Interview with Anne-Cécile Ciofani, named the world’s best women’s rugby sevens player!

As part of Women’s Month, we had the opportunity to interview Anne-Cécile Ciofani about the role rugby plays in her life, women’s rugby, and her Cameroonian roots. This young woman is a shining example of success and resilience for our girls at the Serge Betsen Academy. We thank her for her time and wish her a speedy recovery as her season was unfortunately cut short due to a full ACL rupture.

• Can you tell us about your journey and how you became passionate about rugby?

I’ve been involved in sports since I was little. I did athletics throughout my youth until I was 18. That’s when I discovered rugby at university. I was studying sports science, and rugby was mandatory. My professor convinced me to give it a try, and I never looked back. Five years later, I joined the French national team, with whom we became World Silver Medalists in 2018 and Olympic Silver Medalists in 2021. That same year, I had the honor of being named World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year.

• How do you prepare for competitions? What are your ambitions?

We train several times a day. We also do a lot of video sessions to study our opponents, find ways to beat them, and improve ourselves. Our goal is to win a world championship.

• In your opinion, what are the strengths of the French women’s XV ahead of the Women’s Six Nations?

Their determination will be their greatest strength.

• What are you most proud of in your life?

The titles we’ve won, and the fact that we’re helping a women’s team shine in a sport like this!

• You’re of Cameroonian origin. How does that shape your identity and the values you believe in?

I’m proud of my roots. I hope to one day trace back my maternal lineage. The values passed on by my mother and grandmother push me to want to learn more.

• How did you discover the Serge Betsen Academy?

I discovered the SBA through social media. I’ve followed what’s happening there through the various videos and photos posted on Instagram.

• Do you have any advice for the girls at SBA Cameroon who play rugby?

My advice would be to hang in there and fight to defend and embrace who they are. Rugby teaches so many values and helps you discover yourself.

• What do you think about the recent growth of women’s rugby? What’s your dream for the future of the sport?

Women’s rugby has grown significantly in recent years. My dream would be for every club to one day be able to offer players professional status, with a salary and employment contract, so they can make a living from it and help the sport grow even more.

And finally, here are some flashs questions:

Thank you Anne-Cécile!