Written by Trackandmemes, October 4, 2023
Maya, aged 14, is a Belgian athlete whom Roger has taken under his wing for 1 year now. But Maya is also often compared to Nafissatou because of some physical similarities... Both are tall; 1m84 for Nafi and 1m77 for Maya. A Belgian-African mix; Senegalese on the father's side for the former, and Ivorian on the mother's for the latter. But above all, they are both top performers at the Roger Lespagnard meet..
"I started athletics at the age of 8, doing a school cross-country race. I liked the competition and was immediately hooked, especially on the track!"
Already present and successful in the arena, Maya makes no secret of having the great Belgian star as a role model.
"Nafissatou Thiam. It's no surprise, she inspires me a lot."
How did you come to train with Roger?
Roger had seen videos of me practicing athletics through a friend of my father. He suggested a meeting, and after a season under his tutelage, I decided to join him in Liège.
Our relationship is just great. He listens to me, because I'm still young... But we're working hard to improve.
And how would you describe it?
Roger impresses me with his energy, knowledge and kindness.
What sacrifices did you have to make to be able to train with him?
I used to train in Manhay, a 10-minute drive from my home. To get to Liège, I have to drive 120 kilometers round trip, three times a week.
Now I have to get organized. Sometimes I study in the car, which isn't always easy.
We still need to talk to the school to make my learning easier. But in terms of support, my parents are extraordinary. It's thanks to them that I can continue to progress. My father never stops for me.
From October onwards, I'll be going to four training sessions a week to be able to strengthen my muscles.
Will Roger be there to coach you?
Yes, he'll be there for the workout, as always.
I have to start, because I'm 1m77 and I need to strengthen my body.
I'm lucky enough to have natural qualities, as Roger says, that allow me to perform well. Particularly in the 200m. Dad and I also think that my Ivorian origins have something to do with it. It's a country of sprinters. 😁
Well surrounded, on and off the track, Maya seems to be slowly acquiring the right weapons to progress healthily in the world of competitive sport.
"The team is great, super strong athletes and very nice."
Is there anything about you that you'd really like to improve?
I'm 14, so I still have a lot to learn, but I'm working on my weak points. Right now, I'd like to master my impulse with my speed for the length.
How are things at training?
This year, we've worked on speed, technique and stamina according to the objectives and important meetings. Roger is very precise and demanding, but always according to a program. He takes a lot of time to correct movements. Repetition is important.
Have you already decided on your specialization, or are you still hesitating between heptathlon, long jump and sprint?
The heptathlon is still my goal. We work in stages, but at the moment I'm mainly lining up for the sprint, which is my strong point, and the long distance 😉
What about your goals?
My goals are to beat my personal bests and go for one or two Belgian sprint records.
I'd like to become one of the world's best U16 sprinters... Which was already the case in my first year as a cadet.
10 months before the Paris Olympics, Maya tells us about her biggest dream. One day, in her career...
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