High Performance Strategic Plan Cycling

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN CYCLING HIGH PERFORMANCE STRATEGIC PLAN Prepared and published by: WestCycle Incorporated

With funding and support from: Department of Sport and Recreation

Contact: WestCycle Incorporated [email protected] www.westcycle.org.au

Acknowledgements: WestCycle would like to acknowledge the contribution of the Western Australian cycling community in the development of this document.

Photography: Various Sources

Design: Media on Mars, Fremantle, WA

Copyright: The information contained in this document may be copied provided prior approval is received from WestCycle and that full acknowledgement is made. CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2 01 HIGH PERFORMANCE VISION 4 02 CURRENT ENVIRONMENTS 8 Track 9 Road 13 Mountain Bike 17 BMX 21 03 FUTURE FOCUS 26 RESOURCES 40 GLOSSARY 44

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

WestCycle the peak body of cycling their best in state, national and development environment. Strong in Western Australia has prepared international competition. consultation with the Western this High Performance Plan to In addition, the high performance Australian Institute of Sport help shape the successful future environment must nurture and (WAIS) and the development of high performance cycling across identify Western Australia’s next of stronger centralised shared all disciplines. This specific plan generation of athletes, providing resources pathways will result in is focusing on the state talent the right support at the right time not only greater success at a high development area (13-19 years of to ensure Western Australian performance level but also an age.) All disciplines are aligned to athletes continue to achieve increase in participation numbers the Winning Edge aims, which are: international sporting success. from grass roots upwards. The Top 5 nation at the Olympic and A successful high performance plan includes an analysis of the Paralympics. Number 1 nation at environment at the state level will current cycling environment across the Commonwealth Games. 20+ help shape our national sporting all disciplines followed by a future World championships winners success. It will also help create focus that will showcase key annually. WestCycle is central a culture of “living excellence” strategic outcomes as well as to Western Australia’s high for athletes, coaches, clubs, a description of resource allocation, performance system within cycling officials and all stakeholders operational objectives and key and is responsible for delivering/ involved. Within this document personnel required to create a assisting with high performance will be the vision and strategies sustainable high performance cycling. Our role is to create required for WestCycle and all cycling environment. environments that support coaches, our member associations to athletes and teams to perform at grow a sustainable state athlete

2 METHODOLOGY The Brian Miller review into high WESTCYCLE HIGH PERFORMANCE VISION performance cycling released in April 2013 has been extensively used throughout this document as CYCLING well as the Department of Sport WAMBA BMXWA WAIS DSR AUSTRALIA and Recreation facilitated reviews across all disciplines completed in 2015. Key areas of concern as well as opportunities have CYCLE PROFESSIONAL RACING been identified from both the SPORT WA TEAMS report and further research. This information has then been used to create key strategic outcomes that will help deliver a high CLUBS CLUBS CLUBS performance environment across all cycling disciplines. Additionally, the following procedures/ stakeholders have COACHES COACHES been engaged to provide direction and informative opinions as to how the high performance environment should be shaped in WA. WestCycle would like to thank all stakeholders for their engagement and support of the High Performance Plan.

3 01 HIGH PERFORMANCE VISION

STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT CULTURE AND VALUES BENCHMARK TARGETS Within this section, the current values and culture of cycling in WA will be examined. From this, new bench mark targets and goals will be identified to measure the success of our planned state development environment for all cycling disciplines.

4 INTRODUCTION Western Australian Cycling’s High While this plan focus is 2016-2020 focus and the resources necessary Performance Plan 2016-2020 will some of the structure will have a for us to deliver on our overarching provide structure, investment, long-term focus beyond 2020. We goals and benchmark targets. and accountability across all believe these targets will serve It is our vision that cycling at a cycling disciplines in Western to provide a clear focus and a state level in Western Australian Australia. It will identify where strategically consistent approach will significantly improve. This investment is needed within to operational decisions and improvement will be measured via cycling in order to provide a clear investment. This plan covers the the bench mark targets and KPI’s focus on obtaining successful sport’s high performance vision, associated with the relevant state outcomes at benchmark events. the current environment, the future development environment.

WestCycle TARGET: Increase the number of West Australian Cyclists winning medals at National Championships.

# 1 ranked state across Minimum 2 athletes all disciplines by 2020. transitioned to WAIS annually.

5 OUR VISION To create a Western Australian high performance environment with strategic alignment, strong culture and values which in turn will create a champions mindset to increase the number of National Champions.

STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT WESTCYCLE’S HIGH PERFORMANCE An important aim of this plan is to ensure there is VALUES strategic alignment across all cycling disciplines as well Commitment as relevant National Sporting Associations (NSO). This Holistic athlete development alignment will provide clarity amongst our community Resource maximisation and ensure there is a shared strategic direction, vision Collaboration and focus across all our external stakeholders - this will Communication create optimisation of available resources. Integrity across our high performance programme.

CULTURE AND VALUES DEVELOPMENT OF A CHAMPION MINDSET A key focus throughout the period of this plan will be on the promotion of sound values and a positive culture. Some people have a misconception about how This High Performance Plan will adopt a new approach champions think and act. They might be influenced by to the culture of high performance cycling in Western an extrovert who’s a champion. Yet the real champion Australia. Based on sound values which are consistent doesn’t go around beating their chest. The champion’s with today’s environment and the principles of best response is “It is about how I perform, winning is a by- practice, which reflect the behavioural and cultural product of performance on the day”. standards to which we aspire.1

6 BENCHMARK TARGETS These benchmark targets below will be used as key measuring tools to assess the success of the high performance environment of each discipline. These targets are subject to change and will be reviewed on a half yearly basis.

DATE DISCIPLINE EVENT AGE BRACKET TARGET

Feb 2017 Track Nationals U 17/U15 Podium >3 Feb 2018 Track Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion Feb 2019 Track Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion >2 Feb 2020 Track Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion > 4

Sep 2017 Road Nationals U 17/U15 Podium >3 Sep 2018 Road Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion Sep 2019 Road Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion >2 Sep 2020 Road Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion > 4

Feb 2017 BMX Nationals 8-16 years* Podium >6 Feb 2018 BMX Nationals 8-16 years* National Champion>1 Feb 2019 BMX Nationals 8-16 years* National Champion>2 Feb 2020 BMX Nationals 8-16 years* National Champion>4

Mar 2017 MTB Nationals U 17/U15 Podium >1 Mar 2018 MTB Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion>1 Mar 2019 MTB Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion>2 Mar 2020 MTB Nationals U 17/U15 National Champion>4

* BMX HP environment begins at 13 years of age.

7 02 CURRENT ENVIRONMENTS

SITUATION ANALYSIS PERFORMANCE BARRIERS ATHLETE PATHWAYS Within this section of the plan, the current environment of each discipline will be analysed. This will result in the identification of performance barriers and the creation of updated and documented athlete development pathways.

