Violich Family Mental Health Grant

USA Cycling is committed to protecting mental health of athletes. The grant ensures finances are not a barrier to athletes receiving professional mental health support. Applications accepted year-round.

Eligibility Requirements:

• All existing Elite Athlete Health Insurance (EAHI), USOPC Mental Health Assistance Fund, NGB resources, contract team resources, and personal health insurance options have been exhausted or deemed inappropriate
• In past two years, athlete has represented the United States (required to wear USA National Team jersey) in Junior, U23 or Elite Competition
• Must have current UCI international license
• Minimum age: 17 years old
• Contact Kelsey Erickson (kerickson@usacycling.org) if unsure about exhausting other options
• USA Cycling reserves right to make exceptions to eligibility requirements at sole discretion

Eligible Expenses:

• Payment for mental health services and/or treatment
• Payment for nutritional/dietary support recommended/requested alongside mental health services
• Services MUST be rendered by licensed mental health provider and/or licensed dietician

Non-Eligible Expenses:

• Payment for mental performance services
• Reimbursement/invoices from previous calendar years

Grant Distribution Options:

1. Reimburse individuals for eligible receipts submitted to kerickson@usacycling.org
2. Setup direct payment with provider (if willing)
3. USA Cycling network of licensed providers with scaled pricing available

Review Process:

• Confidential applications accessed only by limited personnel outside Sport Performance
• Applicants notified within 14 days of submission
• Grants awarded based on fund availability
• Applications secure and confidential

Mental Health Crisis Support:
Team USA Psychological Services Support Line: +1.719.866.2255

Background: Named for Wyatt Weisel (1965-2017), accomplished cyclist and 2008 Masters Team Pursuit National Champion who mentored 48 junior athletes through NCCF/Team Specialized program.

Application Process

1. Submit Application: Accepted year-round via online portal
2. Provide Documentation:
   • Evidence that other funding sources exhausted/inappropriate
   • Proof of USA National Team representation (past 2 years)
   • Current UCI international license copy
   • Quotes/estimates from licensed providers
3. Distribution Planning:
   • Discuss reimbursement vs. direct payment option
   • USA Cycling can help identify network providers for scaled pricing
4. Timeline: Notification within 14 days of submission
5. Contact: Kelsey Erickson at kerickson@usacycling.org for eligibility questions