Jan 4th & Thursday Jan 6th 4:15-5:45pm
- Dev Team U13: Tuesday Jan 5th & Thur Jan 7th 4:15pm-6:15pm
- Dev Team U18: Tuesday Jan 5th & Thur Jan 7th 4:45pm-6:45pm
- Comp Team: We will know if we have spots open on this team by early December
Please note: Athletes must have an active Valley Rock Gym membership or purchase a day pass (1 pass per day) in order to participate in their respective Team's trial week. This can be purchased on the day of the trial.
Mission:
The VRG Team Trial Week (1st week of practice for Winter & Spring seasons) is designed to welcome new athletes and former athletes (athletes who have taken 1+ seasons off) into our team environment, providing an immersive practice experience to help them explore if the team aligns with their goals, capacities, and interests. Simultaneously, it allows coaches to assess these athletes and determine how they fit within the team's culture and expectations. For current athletes (those who participated in the fall season) this week will serve as a continuation of their regular practice schedule, providing stability and consistency while fostering mentorship opportunities with new team members. Our ultimate mission is to ensure every athlete, new or returning, feels supported and are placed on the team that best aligns with their goals.
Environment:
For new and returning athletes, the trial week offers a chance to participate in regular team practices alongside current athletes. These sessions mirror a typical practice structure, including warm-ups, skill development, climbing drills, projecting, and conditioning. This format ensures that new and returning athletes experience the authentic dynamics of team practices, while current athletes maintain their routine and provide examples of teamwork and dedication.
Assessment:
Throughout trial week, athletes will be assessed using the same criteria as the Tryouts
- Motivation and desire to improve
- Coachability and openness to feedback
- Focus and engagement during structured practice
- Willingness to try new things and manage challenges
- Basic movement and climbing technique
- Respect for teammates, coaches, and the climbing community
- Climbing etiquette
These assessments will be informed by the athlete’s performance during practice activities as well as their overall demeanor and engagement. Coaches will collaborate to create a well-rounded understanding of each athlete's strengths, areas for growth, and compatibility with the team.
While we aim to provide opportunities for all interested athletes, our teams do have enrollment caps so that we can maintain a high-quality experience for every participant. Depending on the number of athletes applying, cuts may be necessary. In such cases, assessments will guide the coaching team's decisions, prioritizing placements that best align with the athlete’s readiness, goals, schedule, and compatibility with the team mission and expectations.
For current athletes, this week serves as a continuation of their regular practice schedule, and they will not be re-assessed unless they are seeking to move to a different team.
Recreational Team
Please reach out to johanna@valleyrockgym.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Weekly Schedule (Fall): Tuesday/Thursday 4:00-5:30pm (1.5 hours)
Weekly Schedule (Winter): Monday/Wednesday 4:15-5:45pm (1.5 hours)
Seasons:
Fall Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Tuesday September 29th
End Date: Thursday December 10th
No practice Thanksgiving week
3 weeks off
Winter Season: (10 weeks) (Switching to a M/W schedule)
Start Date: Monday January 4th
End Date: Wednesday March
2 weeks off
Spring Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Monday March 29th
End Date: Monday June 7th
End of Season BBQ: Thursday June 10th
We follow the Corvallis local school district calendars for all major school holidays.
No Practice Days:
● Veterans Day
● Thanksgiving Week
● Christmas Break
● Spring Break
● Memorial Day
The VRG Recreational Team is designed for climbers who love the sport and want to explore it in a fun, supportive setting. With a focus on teamwork and movement exploration, athletes build foundational climbing skills and develop confidence both on and off the wall. In a flexible, low-pressure environment, athletes are encouraged to grow at their own pace with guidance from supportive coaches. The Rec Team emphasizes positive team dynamics and climbing for enjoyment over structured training, laying the groundwork for a strong and joyful connection to the sport.
Recreational Team practices are playful, social, and mindfully structured to support learning through experience. Sessions include movement-focused games, team-building activities, and coach-led guidance in foundational climbing techniques and safety. Practices encourage curiosity, creativity, and self-expression, and offer a consistent space for athletes to climb with peers in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Coaches cultivate a team culture rooted in encouragement and inclusion, where athletes feel safe, supported, and excited to participate, regardless of experience or ability.