8 TRACK CURRENT ENVIRONMENT

INTRODUCTION Track cycling dates from the Western Australia has a mid-to-late nineteenth century rich history of success at and is one of the oldest forms of the Olympic level within the cycle sport. With the exception of track environment. Henk the 1912 games, track cycling has Vogel was the first track featured at every edition of the based representative at the modern Olympics. 1954 Olympics. Since the Track cycling events fit into two 1984 Olympics held in Los broad categories: sprint and Angeles Australia has won a endurance, with each typically total of 30 medals across all requiring different skill sets and track events with 8 of them physical attributes. Sprint events gold and 2 of these gold are raced individually or against results coming from Western 2 one or more competitors and focus Australian riders. on explosive power and high- In 2016 our current class of U19 Oceania 3x 2nd place). The rest speed skills over a small number Western Australia Institute of of the group have all set personal of laps. Endurance events are held Sport (WAIS) scholarship holders best times or power in their over longer distances and test the within the track program are development towards sporting 3 endurance abilities of individual highly decorated. There are 3 improvement. or groups of riders. Track cycling athletes who have been put At a club level there are 2 major offers the highest elite-level medal on or are transitioning onto CA clubs that our focused on track count of the cycling disciplines, with HPU scholarships (fully funded racing - Midland Cycling Club 10 Olympic events and 19 events positions for those athletes who and Track Cycling WA. Both clubs in the World Championships. Its are tacking towards an Olympic operate out of the velodrome cross-training gains are also widely medal) to be supported in Adelaide located in Midvale. The Midvale recognised, with training and racing for international competition and Speed Dome and WA local clubs on the track consistently shown preparation. We have 3 athletes have contributed 25% of Australia’s to build fitness, improve bike skills who participated in Junior World gold medals on the track since the and technique and develop tactical Championships in 2015 with 1980 Los Angeles Olympic games. knowledge. Multiple elite road Alex Rendell achieving a world cyclists, including Greenmount- title. Additional athletes who born former national road and time achieved national titles in 2015 trial champion Luke Durbridge include (Jade Haines 6x, Darcy and Kalamunda-born world team Pirotta 1x, Craig Wiggins 1x), or pursuit champion Melissa Hoskins, who achieved their first national have had prestigious track careers and international podium (Kye before moving to the road. Bonser U17 National Podium and

9 CURRENT ATHLETE PATHWAY

more M1 Podium Podium 4 years 4 years or Sustained Continued Continued success over over success Success at E2 at Success (AWE) Podium Podium event E2 Elite finisher finisher Podium Podium Success A Podium Podium A at an elite at international international (Senior International) (Senior and ‘Monumental’ Road Events Road and ‘Monumental’ E1 (AWE) Senior Senior Events Podium National National Potential Potential Competing Competing Olympic Games, UCI Elite World Championships World Games, UCI Elite Olympic at World Cup World at Professional Road Cycling Teams. Cycling Road Professional Representation Cycling Australia’s High Preformance Unit and/or Unit Preformance High Australia’s Cycling and (AWE) T4 events Reward level and level UCI World UCI World Cups and/ Cups UCI Points Developing Developing Excelling at at Excelling or other UCI other or accumulating accumulating Breakthrough Breakthrough National series National and MTBA MTBA Junior Junior (AWE) Squad T3 events National National Under 17 Under Emerging Emerging Achieving Practicing Programs/ Programs/ and/or UCI and/or Road Team Road and Oceania and Oceania Professional Professional WAIS Cycling Cycling WAIS Development Development World Champs World Training within Training Champs, Junior Junior Champs, Pre-Elite Talent Talent T2 within a program program Potential Potential embedded Verification state based state verified and verified (Potential to be Elite) (Potential development development Underpinning WestCycle State State WestCycle Development Program Development T1 other national level events level national other National Championship and National ID testing of Potential of competition competition HP potential potential HP and/or talent and/or from training, training, from Demonstrating Demonstrating Demonstration Demonstration Clubs F3 and/or and/or sessions and state and state Attending Attending Track Series Track Competition Competition Local events events Local Commitment Commitment based events; based events; Sport Specific coaching and/ coaching or competition competition or National Junior Junior National F2 Cycling Cycling skill and Program Lets Ride Ride Lets Australia’s Australia’s or informal informal or Refinement in organised Foundations Participating Participating development development Participation of Movement Movement of Non-Elite Extension and initiatives and/ initiatives mountain biking (Foundation Movement) (Foundation Non-competitive Basic F1 settings Informal Informal Movement Movement (e.g family) (e.g Foundations Learning the Learning fundamentals of riding a bike of Target Athlete Athlete Category Primary FTEM Phases Competition Competition An athelete is Development Development Environment

10 SITUATION ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

The success of WA athletes at an elite level. The lack of marketing of the sport- When are The level of volunteerism across the clubs- sessions on, where can I access this information people willing to give their time to the sport. as a rider? WAIS involvement with elite riders as well as Further opportunities needed for coaches to assisting in the state (Club-T-2 space). become professional. Very strong junior clubs that support and Number of competitions and level of competitions nurture young cyclists. is not adequate for a performance environment. A small environment that creates a personal feel Lack of pathways and evidence or a young rider for all athletes striving towards mastery status. to stay in the sport and keep their dream alive. Shared services between WestCycle and The distance and cost of travelling to national CycleSport Western Australia. level events. Only 1 current velodrome in WA.

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

Coaching environment can be up skilled and Pressure put on volunteers is significant due professionalised. the large amount needed for competitions. If There is a lot of upside as there has been volunteerism decreases this will have a negative relative success without a defined environment effect on events. – this will only improve once we improve T1-T3. Single velodrome in WA. Creation of a bike education and inter school Loss of athletes to other sports due to the lack competition which will have spinoffs as a talent of a defined state based training environment. identification. Junior numbers at several cycling clubs are Transfer of disciplines BMX/Road/MTB. decreasing if this continues into the future clubs Shared High Performance resource servicing face a huge challenge. all disciplines. General lack of direction for track cycling at a national level.4 & 5

11 PERFORMANCE BARRIERS

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION QUALITY OF HOME as well as inadequate coaching and The geographic isolation of WA and COACHES officials’ pathways has resulted in the vast distances to competition With our ties to WAIS we are lucky a lack of retention of track cyclists both nationally and internationally to have a small number of high within club-based environments. creates a barrier for track athletes quality track coaches in WA. This based in WA. This can result in small number is an area of concern. REGIONAL ATHLETES Western Australian athletes not HP coaches play a key role in the We have a history of regional being exposed to enough high development of athletes. Currently, athletes performing successfully performance level competition. This within the track pathway there is at the national level. Time spent creates a greater requirement on no state coach or anyone who has on the track is an integral part of the local racing scene at state level accountability for the transition of the development for both road to provide adequate competition. athletes into WAIS scholarships. and track athletes. From a track There is no identified pathway for perspective, regional athletes are LACK OF A QUALITY coaches or athletes to progress not adequately serviced and these TRACK FACILITY from club level to state coach level. athletes face an enormous task to The Midvale SpeedDome is half way stay level with the metropolitan- through its build life and is clearly UNDERSTANDING OF based athletes. Change is needed not supporting Western Australia’s HIGH PERFORMANCE in this area in the form of a training push towards producing Olympic REQUIREMENTS AND facility or the availability of suitable track champions. Regardless of its ENVIRONMENTS grants for regional athletes. geographical location, the Perth Within track cycling in general SpeedDome is not an adequate high there is a low understanding COMPETITIONS performance training environment amongst the cycling community There is no current state series of for our talented athletes, and as per of what constitutes a high events for track cyclists. There are UCI regulations is not currently fit performance environment and the designated track racing days at the to host a world championship level requirements and commitment it club level but these lack promotion event. In comparison to other states takes to be successful or deliver to the wider community. There is and taking into account the number outcomes. This includes the daily a lack of transparency as to who of track riders in WA, we are in need training environment, training can race in these days and what of a new velodrome as facilities play load, technical elements, body level they are at. Due to Western an integral role in the development maintenance, dietary requirements, Australia’s isolation, track cyclists of high performance athletes.4 coaching philosophies and tactics, often lack variety within the During writing of this strategic engagement and integration of competitions as well and always plan an upgrade to the Midvale support services and the overall seem to be racing against the SpeedDome was announced. accountability and responsibility for same riders. There is also a lack of performance and preparation. information on events, when they are running and general promotion RETENTION/TRANSFER of events. OF ATHLETES Track and BMX disciplines are both sprint-based events. Currently there are no initiatives or programmes in place to encourage athletes from these disciplines to experience the other. There is significant evidence in the form of past and current Olympic champions that shows the benefits of a transferable environment. The lack of a current state-based training environment

