What's Happening?
Cal State Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) has established California's inaugural varsity collegiate cycling program. The program officially commenced on September 2, with the signing of its first student-cyclist, Alejandro Che, a third-year kinesiology student.
Che recently secured the United States Under-23 Criterium National Championship in West Virginia and is slated to compete in the 2026 USA Cycling Collegiate Track National Championships in Indiana. The university's campus is home to the VELO Sports Center, one of only three active velodromes in the U.S., which is also designated to host the Olympic track cycling races in 2028. Travis Smith, manager of the VELO Sports Center and a 30-time Canadian national cycling champion, will serve as the team's coach, aiming for at least one national championship win. The initiative is a collaborative effort supported by USA Cycling and AEG.
Why It's Important?
The launch of this program by CSUDH marks a significant development for collegiate athletics in California, providing a new pathway for student-athletes in cycling. It addresses a long-standing challenge for cyclists who often have to choose between pursuing higher education and competing in their sport due to a lack of collegiate teams and facilities. The program's direct connection to the VELO Sports Center, an Olympic-level venue, offers unparalleled training and competitive opportunities. This integration could elevate the profile of collegiate cycling and attract top talent, potentially fostering future Olympic athletes. Furthermore, the program's alignment with the 2028 Olympic track cycling events at the same location creates a unique synergy, offering both the university and its athletes enhanced visibility and resources.
What's Next?
The newly formed CSUDH cycling team, under the guidance of Coach Travis Smith, will immediately focus on preparing for upcoming competitions, with Alejandro Che participating in the 2026 USA Cycling Collegiate Track National Championships. The program will likely continue to recruit student-cyclists, expanding its roster and competitive reach. The presence of the VELO Sports Center on campus, set to host the 2028 Olympic track cycling races, will provide a long-term strategic advantage, potentially attracting more funding, partnerships, and high-caliber athletes. The university will also likely work to integrate the program further into its athletic department and academic offerings, leveraging the unique opportunities presented by its world-class facility.
Beyond the Headlines
This initiative by CSUDH could serve as a model for other universities looking to expand their athletic programs into niche sports, particularly those with Olympic relevance. It highlights the potential for institutions to leverage existing infrastructure and strategic partnerships to create unique educational and athletic opportunities. The program also underscores a broader trend of increasing recognition and support for cycling as a collegiate sport, which could lead to more diverse athletic offerings across U.S. universities. Ethically, it addresses the dilemma faced by many young athletes who must choose between academic and athletic pursuits, offering a more integrated path for their development.
