This summer, the editorial staff of Jura Synchro meets synchro coaches around the world. For this first interview, departure on the south shore of Montreal, in Canada where lives Marie-France Sirois, coach of the team Nova senior.
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Can you introduce yourself and explain your background?
Marie-France Sirois: I started with Nova since its creation in 2005 but I am mostly known for the Open team Nova that I have led to 6 consecutive titles of Canadian champions from 2011 to 2016. Now I'm the coach of Nova Senior, bronze medalists in the 2017 Canadian Championships. They train about 15 hours a week.
I want to share my passion for this sport!
Why did you decide to become a synchronized skating coach?
Marie-France Sirois: I was a member of a synchronized skating team for 10 years between 1980 and 1990. I wanted and always want to convey my passion for this sport.
What do you personally get synchronized skating?
Marie-France Sirois: Pushing ourselves to the limits and the happiness of doing a job that I love. The contact with young people, the pleasure of meeting them and seeing them grow.
<p>Nova Senior at 2017 Winterfest. /Credits: Sean McKinnon </p>
Your highlight this season?
Marie-France Sirois: The performance of my team at the Canadian championships.
What is your assessment of this 2016-2017 season?
Marie-France Sirois: First season in the senior category. A beautiful season of discoveries and learning.
How do you plan summer with your teams?
Marie-France Sirois: Work. Passion. Pleasure.
What do you think synchro skaters should do during the summer and how?
Marie-France Sirois: I think we should take advantage of the summer to work on strength, flexibility, rhythm and the basics of skating. Ideally, each skill should be trained with a specialist.
And for next season, what's new for your teams?
Marie-France Sirois: More experience and maturity.