Nîmes, France – The badminton team from Lycée Jean Guéhenno in Fougères, Ille-et-Vilaine, delivered a stunning performance at the French National UNSS Excellence Championships, finishing as national runners-up. The competition, held in Nîmes from March 25th to 27th, saw the team fall just short of the championship title in a tightly contested final.
The team, coached by Ronan Monfort of the BCPF, lost the final match by a narrow margin of 64-63, a result described by team representatives as being “so close to the grail.” Despite the heartbreaking defeat, the achievement represents a significant milestone for the school’s badminton program and a testament to the dedication of its student-athletes.
The Lycée Jean Guéhenno team consisted of Margaux Gérouard, Sélène Lugiery, Maël Rousseau, Noa Léon, and Brennan Aussant. Aussant as well earned recognition as a certified national young official during the championship, demonstrating a commitment to the sport beyond just competition.
The road to the final wasn’t without its challenges. Fabien Ollivier, a physical education teacher at the school, highlighted the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. “A special thought goes to Léa Lodé, who was injured shortly before the French championship,” Ollivier said. “It was a human experience rich in emotions and a magnificent reward for their investment in training on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the section, and their presence at the AS training on Mondays.”
The UNSS (Union Nationale du Sport Scolaire) championships are a cornerstone of school sports in France, providing a platform for student-athletes to compete at a national level. The “Excellence” division represents the highest level of competition within the UNSS framework, making Lycée Jean Guéhenno’s silver medal all the more impressive. For students across France, these championships offer a pathway to develop athletic skills and sportsmanship.
This success builds on earlier achievements for the Lycée Jean Guéhenno badminton program. According to information from the school’s website, the team previously won the regional academic championship on February 26th in Vannes, further solidifying their position as a leading force in regional school badminton. That victory, coached by Joris Messé, paved the way for their strong showing at the national level.
The team’s performance has generated considerable excitement within the school and the wider community of Fougères. The dedication required to reach this level of competition – consistent training sessions and a commitment to teamwork – serves as an inspiration to other students and aspiring athletes. The school’s athletic association plays a key role in supporting these efforts, providing resources and opportunities for students to excel.
Looking ahead, the team is already setting its sights on future competitions. Ollivier expressed optimism for the program’s continued success, stating, “We savor this title and look forward to next year.” The team will undoubtedly utilize this experience as motivation to build on their achievements and strive for the championship title in the years to come.
The Lycée Jean Guéhenno badminton team’s silver medal at the French National UNSS Excellence Championships is a remarkable achievement that showcases the talent and dedication of its student-athletes. It’s a story of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence, and a moment of pride for the school and the community of Fougères.
What’s Next: The Lycée Jean Guéhenno badminton team will initiate preparations for the next academic year and regional qualifying events, aiming to return to the national championships with a renewed focus on securing the gold medal.