- Climbing games and activities that teach fundamental movement patterns, body awareness, creative problem-solving, and teamwork
- Development of basic climbing techniques, including footwork, balance, body positioning, and safe falling practices
- Confidence-building through age-appropriate challenges that help climbers assess risk, overcome fears, and celebrate progress
- Emphasis on teamwork, communication, and peer support to foster friendships and a sense of belonging on and off the wall
- Positive coaching and encouragement that supports each climber’s individual pace and nurtures a growth mindset
- Reinforcement of climbing etiquette and respect for the gym environment.
- Introductory exposure to goal-setting and reflection to help climbers track progress and celebrate effort
Coaches will support and observe each athlete’s growth throughout the season. Rather than formal evaluations or performance benchmarks, assessment on the Recreational Team focuses on each climber’s engagement during practice, willingness to try new skills, ability to collaborate with teammates, and overall enjoyment of the sport. Coaches will provide encouragement, guidance, and individualized feedback to help athletes feel successful and confident as they progress at their own pace. Families are welcome to participate in an optional parent-coach conference once per season to discuss their child’s experience, goals, and development.
The Recreational Team does not participate in formal competitions. Instead, the emphasis is on fun, social connection, and an exploration of movement and personal growth through climbing. For athletes who show increased interest or readiness for more structured training or competition, coaches may offer guidance on next steps, such as trying out for the Development Team. Participation on the Rec Team is about exploring climbing in a low-pressure, joyful way—no competition required.
- 6+ months of consistent climbing experience or has participated in one of our Youth Programs/Teams.
- Eager to learn in a fun, supportive environment.
- Be able to follow instructions, stay engaged during practice, and show respect for coaches, peers, and the gym space.
- A willingness to try new things and participate in group activities is essential.
- All teams require an application, attending tryouts (or trial week), and all coaches' approval in order to join.
Climbers who demonstrate strong engagement, coachability, consistent attendance, and an enthusiasm for skill-building may be invited to try out for the Development Team in a future season. Rec Team athletes who show growing interest in structured training, personal goal-setting, and taking on more challenges are encouraged to speak with their coaches about the next step. Coaches will provide feedback and guidance on readiness and help interested athletes navigate the transition process. Please note that the minimum age for the Development team is 11, unless approved by coaches.
development TeamS
Please reach out to johanna@valleyrockgym.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Fall Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Tuesday September 29th
End Date: Thursday December 10th
No practice Thanksgiving week
3 weeks off
For the Winter and Spring Seasons:
U13 Team:
- Ages: 9-13
- Practice schedule: Tu/Th 4:15-6:15pm
U18 Team:
- Ages: 13-18
- Practice schedule: Tu/Th 4:45-6:45pm
Winter Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Tuesday January 5th
End Date: Thursday March 11th
2 weeks off
Spring Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Tuesday March 30th
End Date: Tuesday June 8th
No practice Thursday May 13th due to Rally in the Valley prep.
End of Season BBQ: Thursday June 10th
We follow the Corvallis local school district calendars for all major school holidays.
No Practice Days:
● Veterans Day
● Thanksgiving Week
● Christmas Break
● Spring Break
Additionally, we will cancel practice on the Thursday before any competition held at Valley Rock Gym due to modified gym access and event set up.
The VRG Development Team is for athletes who are ready to elevate their climbing through structured training and a commitment to growth. Our mission is to help climbers refine their skills, develop consistent training habits, and progress in a supportive team environment, without the pressure of competition. Coaches will help athletes not only set measurable goals but reach them by creating a learning environment that is both engaging and empowering, where challenge is paired with curiosity, enjoyment, and personal ownership.
Development Team practices provide a structured yet flexible environment where athletes are encouraged to challenge themselves while progressing at their own pace. Practices are purposeful and include skill-building, strength work, and mindset development. Coaches foster a team culture rooted in mutual respect, positive peer support, and a growth-oriented mindset.
Athletes are expected to come to practice ready to work hard, try new things, and stay engaged. They should be open to feedback, support their teammates, and demonstrate respect for coaches, teammates, and the climbing community. The environment is collaborative and supportive, prioritizing steady growth and personal development.
- Technical instruction and drills to deepen climbers’ understanding of climbing movement.
- Age-appropriate strength training and injury prevention, introducing foundational exercises to build body awareness, mobility, and safe movement patterns
- Guided mental training to help athletes build resilience, regulate emotions, and approach challenges with a positive, growth-oriented mindset.
