Ronan Montfort Finds His Calling at Fougères Badminton Club
Fougères, France – Ronan Montfort is settling into his role as head coach of the Badminton Club Pays Fougères (BCPF), navigating his first season at the helm of the Nationale 3 team. This Saturday, February 21st, Montfort and his squad will travel to Caen to face the reserve team in their seventh match of the Nationale 3 season. The match presents an opportunity for the young coach to assess the progress made so far.
Montfort’s path to coaching is an unconventional one. After completing his baccalaureate in 2016, he pursued studies in STAPS (Studies of Physical Activities and Sports), earning a license with a specialization in badminton, initially with the intention of coaching young players. However, he found himself drawn to a different path, entering the world of commerce. It wasn’t until he returned to the 2Bad Académie of Erwin Kehlhoffner in Cesson-Sévigné, although still working in commerce, that he was offered the chance to coach at local clubs – an opportunity he embraced.
“My journey is a bit unique, but I can’t see myself leaving this,” Montfort said. He accepted the position at BCPF last summer, stepping into a role that needed filling after challenges with the previous coach. Having been a member of the BCPF for twenty years, the opportunity felt like a natural fit.
Currently, Montfort juggles a diverse range of responsibilities. Beyond on-court training, he handles administrative tasks, manages the club’s online presence and social media, accompanies players to competitions, and even participates as a player in the Nationale 3 league. He also coaches the R1 team and oversees badminton within the curriculum at the Lycée Jean-Guéhenno in Fougères. “I enjoy it, things are going well, and the groups are great,” he stated.
A Club Rebuilding After Difficult Times
Montfort’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the BCPF, which is undergoing a period of reconstruction following a difficult period. Recent reports detail the club’s efforts to rebuild trust and stability after allegations involving a former coach. The club is working to move forward and create a positive environment for its members.
The appointment of Montfort, a long-standing member of the club, signals a commitment to stability and a fresh start. His deep connection to the BCPF and his varied experience – from commerce to coaching – bring a unique perspective to the role.
Balancing Multiple Roles
Montfort’s multifaceted role extends beyond the typical duties of a coach. He’s actively involved in all aspects of the club, from administrative tasks to player development. This hands-on approach allows him to build strong relationships with players and contribute to the overall growth of the BCPF.
His commitment to badminton extends to the local school system, where he oversees the badminton section at Lycée Jean-Guéhenno. This involvement helps to nurture young talent and promote the sport within the community. It’s a role he clearly enjoys, fostering a positive and supportive environment for aspiring badminton players.
Looking Ahead
After six months in the position, Montfort feels confident that this professional path is a good fit. Both the association and the players are satisfied with his work. He plans to continue in the role next year and intends to pursue further federal training to enhance his coaching skills. “Up to now, my journey has been singular, unique, but I don’t see myself leaving. I’m a jack-of-all-trades, I adapt,” he explained. He believes that it’s increasingly rare for individuals to begin and conclude their careers with the same organization, but he’s found a home at the BCPF.
The upcoming match against Caen’s reserve team will be a key test for Montfort and his team. It’s an opportunity to assess their progress, identify areas for improvement, and build momentum as they navigate the Nationale 3 season. The team will be looking to build on their performance and continue their positive trajectory under Montfort’s guidance.
The Union Sportive Fougères also has a National 3 team, but this article focuses on the Badminton Club Pays Fougères. More information about the US Fougères National 3 team can be found here.
Next Up: The BCPF will travel to Caen on Saturday, February 21st, for their 7th Nationale 3 match. Follow the club’s website and social media channels for updates, and results.
