Athletes participated in physiological testing conducted by the academy’s athlete performance specialist Courtney Porter, with the assistance of SERAS student interns Scott Reaper and Michelle Moore from the University of Canberra. Athletes undertook ergometer testing at CIT Bruce’s physiological testing laboratory, as well as several functional movement screenings relevant to their sport.

This was an invaluable experience for the athletes, exposing them to testing protocols similar to that of elite athletes. Data obtained from testing will provide individualised feedback, such as training zones and a base measure in which to assess their progress over the coming months. Athletes were also prescribed their eight-week strength and conditioning programs to assist with their physical development and enhancing their basic movement patterns throughout their sport.

Following testing, SERAS head coach Graeme Northey delivered a road coaching session at Stromlo Forest Park. This session enabled the athletes to train as a squad and learn bunch riding techniques. Cycling NSW state development coach Tom Dawson was also present at both the testing and coaching sessions to offer advice and assistance to the athletes.

Squad members in the SERAS Cycling Program for 2014 include: Tasmin Davies (Crookwell); James Toparis (Goulburn); and Tom Toparis (Goulburn). SERAS congratulates Jordan Louis (Cooma) who has recently been offered a scholarship with the ACT Academy of Sport (ACTAS).