The captain’s speech : Arnaud Lagabbe

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Serenity ! Trust ! Solidarity! Here are the three words that best define the state of mind of captain Arnaud Lagabbe during this world 2013 in Eger … From 4x100m on an athletics track, under a blazing sun, during the preparation of the France team, to a world title against the New Zealanders, Arnaud never doubted his teammates … An absolute trust which was undoubtedly the X factor of the victory of “les  Bleus” on Hungarian soil …

No doubt possible, that’s what you feel when you talk to Arnaud Lagabbe, former captain of the elite France team! His teammates remember it too. It was at the start of the competition, during the opening ceremony, Arnaud speaks and announces the color « we are here to win and we are going to win », this is the message he intends to convey. Winning above all! Doubt is not allowed! The first game of the competition is the perfect example of this mentality! While France lost 3-0 against New Zealand, “les Bleus” completely flipped the game and finally won 5-4!

WIN AGAIN AND AGAIN

So, yes, we can say that it is easier to say it today than before the competition, but for Arnaud, there was a little thing floating in the air (no bad joke with our friend Covid) and which made you feel that the competition was for the Tricolor Elites! Such a tight-knit group, with technical and vocal leaders, what else are you asking for? Before the final full of suspense, the Blues face Australia! Ahhh, Australia, the same who knocked out France at the gates of the final, the same who lifted the trophy two years earlier in Coimbra. However, don’t speak about revenge to Arnaud, because he has the clear ideas in his head with one goal in sight! FINAL VICTORY, regardless of the opponent, regardless of the team’s past … WIN, we told you! So the reigning world champions … It’s neither hot nor cold for the current manager of the France teams. Serenity ! Trust ! Solidarity! Since we tell you that this is THE key word of the team … After an overtime, the Blues eliminate the reigning world champions!

Carried by Arnaud, the players of the France team, have only one step to climb and what a step! The New Zealand of the myth :Taylor Benson, considered by many to be the GOAT of men’s hockey! Not enough to scare Arnaud and his gang, despite a complicated start to the match, the Blues are there and Arnaud makes an ultra complete match. The game remains blocked for a very long time at 1-1 and neither of the two teams manages to score the decisive goal, well, really? No, France succeeds and it is the moment that Arnaud chooses to turn to the supporters and ask for their support! There is also the role of captain, succeeding in taking his team to the top but also drawing his motivation through all the elements that are around!

So for France and for underwater hockey! Thank you the Blues, THANK YOU ARNAUD