12 ROAD CURRENT ENVIRONMENT

INTRODUCTION Dating from at least the mid gender, performance level e.g. Western Australia has had nineteenth century, road racing is from high-level A Grade through significant success on the world the oldest form of cycle sport. The to beginner’s/juniors F Grade) or stage within the road racing first recognised road race world age (e.g. open or masters, under discipline. In the last 20 years championship was held in 1893 17, Under 15 etc.) and this provides WA has produced a vast number and the discipline has featured opportunities and fair competition of road racing champions. From in every edition of the modern for different types of riders. Grades Barry Waddell in the 1960’s who Olympic Games. typically compete over the same won a record 5 straight Herald Sun Road racing takes place on a variety course, although there can be tours from 1964 to1968 as well as of courses with different course variation in course configurations winning the Australian National lengths, styles and terrains (e.g. and race durations and lengths. Road Title in 1964 and 1968 through flat, rolling, hilly etc.), therefore There are three broad types of road to Henk Vogels Jnr. who retired in offering a range of experiences and races in Western Australia: 2008 after winning the Australian National Road Title in 1999 as well providing opportunities for riders Road race as finishing third in the 21st stage of with different skill sets and physical Criterium – short course racing the 1997 Tour de France.5 attributes. In Western Australia, Time trial road races are usually graded by

13 CURRENT ATHLETE PATHWAY

more M1 Podium Podium 4 years 4 years or Sustained Continued Continued success over over success Success at E2 at Success (AWE) Podium Podium event E2 Elite finisher finisher Podium Podium Success A Podium Podium A at an elite at international international (Senior International) (Senior and ‘Monumental’ Road Events Road and ‘Monumental’ E1 (AWE) Senior Senior Events Podium National National Potential Potential Competing Competing Olympic Games, UCI Elite World Championships World Games, UCI Elite Olympic at World Cup World at Professional Road Cycling Teams. Cycling Road Professional Representation Cycling Australia’s High Preformance Unit and/or Unit Preformance High Australia’s Cycling and (AWE) T4 events Reward level and level UCI World UCI World Cups and/ Cups UCI Points Developing Developing Excelling at at Excelling or other UCI other or accumulating accumulating Breakthrough Breakthrough National series National and (AWE) T3 events or State State or Training Training National National Emerging Emerging Achieving Practicing Programs/ Programs/ and/or UCI and/or Road Team Road and Oceania and Oceania Professional Professional within WAIS within WAIS WAIS Cycling Cycling WAIS environment. Development Development World Champs World Champs, Junior Junior Champs, Pre-Elite Talent Talent T2 within a program program Potential Potential embedded Verification state based state verified and verified (Potential to be Elite) (Potential development development Underpinning WestCycle State State WestCycle Development Program Development T1 other national level events level national other National Championship and National ID testing of Potential of competition competition HP potential potential HP and/or talent and/or from training, training, from Demonstrating Demonstrating Demonstration Demonstration Clubs F3 and/or and/or sessions and state and state Attending Attending Track Series Track Competition Competition Local events events Local Commitment Commitment based events; based events; Sport Specific coaching and/ coaching or competition competition or National Junior Junior National F2 Cycling Cycling skill and Program Lets Ride Ride Lets Australia’s Australia’s or informal informal or Refinement in organised Foundations Participating Participating development development Participation of Movement Movement of Non-Elite Extension and initiatives and/ initiatives mountain biking (Foundation Movement) (Foundation Non-competitive Basic F1 settings Informal Informal Movement Movement (e.g family) (e.g Foundations Learning the Learning fundamentals of riding a bike of Target Athlete Athlete Category Primary FTEM Phases Competition Competition An athelete is Development Development Environment

14 SITUATION ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

The success of WA athletes at an elite level. Lack of marketing the sport- when are sessions The level of volunteerism across the clubs- on? Where can I access this information as a rider? people willing to give their time to the sport. Lack of a facility in terms of designated racing Professional road racing national series tracks or criterium. teams exist in WA giving young riders an elite The level and variety of competitions is not environment. adequate for a performance environment. 2-3 very strong junior clubs that support and There is no current pathway for a young rider to nurture young cyclists. stay in the sport and keep their dream alive. Shared services between WestCycle and CycleSport Western Australia.

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

Coaching environment can be up skilled and the The pressure put on volunteers is significant due spin off affect this will have on athletes. the large amount needed for competitions. This There is a lot of upside as there has been could fall away. relative success without a defined environment Loss of athletes to other sports due to the lack – this will only improve once we improve T1-T3. of a defined state based training environment. Creation of a high school league, which will have Junior numbers at several cycling clubs are spinoffs as a ID initiative. continually decreasing, this has been an New facilities and the positive effect this will ongoing problem and needs to be addressed have on the sport. immediately. Shared High Performance resource servicing The growth of teams taking away from the club all disciplines. environment. Races becoming more about team success rather than individual performance.4 & 5