- Introduction to projecting strategies, such as breaking down climbs, resting with intention, and visualization.
- Personal goal setting and regular progress check-ins to encourage ownership of growth and foster intrinsic motivation
- Positive coaching and peer collaboration to build confidence and foster a healthy, connected team culture.
- For climbers interested in competition, practices may include exposure to competition-style scenarios to build familiarity with formats and expectations—without placing emphasis on results.
The Development Team coaches will actively track athlete progress in the following aspects:
- Genuine enjoyment of climbing
- Personal goal setting and progress
- Coachability and openness to feedback
- Self-motivation, effort and resilience
- Climbing etiquette and safety awareness
- Positive and supportive attitude
- Technical movement and skill development
- Strength development
- Respect for teammates and contribution to team culture
- Communication skills and teamwork
Development Team athletes may choose to participate in local community competitions. We will have coaches support interested athletes at Rally in the Valley at VRG (Spring Season). This opportunity is optional and framed as experiences for growth, learning, and confidence-building. Our priority is helping athletes understand competition as one potential part of the sport and to provide a positive introduction to what competition climbing can be like.
Climbers who express interest in competition will receive guidance in preparation and mindset, but participation is not required.
- 6+ months of consistent climbing experience or has participated in one of our Youth Programs/Teams
- Climbing etiquette and safety awareness
- A desire to improve and challenge oneself
- Ability to follow instructions and stay engaged during practice
- All teams require an application process, attending tryouts (or trial week), and all coaches' approval in order to join.
Athletes who show strong technical progression, intrinsic motivation, consistent effort, positive team engagement, and an interest in competition may be invited to try out for the Competitive Team in a future season. Coaches will provide feedback and guidance for athletes who may be ready to take that step.
Competitive Team
Please reach out to johanna@valleyrockgym.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Weekly Schedule: Monday &Wednesday 4:00pm-6:30pm, Friday 3-5:30pm
Seasons:
Fall Tryouts:
Wednesday September 2nd & Thursday September 3rd from 4:00pm-6:30pm
Fall Season: (13.5 weeks)
Start Date: Wednesday September 9th
End Date: Friday December 11th
no practice thanksgiving week
3 weeks off
Winter Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Monday January 4th
End Date: Friday March 12th
2 weeks off
Spring Season: (10 weeks)
Start Date: Monday March 29th
End Date: Wednesday June 9th
No practice Fri May 14th due to Rally in the Valley prep.
End of Season BBQ: Thursday June 10th
Practice Breaks & Holidays:
We follow the Corvallis local school district calendars for all major school holidays.
No Practice Days:
- Labor Day
- Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Week
- Christmas Break
- MLK Jr. Day
- President’s Day
- Spring Break
- Memorial Day
Competition Related Breaks:
VRG-Hosted Competitions: We will cancel practice on the Friday before any competition held at Valley Rock Gym due to modified gym access and event setup.
USAC Competitions: We will cancel practice on the Friday before any USAC competition where coaches are attending, to allow athletes adequate rest and recovery before their competition day.
Ropes Practices:
This year, we’ve decided to incorporate a weekly ropes practice for the entire team. Starting September 30, Wednesday practices will be held at Dixon Rec Center from 4:00–6:30 PM. All Competitive Team athletes will participate, regardless of whether they plan to compete in ropes at USAC competitions. Athletes will meet their coaches at the Rec Center and will be responsible for getting themselves to and from practice, as we will not be able to provide transportation.
We’ve made this decision intentionally for a couple of reasons. First, we value having our athletes learn, climb, and train together as a team rather than splitting into separate practices based on competition focus.
Second, we believe rope climbing provides valuable cross-training for everyone on the team. Physically, it develops endurance, stamina, pacing, and body awareness in ways that complement bouldering. Mentally, it gives athletes the opportunity to work on skills like managing fear, staying focused while fatigued, and navigating challenges that may feel different from those they encounter on the bouldering wall.
Lastly, athletes who are at least 14 years old will have the opportunity to learn lead climb if that is something they are interested in!
The VRG Competitive Team is designed for dedicated young climbers who are intrinsically motivated to grow, train, and challenge themselves in pursuit of personal and competitive progress. Our mission is to cultivate resilience, focus, and a love for the process within a rigorous yet supportive team environment.
