This year’s mountain biking team was one of the smallest teams they’ve had in awhile, but they continued to put in the hard work to be competitive. There were eight racers, with only two being WHS students: senior Joe Vorce and junior Keira Mostaffa.

   Racers feel supported and accepted by the mountain biking community.

   “I enjoy the environment at races most, how everyone always tries to be supportive and encouraging to one another,” Junior Keira Mostaffa said.

   “My favorite thing about mountain biking is the community you get involved with, everyone is very supportive,” senior Joe Vorce said.

   Mostaffa finished the season as state champion. She has been racing for three years. 

  “I started racing my freshman year and instantly got locked in. I really enjoy the aspect of it being an individual sport,” Mostaffa said.

   Vorce has just completed his senior year of racing. Vorce is a nine-time state champion, he has raced at nationals once, and is a junior pro racer. 

   “I grew up riding my whole life because my dad did it his whole life and was also pro in his earlier days,” Vorce said.

   Coach Mac Vorce has been mountain biking for years and enjoys sharing his love for biking.

   “As a downhill rider I traveled the National and World circuit then got picked up as a mechanic for the Park tool GT race team support crew.  I have also been a trail builder. Truman Lake mountain bike park and the Shawnee Bend trails are huge achievements.  It helps our community immensely and gives our students one of the best training grounds,” Vorce said. 

   Vorce was the driving force behind the team getting started.

   “I just love riding bikes. The best part of coaching is watching a rider become more confident, stronger and mentally strong. To watch champions being formed is amazing. The mountain bike community is amazing, and mega supportive!  The Missouri NICA league is one of the strongest in the nation.  The Wildcats are definitely a team that is known across the state,” he said.