SavvyBlogs
Posts by Manon Goulet.
I’m really pleased and privileged to be able to attend the Vancouver Olympics. Practicing sport at the level Charles does is very expensive, and knowing that there are people and organizations who support and believe in these athletes is amazing. It allows them to set aside the financial aspect and focus on their sport.
During the Olympics, I’ve tried to be inconspicuous. I know Charles has to concentrate; he’s not there on vacation. I’ve been attending all of his races, of course, to cheer him on. I’m there if he needs to see me and talk to me, but I’m certainly not in his face. Of course, I like to reassure him and talk with him, but it’s his time and I have to respect the way he experiences it.
After the Olympics, I’ll welcome him with open arms. Regardless of the outcome of these Games, for me, what matters is his happiness. He’ll be needing a well-deserved rest, and I’ll take advantage of it to pamper him so he can spend quality time with the family.
Living with an athlete, or with Olympic athletes, is not always glamorous; it’s actually fairly ‘ordinary’. What I mean by ‘ordinary’ is that, like everyone, athletes experience highs and lows. They have obligations and must make sacrifices.
In our daily life, we have to be organized, because there are schedules to be respected. We have to coordinate training, competition, meal schedules and school schedules. When the boys were younger, I played several different roles: taxi driver, organizer, nurse. I was there for my kids and the family was my first priority, but now that they’re older, I’m happy to have given that up. Now, I’m more of a confidante and a friend.
Athletes must have certain qualities to be able to live their passion. They must be energetic, well-balanced, determined, positive and courageous. All of these characteristics must also apply to how they manage their day-to-day lives. Sport has a strong influence on how an athlete behaves on a daily basis. Whatever their level, regional or international, athletes must live their lives in the same way they practice their sport, with enthusiasm and adoration.
Comments
Hello! I am a grade 10 French immersion high school student in Whitby, Ontario. For our final project we had to pick people important to Quebec’s history or something important in Quebec’s history. I have decided to do my project on your sons Francois and Charles. These blogs are really helpful for my project! Just wanted to let you know, Thank you :) Erika Clarke