It was a moment of emotion and pride that the inhabitants of Aiguillon shared with the return of Jefferson Lee Joseph, Olympic rugby sevens champion and gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Games. The young athlete of 22 years old took advantage of his stay in Lot-et-Garonne, notably in Duras, his favorite club, to visit his mother and his relatives.
A reception in his honor
To mark this exceptional visit, his family and friends had a memorable surprise in store for him: a reception organized in a room at the town hall. Many guests had gathered, local figures and personalities from the world of rugby. Among them, Mayor Christian Girardi, who hailed Jefferson Lee as one of the heirs of the department's rich rugby heritage. The mayor recalled past glories, speaking of Aiguillon and Confluent as the cradle of departmental rugby, mentioning in particular his friends Daniel Dubroca, former coach of the France team, and Philippe Sella, international rugby figure.
A family at the heart of the event
Bettina Baudet, the champion's mother, based in downtown Aiguillon since 2019, spoke to express her pride. She shared a touching anecdote: “I was very afraid for him before the games, but he reassured us by saying that he was sure of victory. He fears no one and is afraid of nothing.” These words exemplified the determination and confidence that characterized Jefferson Lee Jackson, qualities that took him to the pinnacle of world rugby.
A trophy and a symbolic signature
During the evening, Jefferson Lee responded to numerous requests, taking photos and interacting with his friends who sometimes came from far away. Some athletes from SUA Agen were present and from other clubs where he played. Jefferson Lee was invited to sign the town's guestbook, where figures of other illustrious figures such as General de Gaulle or Haroun Tazieff are included. He wrote these simple words: “Pure product of 47”, before adding his signature, recalling his attachment to his Lot et Garonnaises roots.
A step towards new challenges
The champion, proudly displaying his gold medal around his neck, then took the road to Perpignan, where he is currently playing. His visit to Aiguillon, full of emotion, was an important moment. It testifies to the central place of rugby in local identity and the pride that such a journey can inspire in an entire region.