15 PERFORMANCE BARRIERS

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION UNDERSTANDING OF a satisfactory level. They also Similar to track athletes, the HIGH PERFORMANCE require constant exposure to majority of national road REQUIREMENTS AND metro/interstate based competition competition can be found on the ENVIRONMENTS and relevant funding opportunities eastern seaboard. As WA has no set With the emergence of professional to help offset the cost of additional 5 road racing tracks the geographical racing teams in WA the travel to and from events. location becomes more of an issue understanding and implementation due lack of available infrastructure of a high performance environment COMPETITIONS that can be used for a daily high appears to be improving. Further There are currently 28 road races performance training environment effort is required in fostering the on offer for junior riders in WA. relationships between professional These range from open road races LACK OF A QUALITY ROAD teams and clubs. This needs a through to criterium based events. RACING FACILITY high performance mentality that Most events have a basic grading As criterium format of racing the athlete’s development is the system however with such a small increases in popularity, there is number one priority within all number of entrants some events a significant need for Western decision-making processes. There are often combined or cancelled Australia to develop a cohesive, is currently no state-based training which leaves a gap in the level of planned network of accessible, environment or pathways that competition provided. The grading sustainable and appropriate short indicate how an athlete moves systems, promotion of events and course tracks (1 to 5 km). This through each stage of development. long term event strategy must network should include existing, be looked at in order to increase revitalised and new facilities, with RETENTION/TRANSFER participation rates. all course tracks evaluated for their OF ATHLETES suitability for upgrading and use. At a grass roots club level Longer distance road races also more must be done to create require greater strategic direction an environment that nurtures as these play an integral role in the young athletes and provides development of cyclists across all them with knowledge and skills disciplines. Training areas that are in order to progress along the safe and traffic free are required development pathway. There for developmental riders as well as is also no programme in place access to roads for racing that are that encourages road riders to supported and protected by local experience track and mountain government bike disciplines- there has been significant evidence that these QUALITY OF HOME disciplines are interchangeable. COACHES The road racing coaching REGIONAL ATHLETES environment is made up of both Bryce Lanagahn, Connor Lambert club-based coaches and private and Craig Wiggins are all regional businesses. Currently in WA we road athletes who are or have require an increase in grass roots competed at a national level. This level coaches at the club level which is evidence that regional athletes will in turn increase the number of have the capacity to win national riders progressing through to the championships however they high performance end. There is require further support. Regional currently no state coach overseeing road athletes require a complete all WA coaches with support and daily training environment, which is professional development. currently not being delivered at

16 MOUNTAIN BIKE CURRENT ENVIRONMENT

INTRODUCTION Mountain biking (MTB) is one of Olympic games in Atlanta. Tour de The local MTB environment consists the world’s fastest growing sports France champion Cadel Evans was of member-based clubs that are and Western Australia is following Australia’s first MTB representative involved in the development of the trend. at the 1996 summer games finishing MTB across all ages and disciplines. 19% of Western Australians own a very competitive 9th place. Currently in WA there are 13 a mountain bike and this figure is From a local perspective, Western member-based clubs which are on the rise. Mountain bike racing Australian born Sam Hill is a affiliated with WAMBA located became an Olympic discipline in professional downhill mountain bike throughout WA. 1996 and a cross-country type rider. He is a three time downhill mountain biking race has been held world champion having won the 6 ever since its debut at the summer world titles in 2006, 2007 and 2010.

17 CURRENT ATHLETE PATHWAY more M1 Podium Podium 4 years 4 years or Sustained Continued Continued success over over success Success at E2 at Success (AWE) Podium Podium event E2 Elite finisher finisher Podium Podium Success A Podium Podium A at an elite at international international Australian Australian Team Olympic (Senior International) (Senior Australian Teams Australian Team Championships Australian World E1 (AWE) Senior Senior Events Podium National National Potential Potential Competing Competing at World Cup World at Representation Unit/ Performance High Australia Bike Mountain and (AWE) Points T4 Reward level and level of 20 UCI of UCI Points Developing Developing Excelling at at Excelling accumulating accumulating Accumulation Accumulation Breakthrough Breakthrough National series National and MTBA MTBA Junior Junior (AWE) Squad T3 National National Under 17 Under Emerging Emerging Achieving Practicing Australian Australian MTBA High High MTBA Environment Performance Performance Development Development Championship Top 5 finishes/ Top Training within Training National Series National Pre-Elite

Talent Talent T2 within a program program Potential Potential embedded Verification state based state verified and verified (Potential to be Elite) (Potential development development Underpinning Part of the WAMBA the WAMBA Part of Development Squad Development WA Junior Team State Junior WA T1 ID testing Top 5 finishes in state series, 5 finishes in state Top series participation, National of Potential of competition competition HP potential potential HP and/or talent and/or from training, training, from Demonstrating Demonstrating Demonstration Demonstration Clubs F3 and/or and/or sessions Attending Attending State series State Competition Competition Commitment Commitment Local events/ Local Sport Specific coaching and/ coaching or competition competition or F2 skill and informal informal at club or club or at or informal informal or Refinement in organised Foundations Participating Participating environment environment development development Participation of Movement Movement of Non-Elite Extension and Basic coaching Basic coaching initiatives and/ initiatives mountain biking (Foundation Movement) (Foundation Non-competitive Basic F1 Family/ Family/ informal informal Movement Movement Foundations Learning the Learning environment fundamentals of riding a bike of Target Athlete Athlete Category Primary FTEM Phases Competition Competition An athelete is Development Development Environment

18 SITUATION ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

The rapid increase in MTB participation across A lack of direction and cohesion between all age levels. MTBA and other states within the talent/HP Appealing sport to the young generation as it is environment. fast and action based. No state team or centralized training Investment into new trails at a state based level environment for those riders looking to move has increased and plans are in place to increase along the athlete pathway. trails throughout WA. No current transparent and structured high The creation of the Mountain Bike strategy and performance environment. the current investment into MTB. Shared services between WestCycle and Western Australia Mountain Bike Association (WAMBA).

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

There is no performance environment and no Losing athletes and coaches to other states due direction nationally this allows WA to become to the lack of HP environment. the first completed environment. Coaching development pathways need to be Strategies and plans have been created to grow implemented to assist HP pathways. the sport significantly in the next 5 years. Lack of funding sources to maintain a Shared High Performance resource servicing all development environment.4 & 5 disciplines.

19 PERFORMANCE BARRIERS

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION accreditations are provided from clubs lack exposure to a daily high Majority of MTB competition is a national level. There is no state performance environment in both based on the eastern seaboard with coach and or talent development a training and competition aspect. a maximum of only one national network of coaches. This lack There is also a lack of communication series event in WA each year. This of a cohesive coach education and understanding of regional lack of a major competition is a environment will continue to junior riders and their current significant issue for aspiring MTB have a negative effect on the performances, abilities and talent. riders. There is a state series style high performance state-based calendar for both downhill and environment unless it is changed. COMPETITIONS cross country disciplines. There are currently 38 registered Similar to the other disciplines, MTB MTBA coaches residing in WA access to competition in regional with only 2 of them being level WA from a high performance 2 accredited which would be perspective is not adequate. There considered as a high performance is a state series of events however 6 coach. these events do not link to any form of performance pathway, criteria UNDERSTANDING OF or selection process. The events HIGH PERFORMANCE themselves also do not indicate REQUIREMENTS AND whether they are for a beginner, ENVIRONMENTS intermediate or advanced rider. 7 From a state governing body perspective there is no current high performance environment within Western Australia. There are several professional coaching companies who are filling this gap at the moment to the best of their abilities with limited resources.6

RETENTION/TRANSFER OF ATHLETES Retention of athletes who are progressing towards being part of a high performance environment LACK OF A QUALITY is a major concern for MTB in TRAILS Western Australia. These athletes There is currently no infrastructure are forced to relocate to the eastern and/or trails that would be capable states due to the lack of a daily of hosting a UCI event in Western high performance environment in Australia. Currently in Western Western Australia. There are also Australia, there are 26 MTB trails no direct programmes to link in with with many of them not adequately BMX and or Track cycling to create a maintained or underdeveloped transfer of athlete programme. to service the high performance athlete. REGIONAL ATHLETES MTB is well represented in regional QUALITY OF HOME WA from a club perspective with COACHES 11 of the 14 clubs based in regional Currently in WA there is no WA. Similar to metropolitan- coach education pathway as all based athletes, riders from these

