Scholastic Climbing
Scholastic competitive climbing is available in Massachusetts through the American Scholastic Climbing League (ASCL).
The American Scholastic Climbing League (ASCL) is a nonprofit organization that provides competitive climbing opportunities for students in grades 6–12. The season runs from November through February and includes local and regional competitions that lead to Regional Championships, State Championships (where applicable), and National Championships.
The league is open to climbers of all skill levels. Athletes compete both individually and as part of school-based teams, but you don't need your school to sponsor a team or provide a coach in order to participate.
Why Start a School Climbing Team?
Climbing is a unique sport where students of all experience levels can participate, improve, and succeed. A scholastic climbing team helps students develop:
Confidence and perseverance
Problem-solving and goal-setting skills
Strength, focus, and resilience
Teamwork and friendships
A lifelong connection to climbing
No previous climbing experience is required! Students can join as beginners and grow alongside teammates in a positive, encouraging environment.
How To Start A Team
Gather Interest
Start by finding students who are interested in climbing and creating a group of potential team members. Students of all experience levels are encouraged to participate, from beginners who are new to climbing, to experienced climbers looking for a competitive team environment.
Connect with the Regional Director
Once you have a group of interested students, contact the ASCL Regional Director to learn about the next steps for forming your team.
The Regional Director can answer questions, provide information about ASCL participation, connect your school with local climbing resources, and guide your team through the practices and competition process.
Our gym is proud to support the growth of scholastic climbing by providing a dedicated place for ASCL school teams to practice and train.
We offer flexible options to meet the needs of different school programs. Teams can choose the level of support that works best for their students and goals:
PRactice with US!
Option 1: Gym Access + Practice Slot
Schools can reserve a dedicated practice time at our gym and use the facility as their team’s training location. This option provides students with access to our climbing terrain and allows schools to organize practices with their own team coach or advisor.
Option 2: In HOuse Coaching
For schools looking for additional support, our gym offers an in-house coaching option. Our experienced coaches can will help lead practices, develop climbing skills, prepare athletes for ASCL competitions, and provide guidance throughout the season.
Both options provide students with a safe, supportive environment to train, improve, and become part of the growing scholastic climbing community.
We are excited to partner with schools in our region by making competitive climbing more accessible and helping teams build successful ASCL programs.