Youth Teams

Touchstone’s Youth Team Program is divided into four levels—Club, Development, Training, and Competition—climbers are placed based on age, experience, maturity, and goals. Climbers will develop the technique, strength, and confidence required for competitive and outdoor climbing in a fun and rigorous training environment. Each team has specific prerequisites, goals, and expectations. 

Learning Objectives

All Youth Team climbers will:

  • Analyze and refine climbing techniques
  • Evaluate and uphold climbing gym etiquette and safety practices
  • Integrate mental and physical training into on-the-wall practice
  • Show respect towards coaches and peers to cultivate a positive team environment
  • Demonstrate motivation to advance climbing pursuits

Program Progression

Our Youth Team structure is informed by the American Development Model (ADM) and Canada’s Long-Term Development (LTD) framework—two evidence-based models that guide youth athletic growth. Each team level is designed to meet climbers where they are developmentally, offering age-appropriate challenges and learning outcomes.

Club Team

Climbing Students

Ages 7-17 | 1-2 days/week

The entry-level team is designed for climbers new to structured training. Participants must have completed at least one climbing camp or 3+ months of climbing experience in the past year. Kids Club (7-11) and Youth Club (12-17) practice once or twice a week, focusing on foundational climbing skills, gym etiquette, and confidence-building exercises. This level emphasizes observation, learning, and a love for the sport. 

Program Schedule Initiation Fee Monthly Dues Age
Kids Club Mondays from 4pm-6pm $50 $175 8-11
Youth Club Tuesdays from 4pm-6pm $50 $175 12-18
Youth Club Wednesdays from 4pm-6pm $50 $175 12-18

Join the Club Team!

Entry into the Club Team is by assessment and approval from a coach. Fill out the interest form to be placed on the wait list for a Club Team at Diablo Rock Gym.

Team Touchstone

Team Touchstone is for climbers ages 7–18 committed to advancing through structured training and a team-based environment. While Diablo Rock Gym does not currently offer Team Touchstone, options may be available at nearby Touchstone gyms. Contact us to learn more.

Climber Expectations

All Youth Team climbers agree to program expectations and codes of conduct, including: 

  • Regular practice attendance
  • Competition participation
  • Respect for coaches and teammates
  • Commitment to safety, perseverance, and sportsmanship
  • Serving as program ambassadors during and outside of practice

Membership Support

Touchstone Climbing offers membership support for those who are experiencing significant financial instability and who otherwise would not have access to the gym. Please contact Member Services or your Gym Manager for more information.