20 BMX CURRENT ENVIRONMENT INTRODUCTION Bunbury Western Australia is 2012 Games where she finished currently the highest profile BMX a creditable 15th. BMX Sports BMX was derived from Motocross athlete to have come through our Western Australia is the peak Racing. BMX bicycle races are sprint system. Reynolds finished 2nd at the organisation for the sport of BMX races on purpose-built single lap 2011 Australian Championships in racing in Western Australia, and race tracks. The track is usually Cairns, Australia. She finished 11th at currently has 20 affiliated clubs between 300 – 400m and consists the 2011 BMX World Championships across the state. They currently of a ramp-style starting gate for in Copenhagen, Denmark. manage a high performance state- up to eight racers, and is made of based environment catering for various jumps and rollers and a Reynolds was selected to represent athletes 14-19 years of age. 7 finish line. Australia in the individual BMX competition at the 2012 Summer Lauren Reynolds also represented BMX racing became a medal sport Olympics She was one of five Australia at the 2016 Olympics. at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Australian BMX riders selected Beijing under the UCI sanctioning to represent the country at the body. Lauren Reynolds from

21 CURRENT ATHLETE PATHWAY more M1 podium Podium Podium Podium 4 years 4 years or Sustained Continued Continued or UCI Elite or A consistent consistent A cycles cycles the at finisher over over finisher success over over success Performance Performance multiple High multiple High Success at E2 at Success Olympics and/ Olympics World Champs. World event E2 Elite finisher finisher Podium Podium Podium Success A podium A A Podium Podium A at an elite at or UCI Elite or international international finisher at the finisher Olympics and/ Olympics World Champs. World (Senior International) (Senior at the at E1 Senior Senior Events National National Competing Competing or UCI Elite or at World Cup World at AWE Podium Podium AWE An Australian An Australian Olympics and/ Olympics representative representative Potential A & B A Potential World Champs. World Representation and AWE AWE T4 Podium Podium Reward rewards. rewards. Excelling Excelling Academy. the BMXA the BMXA HP camps. HP at National National at series level Developing Developing Scholarship Invitation to Invitation holder within holder Development Development and Emerging Breakthrough Breakthrough

and Junior Junior BMXA Squad T3 results athletes athletes Under 19 Under Effective Effective Academy Academy Achieving Practicing of pre-elite pre-elite of benchmark/ performance performance development development standard and standard Development Development rider who has rider achieved a set achieved Training within Training Pre-Elite Talent Talent T2 within a program program Effective Effective Potential Potential HP talent HP Academy) embedded Verification of potential potential of state based state (entry point (entry verified and verified (Potential to be Elite) (Potential to the BMXA to the BMXA confirmation confirmation development development Development Development T1 Shadow Shadow National National via State via State Effective Effective ID testing Teams and Teams of Potential of of HP talent HP of competition competition HP potential potential HP performance competition/ identification identification and/or talent and/or Squad and/or Squad and/or National level level National from training, training, from Demonstrating Demonstrating Demonstration Demonstration F3 and/or and/or sessions National National Attending Attending competition competition Competition Competition Commitment Commitment coaching and coaching Sport Specific and attending and attending events/Series coaching and/ coaching in Club/State/ A member of a of member A local BMX club local BMX or competition competition or F2 Rocket Rocket skill and (e.g. riding (e.g. or informal informal or around the around Refinement in organised in organised in organised Foundations Participating Participating Participating Participating development development of Movement Movement of (e.g. Sprocket Sprocket (e.g. Non-Elite Extension and skill initiatives skill initiatives BMX activities BMX Program/ club Program/ coaching) and/ coaching) initiatives and/ initiatives neighbourhood or unorganised unorganised or mountain biking (Foundation Movement) (Foundation Basic F1 of riding of Wheeler Wheeler a bicycle a bicycle mediums BMX Mini Mini BMX Movement Movement from other other from Program or or Program through the through Foundations Learning the Learning the Learning (e.g. parents, parents, (e.g. fundamentals fundamentals teachers, etc.) of riding a bike of Phases and description FTEM Phases An athelete is

22 SITUATION ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

The large number of competitions across all Accountability measures for those in the state age groups. development environment need to be developed A State development environment and culture as to what is actually being delivered. already exists. It is relatively unknown at a club level as to what The current use of external providers such happens within the state environment. as Strength and Conditioning coaches and Coach accountability and “buy in” to the state biomechanical experts within local universities. programme requires work as there appears to be a lack of cohesion. Clubs require education on what talent development is and what their coaches should be looking for.

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

Professionalise and further developing the Clubs and coaches supporting the environment current state environment will result in WA in the long term. becoming a power house in the sport. The ability to financially support the HP Creating a shared resource with other disciplines programme under the current self funded model. which will result in less budgetary constraints. Coach development and retention and the The setup of a talent ID system will allow BMX development of coaches within the high to integrate the state development environment performance environment is currently very low. 4 & 5 with local clubs and coaches. Engagement in a shared services model with WestCycle. Shared High Performance resource servicing all disciplines.

23 PERFORMANCE BARRIERS

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION facility with an 8 metre ramp which to be addressed in order to create Similar to all disciplines, the is necessary to truly practise in complete buy-in from all local clubs. majority of BMX coaching/ an environment similar to that at 7 competition/development takes national events. RETENTION/ TRANSITION place on the eastern seaboard. OF ATHLETES BMXWA have created a high UNDERSTANDING OF Currently there are no transfer of performance culture and do offer HIGH PERFORMANCE athlete programmes involving BMX an environment that attempts REQUIREMENTS AND and other disciplines such as track to minimise the geographical ENVIRONMENTS or MTB riding. Without a purpose- isolation of WA. There is significant There is a current high performance built training facility, many high investment made in accompanying environment in place that gives the performance athletes are forced to riders to events over east. athletes support in areas both on train on the eastern seaboard due to and off the track. This environment the lack of an 8 metre ramp in WA.7 LACK OF A QUALITY requires further support and FACILITY direction in regards to both the REGIONAL ATHLETES delivery of the service but also in From a local club perspective, BMX is well represented in regional the promotion and transparency to BMX athletes are well serviced WA with Bunbury being the major the local clubs. Selection criteria of throughout WA. There is still hub in terms of a facility in WA. both coaches and athletes needs however a lack of a central training Athletes in the South West region need to engage with the regional talent development programme and this needs to occur in all other regional areas as well. BMX is hugely popular in regional WA and this growth must be administered and the talent must be managed as these athletes are often over looked due to the lack of resources.

COMPETITIONS There is a range of competitions for BMX athletes across each age group bracket. There are initiatives in places to allow for competition to begin at a very young age and there is the use of competitions in the selection of state teams. Super Series is a State Racing Round. There are between 8 - 10 events per year, with several occurring in the country. These events can attract up 450+ riders competing in the one-day event. Riders who compete at all of these events, including the required country rounds, will qualify for an overall ranking for the entire series.

