Reaching New Heights: A Q&A with Asheville School’s Climbing Coach, Steven Keiser
Asheville School’s competitive climbing program has experienced remarkable growth over the past three years, with students competing at local, regional, divisional, and national levels. Under the leadership of Coach Steven Keiser, the program has not only achieved impressive results in competitions but has also cultivated a culture of discipline, perseverance, and camaraderie. As our climbers continue to push themselves both indoors and outdoors, we are excited to see how this momentum carries the program to new heights. In this Q&A, Coach Keiser shares his insights on the program’s trajectory, upcoming goals, and what makes Asheville School’s climbing community so special.
The competitive climbing program has grown significantly in the last three years. What excites you most about the trajectory of this program for our students?
As the climbing program continues to grow and our students gain more experience and confidence, the sky is the limit. The opportunity to compete at various levels—local, regional, divisional, and national—is incredible. Taking those skills outdoors and exploring the beautiful mountains around us is the icing on the cake. I am excited to see our students grow both as athletes and individuals through the many lessons climbing offers. These include mental and physical discipline, technical skills, risk management, planning, perseverance, and becoming good stewards of the environment and the greater climbing community. I envision our JV and varsity teams continuing to grow in both culture and success at competitions.
What are the team’s goals for the Lead Climbing season following a successful Bouldering season?
Despite Helene’s disruption to the competition landscape this year, we are looking forward to a strong showing. Nico has already competed over spring break and took first place, qualifying for the Regional Championships. For some of our newer climbers who are looking to break into the Lead competition world, this will be an excellent opportunity to gain experience and understand the systems and processes involved to prepare for next year.
What are the biggest factors contributing to our climbing team’s success, both collectively and individually?
Collectively, the biggest factor contributing to our team’s success is the buy-in from the school and staff. Investing in the program through physical developments, such as purchasing new holds and routesetting, while also contributing “stoke” to the culture of the climbing program has been hugely beneficial.
Individually, success comes down to the climbers themselves. They can only go as far as the work they are willing to put in, and our athletes have demonstrated remarkable dedication to learning, training, and pushing themselves and their teammates. They know how to work hard and have a lot of fun in the process!
Nico Carrera ’28 has achieved impressive results this year, earning spots to showcase his abilities at the regional and national levels. What makes you most proud of his accomplishments?
Nico arrived at school with an impressive resume and extensive competition experience. While it is always exciting to see him place high or win competitions, I am most proud of the work he has put into inspiring and connecting with his teammates and other Mountaineers. He has introduced a high standard and been a real asset to the program by showing others what is possible at the highest levels. I have seen this motivation trickle down to other climbers, pushing them to work harder and see what is possible for themselves.
What is one piece of advice you would give to those interested in or new to climbing, whether recreationally or competitively?
You can do it—do not let it intimidate you!
You do not have to be climbing the highest walls or tackling the hardest boulders to have fun. Climbing is highly customizable, and it can grow with you however you choose. It can be as easy or as challenging, adventurous or comfortable, social or personal, and fun or relaxing as you want it to be. Climbing is something you can enjoy for a lifetime. Most cities now have gyms that are very beginner-friendly, and the climbing community is always willing to help. Just take the first step!
Is there anything else you would like to share about our climbing students, program, or coaching?
We are going places! Whether through competition or recreation, we are constantly learning and growing. This group of staff and students is putting in the work to be the best possible version of themselves. Climbing as a competitive high school sport is still young, and we are truly pioneering what it means to build a successful program. I could not be more excited to see where we go from here!