Didier Retière Appointed National Technical Director of the French Tennis Federation
PARIS (AP) — Didier Retière, 56, has been officially named the National Technical Director (DTN) of the french Tennis Federation (FFT), marking the first time someone from outside the tennis world has held the position. The appointment follows an 18-month vacancy and aligns with FFT president Gilles Moretton’s vision of bringing in a sports management expert.
Retière Aims to collaborate and Connect with Local Tennis Communities
Retière, formerly the National Technical Director for the French Rugby Federation, expressed his commitment to working alongside existing experts within the FFT.”My priority will be to meet with these essential actors who, throughout France, bring tennis, padel, pickleball, beach tennis, and paratennis to life every day,” he stated in a press release issued by the FFT.
Strategic Shift After Period of Uncertainty
The appointment comes after a period of strategic uncertainty following the departure of Nicolas Escudé in late 2023. Ivan Ljubicic continues to serve as the Director of High Performance within the DTN.
Retière’s Background in rugby
Retière has spent nearly three decades in federal sports governance.Starting as a regional technical advisor in 1997, he progressed to coaching national youth rugby teams, leading the U21 team to a world title in 2006. He later served as an assistant coach for the French national rugby team, culminating in the 2011 World Cup final. Before joining the FFT, Retière also served as the national Technical Director for the French rugby Federation from 2014 and also worked to revamp the training program at Clermont.
How does Didier Retière’s background in rugby differ from teh typical profile of a National Technical Director in tennis, and what unique perspectives might he bring to the FFT?
didier Retière Appointed National Technical Director of the French Tennis Federation
PARIS (AP) — Didier Retière, 56, has been officially named the National Technical Director (DTN) of the french Tennis Federation (FFT), marking the first time someone from outside the tennis world has held the position. The appointment follows an 18-month vacancy and aligns with FFT president Gilles Moretton’s vision of bringing in a sports management expert.
Retière Aims to collaborate and Connect with Local Tennis Communities
Retière, formerly the National Technical Director for the French rugby Federation, expressed his commitment to working alongside existing experts within the FFT.”My priority will be to meet with these essential actors who, throughout France, bring tennis, padel, pickleball, beach tennis, and paratennis to life every day,” he stated in a press release issued by the FFT.
Strategic Shift After Period of Uncertainty
The appointment comes after a period of strategic uncertainty following the departure of Nicolas Escudé in late 2023. Ivan Ljubicic continues to serve as the Director of High Performance within the DTN.
retière’s Background in rugby
Retière has spent nearly three decades in federal sports governance.starting as a regional technical advisor in 1997, he progressed to coaching national youth rugby teams, leading the U21 team to a world title in 2006. He later served as an assistant coach for the French national rugby team, culminating in the 2011 World Cup final. Before joining the FFT, Retière also served as the national Technical Director for the French rugby Federation from 2014 and also worked to revamp the training program at clermont.
Q&A: Didier Retière’s Appointment as DTN of the FFT
Why is this appointment meaningful?
This is the first time the FFT has appointed a DTN from outside the tennis world. President Gilles Moretton aims to bring in fresh perspectives and management expertise to boost the federation’s performance.
What is the role of the National Technical Director (DTN)?
The DTN is responsible for the overall technical direction of the FFT, including player growth, coaching, and the strategic planning of the sport in France. Think of it as the chief architect of French tennis’s future.
who is Didier Retière, and what’s his background?
Didier Retière, 56, has a long and successful history in sports governance, primarily in rugby. He was the National Technical Director for the French Rugby Federation and has coached national youth teams, leading the U21 team to a world title.He also served as an assistant coach for the French national rugby team. This varied experience is expected to bring a new viewpoint to the FFT.
What are Retière’s priorities in his new role?
Retière plans to focus on collaboration and connection with local tennis communities across France. He wants to meet with those actively involved in tennis, padel, pickleball, beach tennis, and paratennis to understand their needs and contributions.
How does this appointment fit into the FFT’s current situation?
The appointment follows a period of strategic uncertainty after the departure of Nicolas Escudé in late 2023. With Ivan Ljubicic remaining as Director of High Performance, Retière’s role is to provide strategic leadership and vision for the future.
What can fans expect to see in the future?
expect a renewed focus on grassroots development and community engagement. Retière’s experience suggests a more collaborative approach, potentially leading to innovative training programs and growth in diverse tennis-related sports. Keep an eye on regional events and initiatives!
Didier Retière’s appointment signals a new chapter for French tennis. It will be fascinating to see how his experience and leadership will influence the future of the sport and its growth within France.