24 SUMMARY It is clear that all disciplines have both a lack of resources and understanding of what is required to operate a successful high performance environment. In order to adress this, all disciplines must fall under a coordinated and aligned high performance model. Current problems that have been identified: No overarching approach to high performance cycling with each discipline operating in isolation of each other. Inconsistent decision making processes. Lack of communication flow between clubs, coaches and state bodies. There is no cross discipline environment to act as a talent identification tool. Minimal coach education opportunities exist. There is minimal transparency and a lack of understanding around state team/state squad selection across the disciplines. Each discipline needs to acquire its own state coach and relevant training environment with a High Performance Manager in charge of all operational aspects.

25 03 FUTURE FOCUS

STRATEGIES PRIORITIES - TIME FRAMES STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT This part of the plan will focus on the 7 key strategies that will govern and provide direction for our state development environment. Investment models and engagement of relevant stakeholders will also be discussed.

26 OUR VISION Create a Western Australian high performance environment with strategic alignment, strong culture and values with a champions mindset to increase the number of national champions.

FUTURE FOCUS STRATEGIES The future of high performance 1. Effective monitoring procedures of athletes/coaches and clubs. cycling across all disciplines 2. Development of a complete athlete development pathway/state requires key strategic direction based training environment. in order to create a sustainable environment that not only 3. Development of stronger ties with Regional Talent Development maximises the resources available Network programmes. but also creates an accountable 4. Creation of extended competition pathways to include schools and transparent environment for riders who are located both in 5. Creation of FTEM pathways for all disciplines metropolitan and regional WA. 6. Coach development pathway and mentoring coach programme The below 7 strategies will help to be created. deliver the vision and benefit the 7. Stronger ties to be formed with WAIS, CA, BMXA, and MTBA and cycling community from grass creation of a HPAG group. roots participation through to the development of future Olympic and world championship gold medallists. Key priorities, time frames and objectives have been developed in order to successfully deliver each of these strategic outcomes.

27 STRATEGIES The cycling-specific components will holistically assist the are: environment by 1. Effective monitoring procedures Tactical Make cycling enjoyable for the of athletes/coaches and clubs. Physical participant The sport needs to look at a Technical Create a pathway of monitoring and communication Psychological development of cyclists across tool to be used with athletes and all disciplines coaches. All state-based athletes These are then combined with Allow for cyclists to transfer and relevant coaches must have the below attributes: between disciplines access to this programme as Social Recruit and retain athletes well as relevant State Sporting Parental within programs Associations (SSA), WAIS and Educative Create an understanding of an National Sporting Organisation Competitive athletes “developmental “age staff. Commitment and where they sit within the 2. Development of a complete The four stages of the Athlete athlete pathway. athlete development pathway/ Development environment 3. Development of stronger state based training environment. There are four proposed distinct ties with Regional Talent stages in the cycling development A complete athlete development Development Network environment. environment is required to be programmes. created that will include athletes, They are: Stronger ties must be developed coaches, officials, competition, Learn to ride (3–6years) with the Regional Talent clubs and parents involved in the Progress (7–13 years) Development Network (DSR) cycling development journey. Develop (14–17 years) programmes. This network is set The athlete development Performance (17+ years) up to support regional athletes environment will showcase roles The environment must be working with State Sporting and responsibilities for everyone developed to guide an athlete Associations. We must identify involved in delivering the sport of and their support team in regional talented athletes then cycling across all disciplines and understanding the key skills link them with their nearest RTD at all levels. It looks to develop to that are required at the programme to give the athlete the individual by covering all major milestones in a cyclist’s the support they require. areas that focus on both cycling development. This information specific and personal attributes. 4. Creation of extended competition pathways to include schools There needs to be a broader competition pathway for athletes across all disciplines and stages of the FTEM model. A high school cycling programme can add to the competition pathway as well as act as a talent search tool. It can also help with a cross discipline model of athletes competing across all disciplines.

5. Creation of FTEM pathways for all disciplines The Foundations, Talent, Elite & Mastery (FTEM) model is a user-friendly framework of athlete development that is representative of the “whole of

28 sport” pathway continuum and Foundations (F1, F2 and F3); 6. Coach development pathway and integrates common and unique Talent (T1, T2, T3 and T4); mentoring coach programme to phases of development for Elite (E1 and E2); and be created. participants at the active lifestyle, Mastery (M). While athlete- Coach development pathways sport and high performance sport centric, the framework has been need to become clearer as well phases. It provides a practical designed to encapsulate the as opportunities for coaches to method to assist sporting holistic and integrated nature of upskill across disciplines. A coach stakeholders to construct a more development through the specific mentor programme must be set functional athlete and sport differentiation of the development up within the state development development system. transition, performance, process, environment to allow succession The FTEM model is essentially acknowledgement and recognition plans for future state coaches integrative and representative of complementary factors as well as upskilling the general of the greater Australian sports supporting athlete development coaching environment. system in that it not only focuses such as coaching, resource and 7. Stronger ties to be formed with on the high performance pathway organisational support. WAIS, CA, BMXA, and MTBA and but also is inclusive and formally The FTEM framework offers a creation of a HPAG group. recognises the importance and practical planning and review tool This strategy looks at building contribution of ‘Active Lifestyle’ for cycling and each individual and strengthening our activities and ‘Recreational discipline should adopt the relationship with WAIS and the Sport’. The model acknowledges framework to be aligned with key disciplines and departments the critical importance of the the Australia Sports Commission that can provide or add expertise acquisition and refinement of (ASC) as well as other sports to the organisation. Greater ties fundamental movement skills to allow a cross over of talent with NSO bodies will allow for to lifelong sports participation if possible. Note: Ideally, the more continuity across programs and high performance athlete cycling-specific FTEM model as well as best practice at the development. should be developed by the state level with guidance from National Sporting Organisation As demonstrated, the FTEM NSO’s. The formation of a High (NSO) and then rolled out for framework consists of 4 Performance Advisory Group implementation in the States. macro stages of the skill and will help shape and guide the In the absence of this, then WA performance development of environment. sporting participants, which needs to consider the FTEM are further differentiated into framework when creating 10 micro phases. These are development programs.

29 STATE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT

MISSION STATEMENT Transitioning ‘potential’ into The State Development ‘talent’ by developing, reinforcing Environment (SDE) involves and monitoring positive training the systematic and progressive habits identification, selection and Increased contact with expert development of athletes in the 13 to coaches Under 19 age groups, with the aim Further educate athletes about of preparing riders to represent WA sports science and sports at the Australian Championships. medicine concepts Prepare athletes for national OUTCOMES championships, in their home environments Identify athletes at State Improved support for local Championships, State Team Trials coaches and through club competition/ Improved preparation and training, with identified athletes development of lower-age cyclists displaying characteristics and Provide regional support for abilities of a potential elite athlete identified coaches and athletes.

