Jeux du Québec: Daphné Arvisais Makes History as First La Tuque Athlete in Two Sports

BLAINVILLE, Quebec – At the 60th edition of the Jeux du Québec, a quiet milestone is being written in Blainville as Daphné Arvisais of La Tuque becomes the first athlete from her hometown to compete in two different sports at the same Games. The 16-year-old is participating in both badminton and table tennis, a feat made possible by her rapid rise in badminton and a recent, enthusiastic foray into table tennis.

Arvisais’ journey in badminton began roughly four years ago, inspired by watching her older brother, Édouard Arvisais, compete in regional tournaments. She quickly developed a passion for the sport, securing second place in regional women’s doubles in her first year of competition. The following year, she claimed first place in the regional championship, earning her a spot at the provincial level and eventually qualifying for the Jeux du Québec.

“I finished 9th, and I really liked the experience,” Arvisais said in a prior interview. “I didn’t even know the Jeux du Québec existed until my brother Édouard went. I was really determined to go ever since.” She officially qualified for the Games on November 22nd – her birthday – a detail she recalls with pride.

While relatively new to competitive table tennis – having picked up the sport just three months prior to the Games – Arvisais embraced the dual challenge. She and her doubles partner, Anabelle Gaudreau, automatically qualified for the table tennis competition due to a lack of other regional participants from their area.

“It’s only been three months since I’ve been competing, but we have a ping-pong table at home for fun,” Arvisais acknowledged. “I’m just proud to say that I’m the first athlete from La Tuque to participate in the same Games in two different sports.”

The Arvisais family’s connection to badminton runs deep. Édouard previously competed at the Jeux du Québec and was involved in the “méchants moineaux” tournament. Their father, Patrice Arvisais, serves as the coach of the Mauricie badminton team at these Games. A former elite player in his youth, Patrice has remained active in the sport and now coaches at École Val-Mauricie, passing on his expertise to the next generation.

Patrice Arvisais has also taken on a mentorship role beyond the court. “Moi aussi comme mon frère et mon père, je veux être entraîneuse,” Daphné said. “Je suis en train de faire mes formations régionales pour pouvoir entraîner une équipe plus tard.” Her ambition to follow in her family’s footsteps as a coach reflects the sport’s enduring presence in their household.

For Anabelle Gaudreau, the Jeux du Québec mark her debut in competitive table tennis. Like Arvisais, she began playing just months ago but has quickly adapted to the competitive environment. Together, they represent La Tuque’s growing presence in racquet sports at the provincial level.

The Jeux du Québec, held biennially, bring together thousands of young athletes aged 12 to 17 from across Quebec to compete in over 30 sports. The 2026 edition is taking place in Blainville, a suburb north of Montreal, with events spread across multiple venues in the region. The competition serves as a critical developmental platform for emerging talent, many of whom go on to represent Quebec at national championships.

As the Games progress in Blainville, Arvisais’ participation stands as a testament to both individual determination and familial support. Her story highlights how access to sport, encouragement from family, and local opportunities can converge to create historic moments — even in sports as niche as badminton and table tennis.

With no further competitions scheduled for Arvisais at this edition of the Jeux du Québec beyond her current events, her focus remains on performing to the best of her ability and gaining valuable experience. For young athletes across Quebec watching her journey, she offers a tangible example of what’s possible with perseverance and passion.

As the closing ceremonies approach, Daphné Arvisais will leave Blainville not only with memories of competition but with the distinction of being a pioneer — the first from La Tuque to break the barrier of single-sport participation at the Jeux du Québec.

What’s next for these rising athletes? Both Arvisais and Gaudreau are expected to continue training in their respective sports, with aspirations to compete at higher levels in the coming years. Fans and followers can stay updated on Quebec’s amateur sports scene through official channels like Sports Québec and regional sports associations.

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