USAC
Wyatt Weisel

Mental Health Grant

Program Overview

USA Cycling is committed to protecting the mental health of its athletes. The Mental Health Grant aims to ensure finances are not a barrier to athletes receiving professional mental health support. Eligible athletes can receive up to $1,500 a year in support of their mental health. Applications are accepted year-round. 

Eligibility
  • 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 the past two years, the athlete has represented the United States (i.e., been required to where the USA National Team jersey) in Junior, U23 or Elite Competition 
  • Athlete must have a current UCI international license  
  • Athlete must be a minimum of 17 years old

*Contact Kelsey Erickson  if you need help determining if this has happened 

USA Cycling reserves the right to make exceptions to these eligibility requirements at its sole discretion. 

Athlete expenses eligible to be covered by the Grant include: 

  • Payment for mental health services and/or treatment 
  • Payment for nutritional/dietary support recommended or requested alongside mental health services and/or treatment 

Treatment and/or services MUST be rendered by a licensed mental health provider and/or licensed dietician. 

Athlete expenses not eligible for reimbursement include: 

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

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to the Team USA Psychological Services Support Line at +1.719.866.2255. 

 
Grant Distribution Options

Once approved for a grant, USA Cycling can either: 

  1. Reimburse individuals for eligible receipts submitted to Kelsey Erickson at kerickson@usacycling.org
  2. Setup direct payment with a provider (if they are willing)  

USA Cycling has a network of licensed providers who have agreed to scaled pricing. To maximize the reach of your grant, we suggest utilizing our network where possible. We will work with you to identify options for you and get you the best rates possible. We will discuss options in the follow-up to your grant application submission. 

 

 

Review Process and Grant Awards

Grant applications will remain secure and confidential and will only be accessed by limited personnel within USA Cycling but outside of Sport Performance to confirm applicants’ eligibility.  

Grant applicants will be notified within 14 days of applying for the grant of the outcome of their application. Grants will be awarded based on the availability of funds. 

Wyatt Weisel Memorial
ABOUT WYATT WEISEL

Wyatt Weisel, a great friend and member of the USA Cycling community, passed away December 11, 2017 after a long battle with lupus. Wyatt loved the challenge, camaraderie, and teamwork required for bicycle racing. He was a great competitor, accomplished bike racer and a member of the 2008 Masters Team Pursuit National Champions. His illness took away his racing, but did not diminish his drive to help others. Wyatt served as Chairman of the Northern California Cycling Foundation for 11 years. He successfully mentored 48 junior athletes through the NCCF/ Team Specialized program. During this time, the team produced 34 National Championships, participated in 38 European trips, and for all 11 years was awarded the USA Cycling Center of Excellence designation. Wyatt’s family has established a memorial fund in his honor to continue supporting cycling development.