30 STATE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT

TRACK STATE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT

Local road racing teams WAIS Professional coaching/clubs Elite (Senior (Senior International)

State Development Environment- Supplementary environment be Elite) Pre-Elite (Potential to (Potential Talent ID sessions/camps

Clubs and coaches Non-Elite Movement) (Foundation (Foundation

ROAD STATE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT

Local road racing teams WAIS Professional coaching/clubs Elite (Senior (Senior International)

State Development Environment- Supplementary environment be Elite) Pre-Elite (Potential to (Potential Talent ID sessions/camps

Clubs and coaches Non-Elite Movement) (Foundation (Foundation

31 MOUNTAIN BIKE STATE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT

MTBA HP Environment Professional coaching/clubs Elite (Senior (Senior International)

State Development Environment- Supplementary environment be Elite) Pre-Elite (Potential to (Potential Talent ID sessions/camps

Clubs and coaches Non-Elite Movement) (Foundation (Foundation

BMX STATE DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT

BMXA HP Environment Professional coaching/clubs Elite (Senior (Senior International)

State Development Environment- Supplementary environment be Elite) Pre-Elite (Potential to (Potential Talent ID sessions/camps

Clubs and coaches Non-Elite Movement) (Foundation (Foundation

32 HIGH PERFORMANCE STRUCTURE

HIGH PERFORAMANCE ADVISORY GROUP

WAIS WESTCYCLE HIGH PERFORMANCE MANAGER NSO’S

STATE COACH MTB STATE COACH TRACK STATE COACH ROAD STATE COACH BMX

Road and Track MTB State Development Track State Development BMX State Development State Development Environment Environment Environment Environment Athlete daily training Athlete daily training Athlete daily training Athlete daily training environment environment environment environment support support support support Coach support Coach support Coach support Coach support

SHARED RESOURCES Strength and Conditioning Sports Psychology and Media Skills Nutritional education State team management and logistics Sports science and testing Athlete monitoring software Parent education Camps and workshops Developing Champions Program (DSR/WAIS) Office Administration

33 PRIORITIES, TIME FRAMES AND OBJECTIVES

Strategy: Effective monitoring processes of athletes and coaches.

Objective: To create an accountable high performance environment for all stakeholders involved.

PRIORITY

OPERATIONAL PLAN L = LOW TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY M = MEDIUM H = HIGH

Creation of databases and systems to H 2017 HPM monitor athlete results.

Tracking system to monitor coaches, qualifications, experiences as part of a coach H 2017 HPM succession plan.

Research and purchase of an athlete H 2017 HPM monitoring software.

Set up a Talent development coach status based on criteria to be developed by working group. Coaches would be offered extra H 2017 HPM, HPAG upskilling opportunities linking in with WAIS coaches and programmes.

Identify key stakeholders to have access to the software as part of individuals’ athlete M 2017 HPM, State coach development plans.

Work with WAIS to use the data collected for future WAIS selection and as a motioning M Ongoing HPM, State coach, WAIS tool of potential athletes.

34 Strategy: Development of a complete athlete development FTEM/state based training environment.

Objective: To create high performance training environments for all athletes and coaches involved within each discipline which will include shared resources amongst all programmes.

PRIORITY

OPERATIONAL PLAN L = LOW TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY M = MEDIUM H = HIGH

All High Performance programmes to fall H 2016 HPM under one central coordination point.

State coaches to be employed via service H 2016 HPM, HPAG agreements.

Sport specific matrix to be developed covering all aspects of athlete development M 2017 HPM, WAIS, CA in each learning phase.

Development and appointment of a High Performance Manager (HPM) based on H 2016 HPAG the objectives and priorities of this plan. Implementation of this High Performance plan.

Create a state development program for all disciplines. This program will be squad/camp based for each discipline – Mountain Bike, Road and Track and BMX, supporting training for national championships plus sharing common resources and athlete education. • Support to High Performance athlete H 2016 HPM, WAIS pathways • Coaching sessions and camps • Individual athlete development • Athlete education sessions for all disciplines • Updated state team selection policies • Coach education sessions

Enter into a partnership with a University to ensure that talented athletes gain H 2016 HPM access to regular testing and sports science opportunities

35 Strategy: Development of stronger ties with Regional Talent Development Network centre programmes.

Objective: To better service regional athletes within the high performance pathway.

PRIORITY

OPERATIONAL PLAN L = LOW TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY M = MEDIUM H = HIGH

Creating stronger links with Regional Talent H 2016 HPM Development Programmes.

Actively engaging regional athletes with the DSR/WAIS Developing Champions M 2017 HPM programme.

Providing information on all possible grants M 2017 HPM available for regional athletes.

Provide talented athletes living in regional areas with support to attend coaching, H 2016 HPM testing and racing opportunities in Perth.

Visiting key regional areas on a 6-month M 2017 HPM basis to talk to clubs, coaches and athletes.

Strategy: Creation of extended competition pathways to include schools.

Objective: Develop an inter/intra school competition including talent ID aspects.

PRIORITY OPERATIONAL PLAN L = LOW TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY M = MEDIUM H = HIGH

Linking competitions to state development M 2017 HPM environments.

Creation of a school-based competition that will also be used for talent ID. L 2017 HPM

Cross discipline competition formats created M 2017 HPM to allow for transfer of athletes.

Beginner/intermediate competition levels to be created in order to create a competitive M 2017 HPM edge at the grass roots level.

36 Strategy: Develop a coach development pathway and mentoring coach programme.

Objective: Long term sustainable coach development environment to be created.

PRIORITY OPERATIONAL PLAN L = LOW TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY M = MEDIUM H = HIGH

Set up a coach network group within each discipline to meet bi-monthly to discuss the H 2016 HPM state development environment.

Talent Development coach status to be developed, key coaches to be targeted and M 2017 HPM mentored as future state coaches.

Education to be provided to coaches on FTEM pathways and the roles of the coach in M 2017 HPM each section

Creation of a coach mentor programme managed by the state coach to include state H 2016 HPM coach succession planning.

Develop and implement a system of official’s and coach’s identification and recruitment that attracts new volunteers. Target masters H 2017 HPM age and recently retired athletes to become coaches and officials.

Recognise the contribution and success of coaches and officials across all disciplines H 2017 HPM through an awards presentation.

37 Strategy: Stronger ties to be formed with WAIS, CA, BMXA and MTBA

Objective: Long term sustainable coach development environment to be created.

PRIORITY OPERATIONAL PLAN L = LOW TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY M = MEDIUM H = HIGH

Creation of relationships with CA high performance personnel. Engagement must H 2017 HPM include regular meetings and being actively involved in CA High performance discussions.

Working with WAIS to take control of state H 2017 HPM team environment.

Liaising with MTBA/ BMXA regarding high H 2017 HPM performance strategies.

Develop a portfolio of policies relevant to environment that align with the relevant H 2017 HPM policies of Cycling Australia (CA)/BMXA, MTBA.

38 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Engagement of key stakeholders plays an integral part in the delivery of our key strategies. Our stakeholder engagement plan revolves around inclusion as well as identifying key areas of support that will be required to deliver a successful training environment.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT BUY-IN PERSONNEL

Athletes Thorough athlete Investment in the • Athletes performance plans, athlete via state • Coaches meetings, HP camps and development competitions. environment. • HPM • State coach

Coaches Thorough coach Investment in • Coaches performance plans, their athletes and • HPM meetings, HP camps and programmes as well coach network groups. as recognition and PD • State Coach opportunities.

Clubs Thorough consistent Pathways for club based • HPM correspondence, athletes to progress • WestCycle communication tools in as a supplementary (emails, social media) environment. and individual club meetings.

Professional Cycling Thorough team Athlete and team • HPM Teams engagement, meetings, support as well as • Cycling Teams athlete plans and access to additional competition support. athlete services.

