Supporting the Next Generation of Illawarra Cyclists

Since 2007, Soto has supported the Illawarra Academy of Sport cycling program.

What began as a personal connection for founder Frank Soto has become a long-term commitment to helping talented young athletes from the region access genuine pathways to higher levels of competition.

For Frank, the decision was never about short-term sponsorship, it was about backing something that shaped his own journey.

Building pathways that last

Frank’s experience in competitive cycling taught him that talent alone is not enough.

“You can only improve your capability with the support of sporting professionals and coaches,” he says. “When I started competing more seriously, I turned to coaches and the cycling community to get to the next level.”

That belief remains central to his support of the Illawarra Academy of Sport. The right coaching. The right environment. The right expectations.

Across BMX, MTB and road disciplines, the Academy delivers structured development, strength and conditioning, education and competition exposure. It builds disciplined, capable young people, not just strong riders.

Over nearly two decades, Frank has seen junior cyclists progress to state and national levels. Just as importantly, he has seen young people grow in confidence, resilience and leadership.

Strong foundations shape future champions

Without strong local pathways, progression becomes harder. Opportunities narrow. Talent leaves the region.

Frank believes academies like IAS are essential to protecting the Illawarra’s sporting future.

“Without a strong academy and the right ecosystem for development, the pathway is limited. Without the legacy of great champions for the region, we would not have secured events like the 2022 Road World Championships.”

The principle is straightforward: long-term investment in people strengthens communities.

Engineering outcomes beyond the workplace

Soto operates in the Illawarra. The business employs local people and works alongside local organisations. Supporting programs like IAS reflects a broader commitment to the region’s strength and resilience.

The mindset mirrors how Soto approaches engineering partnerships, relationships built over time, trust is earned and strong foundations matter.

Frank’s hope for the next generation of IAS cyclists is clear.

“I want to see good community leaders being produced from the program so they can advocate and continue to build on the IAS legacy.”

Programs like IAS develop resilience, responsibility and teamwork, qualities valued not only in sport, but in industry and in life.

A long-term commitment

Soto has confirmed its continued support of the IAS cycling program for the year ahead.

The commitment is ongoing; not as a campaign, but as a reflection of the organisation’s values.

Because whether in engineering or in sport, sustainable success is built patiently over time by backing people with potential and giving them the structure to go further.