Through structured training, advanced skill development, and a strong emphasis on attitude and mindset, athletes learn to approach climbing and competition with confidence, resilience, and self-awareness. The Comp Team fosters a culture of commitment, coachability, and team spirit - where climbers are driven by their passion for the sport and find joy in both their individual growth and their place within the team and the broader climbing community.
The Competitive Team requires a high level of commitment and a desire to engage deeply in the process of growth. Practices offer a structured, purposeful environment centered on skill development, strength building, and cultivating a resilient mindset. Sessions are focused and challenging, encouraging athletes to embrace discomfort as an essential part of learning to manage the physical and mental demands of climbing and competition.
Athletes are expected to arrive ready to work hard, try new things, stay engaged, and support their teammates. Comp Team climbers should find joy in the process of pursuing their potential and be driven to train, grow, and contribute to a collaborative, supportive team environment. They should embrace feedback, approach challenges with a positive mindset, and demonstrate respect for their coaches, peers, and the broader climbing community.
Coaches intentionally foster a team culture rooted in mutual respect, positive peer support, and a growth-oriented mindset. While training is demanding, we also prioritize joy, curiosity, and a love of movement - striking a balance between pushing limits and sustaining passion.
- Development of advanced climbing techniques and refined movement skills
- Age-appropriate strength training, conditioning, and injury prevention exercises
- Education on recovery practices, including listening to the body, incorporating rest, sports nutrition and avoiding overtraining
- Mental training that emphasizes resilience, focus, emotional regulation, and maintaining a positive mindset through challenges
- Personal goal setting and regular progress check-ins to encourage ownership of the growth process
- Individualized performance tracking to monitor progress and guide development
- Tactical competition strategies, including both physical execution and mental preparation
- Leadership development, self-reflection, and team-building activities to foster accountability and a positive team culture
- Feedback-driven coaching within a challenging yet supportive environment.
The Comp. Team coaches will actively track athlete progress in the following aspects:
- Genuine enjoyment of climbing
- Personal goal setting and progress
- Coachability and openness to feedback
- Self-motivation and internal drive
- Climbing etiquette and safety awareness
- Having a positive mindset
- Resilience
- Technical movement and skill development
- Strength development
- Respect for teammates and contribution to team culture
- Communication skills and teamwork
- Integration into our larger VRG community
Note: While we will continue to assess athletes' growth in these areas, it is expected that all Competitive Team athletes already demonstrate these foundational skills. The Comp Team provides an environment for athletes to further refine and deepen their abilities as they pursue higher levels of performance.
The VRG Comp. Team’s goal for competition is to foster a healthy internal competitive drive and prepare athletes for external expression of this drive at USAC comps. USA Climbing is the national governing body of competitive climbing in the United States. See Region 12 – USA Climbing for further details.
Comp Team athletes are required to participate in at least 1 USAC sanctioned competition for the Fall and Winter Seasons. Due to the USAC schedule, athletes will not be required to compete in the Spring season).
Our team follows USA Climbing’s annual schedule for Bouldering and Rope seasons. Boulder and Lead/Top Rope events will run from October through February.
Youth Regional Championships will take place in March (Bouldering) and May (Lead/Top Rope). Divisional Championships will take place in April (Bouldering) and June (Lead/Top Rope). You can find the full 2026–2027 Youth Season Schedule in the Youth Resources section on the USAC website.
Team practices are structured to support preparation for these events. Athletes will be encouraged to focus on one discipline, either Bouldering or Lead/Top Rope.
Competing in both disciplines may be an option for athletes who demonstrate the physical and mental capacity to do so. This decision must be made in collaboration with the athlete, their coaches, and parents.
- 6+ months of consistent climbing experience or has participated in one of our Youth Programs/Teams.
- Must have impeccable climbing etiquette.
- Have internal drive to improve as a climber and competitive athlete.
- Have a desire to compete in USAC.
- All teams require an application process, attending tryouts (or trial week), and all coaches' approval in order to join.
Valley Rock Gym
401 Southwest Jefferson Avenue, Corvallis, Oregon 97333
Winter Youth Program Registration is OPEN!
For youth ages 4–14, we provide hands-on learning experiences that spark a love of movement, build solid climbing skills, and nurture a sense of comfort, community, and fun - empowering young climbers to take on the challenges and joys of climbing and life!