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Currently pursuing a Master in International Business at IÉSEG, Gabrielle FITAIRE reflects on her experience as a professional water polo player. After discovering this sport at the age of 16 in Canada, Gabrielle quickly rose through the ranks to play for the French national team. She shares her passion for competition, her adaptation to life in France, and her future plans after pausing her athletic career.

Gabrielle, you discovered water polo at the age of 16. What attracted you to this sport?

I’ve always been very active in sports since I was a child. I tried various disciplines like baseball, karate, and swimming. I wasn’t particularly fast in swimming, largely due to my body type being quite different from that of other swimmers; my shoulders were too broad. When I tried water polo at 16, I knew from the very first time that this was my sport. It was love at first sight; it felt like a natural fit. My body shape became a real asset in water polo because I had a lot of upper body strength. I quickly became hooked on the sport and wanted to be the best! I really enjoy the intensity and competitiveness of this sport and its combative nature. Unlike swimming, where you’re often alone against yourself in your lane, water polo is truly a team effort against another team. I love that spirit of competition, the drive to win for myself and with others.

You progressed rapidly, going from a beginner to a professional level in just two years…

When I started playing water polo, I was still living in Canada and going through a tough period in my life. Sports helped me clear my mind and escape, which was a huge support for me. I went to the pool every day and even trained more than my teammates. I would train for hours and also did weightlifting on the side.
After completing high school, I decided to move to France to play for the national team. Since I hold dual citizenship, I had that option. My father is from Bordeaux. When I decided to come to France, I reached out to clubs and landed an opportunity in that city. I left Canada to join Bordeaux, and eventually ended up in Lille, playing for Lille UC. I achieved my dream of being selected for the French national team, participating in the European Championship and the World Championship in 2022. I’ve been five times champion of France and three times winner of the Coupe de France.

Did you know France before moving there for water polo?

I had only been to France once when I was 10 years old. So, this was my second visit, but this time it was to settle down, far from home. It was a shock at first, and I needed time to adapt. Moving to France marked a new beginning in my life. Before that, I had grown up in the same school, with the same people, in the same neighborhood… I didn’t have many opportunities to meet new people.
So, it was a radical change. There were some cultural shocks, like greeting people with a kiss! But I quickly found my footing and adapted. It’s funny because I always feel more Canadian when I’m in France, but more French when I’m in Canada.

What skills have you gained from sports, and how can they help you in your professional career?

Sports taught me discipline, rigor, and responsibility. I like things to be done perfectly, and I always give my best in everything I undertake. In sports, especially in competition, you always strive to be the best, and punctuality for training is a given. You develop a sense of commitment, especially when playing in a team, because your actions have consequences for other team members.
Water polo also helped me develop my interpersonal skills and intercultural awareness, as I interacted with 10 teammates from 10 different countries. We learned to communicate even when we didn’t speak the same language. Some didn’t speak any English at all. We had to learn to read body language and understand each other without saying a word, and it worked really well. This experience fosters a keen sense of observation and understanding of others. It’s a bit like in a company; you have to work with all team members despite any potential obstacles.

Today, you’ve put your water polo career on hold. How are you enjoying your new life as a student at IÉSEG?

During my undergraduate studies, I was involved in high-level sports alongside my studies. I wasn’t often at school, and I socialized very little. I missed out on social events that could have helped me build friendships. I felt quite isolated. I was giving 100% to water polo, and one day I realized it was becoming too much. I needed to experience a “normal” student life again. So, I took the plunge and applied to IÉSEG for a Master in International Business.

Since I joined IÉSEG, everything has changed! I can finally do what I want, whenever I want, and enjoy my freedom. Simple things like going out for drinks with friends after class have become big discoveries for me! It may seem trivial and just part of life for some, but for me, it’s a huge change! I’m discovering what student life is really like and exploring a new side of my life.

What are your future plans?

Right now, my goal is to gain professional experience and kickstart my career. I would like to work in sales, business, or marketing. I believe I have the qualities and competitive spirit needed to succeed in these fields. I am actively looking for an internship. Perhaps one day I’ll return to the pool; it’s on my mind, especially after seeing my teammates parade along the Seine in Paris during the Olympics this summer!