The national water polo team is beginning its final period of preparation for the Paris Olympic Games. Ottawa goalkeeper Jessica Gaudreault has been leading the team for several years. At 29, the Franco-Ontarian is therefore awaiting confirmation of her place on the Olympic team, but is preparing for any eventuality. The announcement of the final training is expected at the end of May.
The final selection has not yet been announced, but I played a lot for this last cycle
says the athlete, who participated in two world championships and was in net for the recent Pan American Games in Chile.
It was great preparation, especially to face the United States who are a force in our sport. Having an extra match against them is even more experience
adds a satisfied Gaudreault, despite the 20-11 defeat in the tournament final against the Americans.
With the recent work, it will help us take another step in the right direction for the Olympic Games.
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Canada’s national water polo team goalkeeper, Jessica Gaudreault
Photo: Radio-Canada / Jules Desjarlais
Canada benefited from a surprise qualification for Paris in the final months after South Africa withdrew. The selection will intensify its preparation over the coming weeks for the big tournament.
We are going to Spain and France to play against other teams. It’s always a big test to see if our preparation is strong enough
explains the goalkeeper who also played with Indiana University. If we train well and have good matches, we can become a force. We play a lot of one-goal games that can go in any direction. I hope it goes to the Olympics
she adds.
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Get ready
While waiting for confirmation of her place in the team, Jessica Gaudreault is working a lot in the pool, but also on reflex training.
I like to work more on speed reactions. I do extra, it’s less mental, but I work a lot on focusing to be ready and fast
she says.
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Jessica Gaudreault’s parents taught her three languages when she was younger, including French.
Photo: Associated Press / Rebecca Blackwell
Canada will have to be ready and at its best for the Olympic tournament in Paris. The women will face Hungary, China, Australia and the Netherlands. Jessica Gaudreault will be ready for the challenge.
On my mother’s side, I come from an immigrant family. Representing Canada always makes me very proud
concludes the athlete, who can always benefit from the support of his family.
With information from Jules Desjarlais
