ASCL School League
American Scholastic Climbing League at APEX
American Scholastic Climbing League (ASCL) at APEX
APEX is proud to host teams competing in the American Scholastic Climbing League (ASCL), a national organization that brings competitive climbing to middle and high school students across the country. The ASCL provides young climbers with opportunities to compete, grow, and connect with peers who share their passion for the sport.
What is ASCL?
The American Scholastic Climbing League is the premier competitive climbing program for students in grades 6-12. Founded on the principles of inclusivity, personal growth, and community building, ASCL creates a supportive environment where young athletes can:
- •Compete at their level: ASCL divisions accommodate climbers of all abilities, from beginners to advanced athletes
- •Build confidence: Competition focuses on personal improvement and team support rather than just winning
- •Develop life skills: Climbing teaches problem-solving, perseverance, goal-setting, and mental resilience
- •Form lasting friendships: Teams create strong bonds through shared challenges and mutual encouragement
- •Prepare for the future: Many ASCL alumni go on to compete in college climbing programs and beyond
ASCL at APEX: Building Champions On and Off the Wall
Our ASCL teams train in APEX's professional facilities, with access to:
🧗♂️Indoor bouldering and roped climbing walls designed for skill development and competition preparation
🏋️24/7 fitness center access for strength and conditioning training
🧘♀️Recovery and wellness resources including spa facilities and yoga classes
☕Community spaces in our café for team bonding and study sessions
Season Structure & Competition
The ASCL season typically runs from October through March, with:
- •Regular practice sessions 2-3 times per week at APEX
- •Local competitions hosted at climbing gyms throughout the region
- •Regional championships bringing together the best teams from across the Southeast
- •National championships for qualifying teams and individual climbers
Team Philosophy: More Than Just Climbing
At APEX, our ASCL teams embody our core values of community, growth, and excellence. We believe that climbing is a vehicle for developing:
- •Physical strength and coordination
- •Mental toughness and focus
- •Problem-solving and strategic thinking
- •Leadership and teamwork skills
- •Confidence and self-reliance
- •Respect for others and the environment
Joining Our ASCL Team
APEX welcomes climbers of all experience levels to try out for our ASCL teams. Whether you're brand new to climbing or have been on the wall for years, we have a place for you. Our program includes:
- •Beginner-friendly divisions for new climbers
- •Advanced training groups for experienced competitors
- •Flexible scheduling to accommodate school and other activities
- •Family-friendly environment that welcomes parents and siblings
- •Scholarship opportunities for families who need financial assistance
Building the Next Generation
The ASCL program at APEX is about more than just competitive climbing—it's about building the next generation of leaders, problem-solvers, and confident young adults. Through the challenges and triumphs of competition, our athletes learn that they're capable of more than they ever imagined.
How ASCL Teams Work at APEX
📋APEX assists with registration and hosts the events. APEX helps climbers and families navigate ASCL registration and hosts ASCL practice sessions and competition events at our facility.
🤝Teams are coached by school-associated volunteers. ASCL teams are coached by volunteers associated with each school—not by APEX staff. APEX provides the venue, training facilities, and event support, while the school community supplies the coaching leadership.
👥A team needs at least 3 athletes from the same school. Forming an ASCL team requires a minimum of three student athletes to register from the same middle school or high school. Add your name to the interest list below and APEX will help connect you with other climbers from your school.
Ready to Join?
If you're a middle or high school student interested in competitive climbing, or a parent looking for a positive, challenging activity for your child, we'd love to meet you. Come visit APEX, meet our coaches, and see what ASCL climbing is all about.
Contact us today to learn more about tryouts, practice schedules, and how to get started with ASCL at APEX.
Answer your higher calling. Join the team.