Junior Teams

The Junior Teams are the foundation of USA Triathlon’s elite pathway, supporting young athletes as they begin their high-performance journey.

Designed for developing competitors with the potential to reach the elite and Olympic or Paralympic levels, the program emphasizes skill development, long-term progression, and a love for the sport.

With several programs for Junior athletes, USA Triathlon is here to support the development of young athletes as they dream, plan and reach their goals.

Developing the Future of the Sport 

  • Youth & Junior Elite

    Talented Youth (ages 13-15) and Junior (ages 16-19) athletes have the opportunity to learn from the best USA Triathon Certified Coaches, join a high performance team and race elite competition to help fuel their development in the sport.

    Most Junior Elites are encouraged to finish out their eligibility in the junior division before advancing to the U23 races, which are often competed at the longer Olympic-distance.

    Learn more below and for more information, please email juniors@usatriathlon.org.


    LEARN MORE, opens in a new tab
  • Development Pathways

    The USA Triathlon Development Pathway maps out how athletes can advance through the sport at every stage.

    From youth and high school racing to collegiate, NCAA, and elite levels, the pathway highlights the programs, competitions, and training environments that support growth.

    Whether your goal is local success or the Olympic Games, this framework shows the opportunities available to help you get there.

    Learn More
  • High Performance Teams

    The USA Triathlon High Performance Team program aims to increase the number and quality of developmental programs serving teenage and developmental elite athletes across the nation.

    HPTs play an integral role in the identification, recruitment, development, and age-appropriate competitive preparation of emerging Youth, Junior, and U23 athletes. These teams also maintain strict adherence to USADA and Safe Sport standards.

    2025 High Performance Teams Roster (PDF)

    2025 CRITERIA AND APPLICATION, opens in a new tab

Event

Date

Location

Texas Draft-Legal Triathlon Festival

April 12, 2026

Fort Worth, TX

East Coast Triathlon Festival

May 3, 2026

Richmond, VA

Pleasant Prairie Cup

May 31, 2026

Pleasant Prairie, WI

Jenny Lee Tri Cup

June 13-14, 2026

Beaver Falls, PA

Flatland Cup Triathlon

July 12, 2026

West Des Moines, IA

Youth and Junior Nationals

Aug. 1-2, 2026

West Chester, OH