Maurice Jones first joined BCYC in 2019. Today, he’s a college graduate, a working professional, and someone preparing for the next major chapter of his life. His journey is a reminder of why this work matters and how the program can support students thriving both on and off the bike.
The Beginning: From Curiosity to Commitment
Maurice started BCYC in the spring of 2019 where he was introduced to the program at Roxborough High School through school staff and coaches. He recalls the moment clearly and for him, it immediately clicked.
“Before I even met them, back home in Jamaica, I used to fix and build bikes. Mostly
BMX bikes. I’d build them, fix them up, and ride.”
So when cycling showed up at school, it didn’t feel random — it felt familiar.
“It wasn’t road bikes or racing at first. It was just something I already knew how to do.”
Before joining the youth cycling program, Maurice was already active, playing for the soccer team. But cycling offered something different, “I didn’t just try it and leave,” he explained. It was something he could stick with.
Commitment followed his curiosity and Maurice earned the recognition of a BCYC All-Star, a group of student athletes who embody the core principles of BCYC: leadership, teamwork, and commitment meeting our attendance requirements, excelling in both written and on-bike observation tests, and consistently demonstrating positive attitudes.
As an All-Star, Maurice was eligible to apply for a BCYC scholarship which he received, a moment he still remembers fondly.
“I had to write a two or three page essay. I don’t even remember what it was about, but I remember spending days reworking it. I was nervous about the outcome, but in the end I got the scholarship”
He gave himself to the program and the program gave back in return. When asked what cycling really gave him, Maurice doesn’t hesitate.
“Discipline. Structure. Consistency.”
Cycling shaped his everyday habits in high school: “Before Saturday rides, I’d make sure my bed was made. My room was straight. That felt like the right way to start the day.”
That mindset followed him into college, where Maurice knew he had to stay consistent and structured.
“I [made] sure [to] submit my assignments on time. If I [needed] help, I [didn’t] wait until the last minute to reach out to professors.”
He stayed connected to BCYC too, getting involved with the Youth Advisory Council and staying in touch with his mentor.
“BCYC is a family you don’t know you need. But when you do, it’s there.”
During Maurice’s junior year of college, his father passed away. Maurice missed almost half of December as he traveled back home for the funeral and to be present for his family. Cycling wasn’t immediately available to him during that time — but when he returned, it became a source of peace.“When I ride, it’s peace of mind. I don’t worry about problems or anything I got going on.”
What made the difference wasn’t just the riding — it was the people, in particular Coach Blake, who was Maurice’s mentor and continues to check in whenever they see each other.
“[When] you’re riding with a group, with teammates, you see different scenery. You talk about life. That’s something special.”
“When I think of BCYC, I think of family. You have people who care, mentors, and if you ever need to talk, there’s always someone there.”
Looking Ahead
Maurice graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, from Chestnut Hill College. Today, he works at Horizon House as a Residential Living Specialist, a position he’s held for more than two years.
He’s thinking about career changes, long-term stability, and building a future including preparing for some major milestones. The first: getting married this year.
Cycling remains part of the picture.
“I might not train the same way I used to, but I’m definitely still riding.”
For anyone unsure about joining BCYC — as a young person, parent, or supporter — his message is simple.
“BCYC is a family you might not think you need. But when you do, it’s there.”