WAIS/BMXWA/ CSWA Thorough Increased athlete • HPM WAMBA/NSO/CA correspondence, support, quality of • State coach consultation and state environment and support. Creation buy in linked to state • WestCycle of ongoing 2-way environment. • WAIS communication. • NSO

39 04 RESOURCES

PEOPLE, RESPONSIBILITIES & STAFF RECRUITMENT PROCESS Integral to the success of this strategic plan will be the resources required to implement it. This section will discuss these aspects as well as elaborate on the state development environment and individuals involved.

40 HPAG The HPAG will consist of Identify options and assist with responsibilities with respect representatives from track, the procurement of resources and to the delivery of the high road, BMX, mountain biking and ensure that all available resources performance strategic plan. paracycling disciplines. It will for high performance cycling are Ensure ongoing communication also include a representative directed towards the priorities between the HPAG and key from WestCycle, WA Institute identified by the HPAG. stakeholders. of Sport (WAIS) and DSR plus 2 Determine the roles and Act as an advocacy group for high independent members. responsibilities and assist with performance cycling in WA. The HPAG will provide a monitoring the recruitment and professional and advisory function in relation to development of HP coaches, MEMBERSHIP the delivery of the strategic plan administrators and support staff. The HPAG shall initially consist of and the future development of high Be prepared to challenge existing a representative from: HP systems and processes performance cycling in WA. Discipline of track cycling and provide guidance, advice Discipline or road cycling and support to HP staff and ROLE OF THE HPAG Discipline of BMX organisations involved in the Set appropriate targets and KPIs Discipline of mountain biking delivery of high performance for high performance cycling in WA. Discipline of para-cycling cycling programs in WA. Determine the most appropriate WA Institute of Sport Ensure that all WA high structure that will optimise success Dept of Sport & Recreation performance cycling programs for coaches and cyclists in WA. WestCycle are compliant with the WADA Identify opportunities for the code and best practice in terms of 2 independent members integration of the five cycling ethical and drug free sport. disciplines with respect to Monitor progress against the delivery of TID and high identified KPIs. performance cycling programs/ Ensure that all key stakeholders daily training environment. have clear roles and

41 HIGH PERFORMANCE MANAGER

PRIMARY PURPOSE Manage the allocated budget DESIRED To manage and grow the high approved by WestCycle. QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS performance environment across Provide written reports as AND KNOWLEDGE all cycling disciplines. necessary on the SDE outcomes Sports administration degree or as required by WestCycle. similar. KEY DUTIES Ensure that the program is Sound knowledge and implemented in an open and Implementation of the understanding of talent transparent manner. Western Australian Cyling High development/high performance Coordination of SDE activities in Performance Vision 2016-2020 systems relation to regional programs and and annual operational plans. Sound knowledge on national, securing growth in these areas. Manage the development, state and local infrastructure of Maintain effective communication implementation and evaluation junior cycling. to ensure complementary junior of the State Development Demonstrated understanding development programs are not Environment (SDE). of the needs and challenges in compromised. Provide direction to SDE coaching development athletes. Maintain a clear communication stakeholders through coaching Demonstrated competence in link with other state junior and development opportunities written and oral presentation and personal coaches to assist (training and competition) with skills, including production in the identification of junior a focus on Western Australian of resources. development talent. team representation at national Demonstrated skills in planning, Keep up-to-date regarding championships. monitoring and evaluation. changes to junior cycling rules and Work closely with the state Possesses a current working with regulations, including equipment, coaches to coordinate the SDE children check. technical regulations, competition program. distances, gearing etc. Funded by State Sporting Provide direction and liaise with Maintain strong working Association. the squad member’s personal relationships with WAIS and the coaches. HPAG group.

42 STATE COACH JOB DESCRIPTION

PRIMARY PURPOSE Operate within the allocated DESIRED To facilitate and improve the budget approved by WestCycle. QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS development pathways in Western Provide written reports as AND KNOWLEDGE Australia for 13-19 necessary on the SDE outcomes Level 1 (Minimum), Level 2 year old talented cyclists. This as required by WestCycle. coaching accreditation. will result in greater success by Ensure that the program is Sound knowledge on national, Western Australia at National implemented in an open and state and local structure of junior Championship events and transparent manner. cycling. increased representation in Accompany athletes to all state/ Demonstrated understanding Australian Teams. national championships. of the needs and challenges in Ensure the program reflects a coaching development athletes. KEY DUTIES balanced focus on development Demonstrated competence in of emerging talent throughout Coordinate the development, written and oral presentation Western Australia. implementation and evaluation skills, including production Coordination of SDE activities in of the State Development of resources. relation to regional programs and Environment (SDE). Demonstrated skills in planning securing growth in these areas. Provide direction to SDE and evaluation. Maintain effective communication members through coaching Highly developed communication to ensure complementary junior and development opportunities skills. development programs are not (training and competition) with Possesses a current working with compromised. a focus on Western Australian children check. Maintain a clear communication Team representation at National link with other State junior and Funded by State Sporting Championships. personal coaches to assist in the Association. Work closely with the High identification of junior talent. Performance manager to Keep up-to-date regarding coordinate the SDE program. SUMMARY changes to junior cycling rules and Provide direction and liaise with WestCycle would once again like regulations, including equipment, the member athletes’ personal to thank all stakeholders involved technical regulations, competition coaches. in the creation and future delivery distances, gearing etc. of our High Performance plan. Bringing all disciplines together under one vision will allow for the creation of an environment that will grow and become sustainable. There is a clear missing link in Western Australia’s cycling environment between clubs and grass root development and the nurturing of talented athletes throughout their teenage years. The implementation of this plan will create the environment that has been missing and will act as a tool to bring together all cycling disciplines. Sharing resources and a strong pathway can lead Western Australia cyclists to greater success on a world stage.

43 GLOSSARY

44 DSR Department of Sport and Recreation.

BMX Australia (BMXA) The national governing body for BMX.

BMX Sports Western Australia (BMXWA) The state body for competitive BMX in Western Australia.

CycleSport Western Australia (CSWA) The state body for competitive and recreational road and track in Western Australia.

Cycling Australia (CA) The national governing body for road and track cycling.

Western Australia Mountain Bike Association Western Australian Mountain Bike Association The state body for (WAMBA) competitive and recreational mountain biking in Western Australia.

Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) Mountain Bike Australia. The national governing body for mountain biking.

UCI Union Cycliste Internationale/International Cycling Union. The world governing body for competitive cycling.

Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) An elite sports institute to support high performance athletes in Western Australia.

WestCycle The peak body for cycling in Western Australia.

ENDNOTES 1 WestCycle (2014). Strategic Plan 2015-2018 2 Cycling Australia High Performance Unit. (2015). Available at www.cycling.org.au 3 WestCycle. (2014). Our Bike Path2 2014-2020: A Strategic Framework for Cycling in WA 4 Miller, B. (2013) Western Australian High Performance Cycling Review 5 Department of Sport and Recreation Sport Reviews. (2015). – BMX, Road/Track and MTB Reviews 6 WAMBA. (2015). High Performance. Available at www.wamba.org.au 7 BMXWA Annual Report. (2014/2015). Available at www.bmxsportswa.com.au