In Episode 6, we sit down with one of Australia’s most exciting road and track cyclists - Alyssa Polites.

Alyssa takes us through her journey from a standout junior to signing as a professional at a young age with Team Jayco Alula, and the realities that come with stepping into the WorldTour early.

We dive into the challenges of navigating high expectations, setbacks, and the mental demands of elite sport - before shifting into her current phase: a focused rebuild, balancing both track and road with the Australian Cycling Team and Meridian Bikebug Continental Team, while working toward a return to the top level of the sport.

With Alyssa coached by Nick over the past 18 months, this episode gives a unique look into both the athlete and coaches perspective - covering training, periodisation, dual-discipline demands, and what it really takes to progress in modern cycling.

We also get a clear insight into Alyssa’s values, goals, and advice for young Australian riders coming through the sport.

A grounded, honest conversation about performance, pressure, and building back toward the top, from one of Australia's top talents - this episode is not to be missed.

Watch on YouTube 📺

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 🎧

@wattmatterspodcast

@nocsportsscience | @pinnacleperformancecc

https://www.pinnacleperformancecc.com/

https://nocsportsscience.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome Back and Summer Reflections

03:20 Introducing Alyssa Polites

04:29 Alyssa's Journey in Cycling

06:45 Transitioning to Professional Cycling

09:45 Overcoming Challenges As A Young Professional

12:09 The Importance of Mental Resilience

18:38 Looking Back On Early Career Learnings

21:00 Coaching Track vs Road

25:29 Recent Achievements and Future Goals

33:23 The Reality of Periodising Training In A Busy Calendar

38:00 The 2026 Season So Far

44:30 Managing Dual Disciplines: Track and Road Cycling

47:45 Future Aspirations / What’s Next?

50:52 Listener Instagram Q+A