NextGen: Our Rider Development Framework

NextGen is Manchester Cycling Academy’s targeted rider development framework designed to support developing riders at critical stages of their progression. The framework provides structured, high-quality training environments focused on technical execution, tactical awareness, physical competencies and psychological development.

NextGen is built on long-term athlete development principles prioritising decision-making, adaptability, skill application and performance understanding rather than early performance pressure or short-term results.

Why Have a Rider Development Framework?

Evidence tells us that athletic development is rarely linear. Progression is shaped by how athletes interpret race situations, apply technical skills under pressure and adapt to changing environments. NextGen has been designed to address these demands through deliberate, context-specific learning opportunities.

A rider development framework consolidates applied coaching insight and programme delivery experience across multiple disciplines. It reflects practical learning gained through the events that we have staged over recent years such as School of Racing with Sir Jason Kenny, Roadcraft and Trackcraft sessions and DiSE-aligned development structures.

When are the Sessions?

Who NextGen Is For

NextGen sessions are designed for riders within the following categories:

Junior riders (17-19)

Youth B riders (U14)

Youth A riders (U16)

Research consistently indicates that earlier participation stages are best supported by enjoyment, exploration and varied riding experiences. The NextGen rider development framework therefore focuses on riders approaching or navigating performance-relevant transitions. 

This does not mean that younger riders will be excluded from future events, but it recognises that structured performance environments are most beneficial when aligned with appropriate developmental stages.

Participation & Structure

NextGen is not a formal pathway or tiered programme. Riders are not expected to attend all sessions and progression is neither prescribed nor compulsory. Each NextGen event functions as a standalone development opportunity designed to complement individual needs, disciplines and competitive calendars.

This flexible structure allows riders to engage where sessions are most beneficial while maintaining consistency of coaching philosophy and developmental intent.

NextGen is not a selection pathway; riders attend sessions that best complement their needs and disciplines.

How NextGen Supports Rider Development

All NextGen sessions are guided by a shared development lens:

Tech | Tach | Physical | Psychological

• Tech: Developing control, efficiency and bike handling skills
• Tach: Building awareness, judgement and decision-making ability
• Physical: Supporting age-appropriate strength and capacity
• Psychological: Strengthening confidence, composure and resilience

This framework ensures riders are supported as complete athletes, not simply prepared for isolated results.

Our Philosophy

NextGen sessions are not trials or selection events. They are structured development environments designed to help riders learn, experiment and grow. Coaching emphasises understanding, adaptability and confidence, enabling riders to develop skills that transfer meaningfully into training and competition settings.

Coaching & Collaborative Delivery

NextGen activity will from time-to-time be delivered in collaboration with experienced riders and coaches from high-performance environments such as internationally recognised athletes including World Champions and riders and coaches associated with leading professional teams.

These collaborations are designed to enrich learning environments and expose riders to diverse performance perspectives within credible, real-world contexts.

Training Environments

Sessions are delivered within carefully selected, high-quality venues chosen to optimise both safety and learning quality. Depending on discipline, activities may take place at indoor facilities, closed circuits, specialist off-road venues and national-standard training centres.

Relationship with DiSE Delivery

NextGen aligns with and complements Manchester Cycling Academy’s existing development structures. DiSE delivery operates in parallel with, and where appropriate within, NextGen environments, ensuring continuity of coaching language, expectations and developmental intent.

Upcoming NextGen Sessions

NextGen sessions are delivered across multiple disciplines throughout the season. 

Each event functions as a standalone development opportunity aligned with the NextGen framework.

Coming Up: 

NextGen BMX Session: National Indoor BMX Centre
21 March | Session Lead: Conor Hedges

This will be a structured BMX development session focusing on starts, cornering, rhythm and speed generation.

NextGen Road Session: Venue TBC
Late April | Session Lead: TBC