The ACU Motocross
Committee are delighted to announce the appointment of Dave Willet as the
Manager of The Team GB Coupe de L'Avenir squad for 2023 and beyond.
Following the recent
resignation of long-standing Manager Dave Garland, the Committee considered all
of the available options. Before Mr Garland's departure the possibility of
somehow combining the two roles had been considered. This never before
attempted amalgamation had many potential advantages over running the two teams
entirely independently.
In light of the new
appointment of Mr Willet to the WJC and Mr Garland's departure the Motocross
Committee felt that the time was right to try something new, innovative and
very different.
Steve McCauley ACU
Motocross Committee Chairman said " the more we thought about this
concept, the more it made sense from every aspect; selection, training,
sponsorship logistics, team building, finances, etc. etc. In reality, apart
from the adults who race at the Coupe it's extremely likely to be the same
riders who would be considered for both events. As a committee we have a
positive approach to trying new ways to improve and progress the sport. We
would much rather try new ideas and re-asses if they don't work out than stand
still. However, having said that, we have every confidence in Dave and feel
very positive about 2023 and beyond. To close we would like to thank Dave
Garland and his team for the past success, their tremendous efforts and
dedication, and the positive legacy which they have left us with".
Dave Willet commented I'm
incredibly excited to have been appointed the Manager for Team GB's junior
worlds and Coupe de l’Avenir team. I feel this new program will benefit both
riders and parents and help create something positive for the future!
This year is definitely
going to be a challenging one financially, but looking ahead, I'm confident
that it's only going to get easier over time. I'm confident that with the
dedication of the team and everyone involved, this will be a great success.
I'd like to take a
moment to thank the ACU for believing in me and Dave Garland for his hard work
over the years. He’s given me some good advice too. I know that Dave worked
hard to ensure that all the required elements were in place, and we intend to
do the same!
I'm also looking
forward to working with the ACU community, coaches and other staff who have
been appointed to manage the team throughout this journey. More news to follow.