Former British Superbike star John Laverty is at the centre of a new rider academy which aims to give six young riders the best platform from which to launch their careers.

Affinity Sports Academy has a strong association with Kawasaki and aims to offer athletes the highest amount of support possible to ensure there is a robust foundation to work from in the early stages.

“This is an exciting new venture for all of us.This is a great platform for these young riders to work from, and I am there to help nurture them through the season and try not to let them make the same mistakes that we all did when starting out,” said team manager Laverty.

“The support of Team Green is invaluable and these guys know they have a great opportunity ahead of them. The idea of the academy is to help them win races, championships and hopefully progress through the British Superbike series alongside Kawasaki and Team Green.”

Kawasaki Motors UK Senior Racing Coordinator Ross Burridge added: “Team Green has always focussed on developing young talent and offering opportunities for progression.

“Danny Buchan is a great example who has progressed from Junior Superstock, right the way through to becoming our official Superbike rider, so there really is something for the young riders of Affinity Sports Academy to aspire to.

“Spanning across two classes, Junior Supersport and Junior Superstock, immediately there is an opportunity for growth within the Academy itself, so I am sure we will be seeing some exciting racing on track from all riders when the season gets underway in just over a month’s time.”

The 2020 riders are Kade Verwey, Luke Verwey, Eugene McManus, James McManus, Ash Barnes and Owen Jenner.