France men’s rink hockey world champions, Digi Mart USA News: France’s national rink hockey team has won its first world championship, a first in the history of the sport in France. On Sunday, October 18, in Asunción, Paraguay, the French team defeated Argentina in the final.
Two players from La Vendéenne, the club based in La Roche-sur-Yon, were part of the squad: team captain Nathan Gefflot and Stan Vankammelbecke, who had recently joined the club. Spain, Portugal and Argentina have dominated the discipline for decades, together holding about forty world titles, so this victory marks a major breakthrough.
A few days after the final, the two players said they were still struggling to take it in. To prepare for and compete in the tournament, they had to take unpaid leave: Stan works as a youth activity coordinator in the town’s schools, and Nathan works for a company.
Nathan Gefflot grew up at the club alongside the Di Benedetto brothers, Carlo, Roberto and Bruno, who played for La Vendéenne before becoming stars of rink hockey in Portugal. He reached many youth podiums but also lost several finals, which makes this title especially meaningful.
Stan Vankammelbecke’s rise has been rapid. Three years ago he was still playing in the Nationale 2 division with Bouguenais.
Within two years he became European vice-champion and then world champion. Both players dedicated the title to the entire French rink hockey community.
La Vendéenne celebrated its two champions at a home match against Noisy-le-Grand, which ended in a 10-0 victory at the Angelmière hall. The trophy was presented to supporters and young club members, who now have a strong example to follow.
