“Who doesn’t like jumping into a pool? I do, and I’m 52!”

As a father who has lived in the UK for over three decades and raised a talented daughter, I can truly appreciate the beauty of watching my child grow and thrive in her passions. My own childhood memories in France seem like a blur compared to the vivid experiences we’ve had together as a family, supporting Andrea in her pursuit of diving.

Fred Sirieix, the charming French host of Channel 4’s “First Dates,” was taken aback when he learned that his daughter Andrea wanted to pursue diving. As a loving father, his initial reaction was to shield her. Drawing from another passion in his life, Fred looked to food for guidance.

As a cinema devotee, I’d put it this way: “Life is like a delicious pie with numerous slices. Each slice represents different aspects of our existence. If you focus solely on one slice, such as diving, there’s a risk of getting hurt. And that’s all you’ll have left. It’s important to enjoy all the other slices too, like education. We’ll support and encourage your diving passion, but remember to invest equal time in your studies.”

Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix’s dedication, be it at the swimming pool or in her studies, has proven fruitful. Fred’s cherished duckling, affectionately referred to as “mon caneton” or “mon bébé“, is now a 19-year-old resident of Paris, holding a promising opportunity to win an Olympic medal.

At the age of 20, Sirieix made the move to the UK and is now revealed as a guest for the BBC’s coverage of the Games. May it feel uncomfortable for him to talk about his daughter’s dive in front of such a large audience?

“He shares that he’ll be at the poolside, cheering on Andrea without any work involved, as he takes a sip from his cappuccino. He prefers to keep quiet about her diving performance during the event itself, as it deeply touches him. Instead, he plans to provide comments and share insights after everything has concluded. Above all, he looks forward to experiencing the moment fully, regardless of its outcome, and there will surely be tears involved.”

A Commonwealth and European champion, World Championship silver medallist in 2023 and team gold medallist in 2024, Andrea could become the first female British diver to make the Olympic podium since 1960. “She’s in with a real chance of a medal. She’s in the shape and form of her life,” Sirieix says. “She is dedicated to the sport.”

Andrea’s diving journey started unexpectedly. At the age of eight, representatives from Crystal Palace Diving Club visited her primary school in south-east London for a talent search. They tested the children’s agility and muscular strength through some exercises.

“The young girl was quite athletic, and people encouraged her, saying, ‘You’re progressing well. Shall we give swimming a try?’ So she joined in and enjoyed it immensely. Who isn’t fond of diving into a pool? I include myself at 52 years old.”

Within a short time, she achieved great victories. Together with Lois Toulson, they made history by claiming the silver medal for Britain at the World Championships in the 10-metre synchro last year. In the European Championships of 2022, she earned the gold. At only 16 years old in 2020, she became the youngest member of Team GB’s diving squad in Tokyo and reached seventh place at her Olympic debut in the 10m platform final.

When you’ve suddenly got an athlete in your house, it’s quite a rollercoaster

At the young ages of 12 and 13, she began participating in competitions and emerged as a winner. When she was only 15, she claimed the title of British champion, surprising everyone. She outperformed girls who were considerably older, at the ages of 18, 19, and 20.

The contestant on “I’m a Celebrity…” confesses, “It’s been quite a ride” when you suddenly have an athlete living with you – someone who acts and breathes like a winner. All they can think about is diving and they’re determined to come out on top.

Based on my personal experience, I’ve encountered situations where asking someone to take a break for a holiday or weekend proves to be challenging, especially when that person is deeply committed to their training regimen. It’s not an easy request to make, and the response is often “no” with a resolute tone. I’ve tried bargaining by suggesting just one day, but even then, the commitment remains unwavering. This dedication is commendable, and it’s essential to respect their choices. It took me some time to understand that insisting or pushing for a break might not be helpful in the long run. Instead, I appreciate their focus and commitments while looking forward to making new plans when they are ready for a well-deserved rest.

Andrea acknowledged the significant role her parents played in her success by praising them for putting aside their own plans when she pursued her sport. She referred to her mother as her hero. However, Sirieix downplayed any sacrifices he made, stating that supporting his daughter in her endeavors was simply part of being a parent. If early mornings and diving trips were required, that’s what he did, and he didn’t view it as a hardship.

I firmly believe that the unsung hero of this story is the little brother. He was unwillingly dragged to the poolside, but instead of joining in the activities or lazing by the water’s edge, he chose to sit in the stands, engrossed in his iPad or playing with unfamiliar children. In my opinion, his ability to adapt and make the best out of a situation that wasn’t ideal is truly commendable.

Most parents don’t jump off a 10-meter board impulsively, even if they do so feet-first rather than head-first.

“During that incident in 2021, I was left with numerous bruises on my legs and rear end,” Sirieix reminisces. “I won’t undergo such treatment again unless I’m compensated for it.”

Andrea lay there, calling out, “Dad, calm down, don’t be afraid. I can see your heart pounding in your chest.” He echoed her words, his own heart racing wildly. “It was truly terrifying.”

After a year had passed, I found myself developing an unexplained fear towards diving – it became a mental obstacle that made even the simplest dives seem daunting, almost to the point of giving up. My loved ones, led by Sirieix, showed nothing but “unwavering support and love.” There was absolutely no pressure or expectations placed upon me during this time.

As a movie lover, I can relate to Sirieix’s past experiences of spending weekends socializing in clubs instead of focusing on sports when I was a kid. However, his passion for the positive impact sports can have on children is undeniable. He shares, “Sports teach kids essential skills like focus, resilience, and having clear goals. Sadly, many youngsters are missing out on these opportunities.” As a concerned adult, he wonders aloud, “How can we provide more chances for our kids to thrive through sports? If it weren’t for Andrea’s school and that talent-scouting day, she wouldn’t be where she is today.”

Andrea’s diving has gone up a notch… it’s the best I’ve seen’

Instead of: “And that’s a long way from the days when he took Andrea to nursery in a Cinderella or Snow White dress, almost every day. ‘She said, ‘I want to wear that, Daddy.’ I used to dress her up like that! The woman at the nursery was rolling her eyes… But she was three years old. When is she going to do that again? That was a beautiful memory.”

Sirieix has resided in the UK for 32 years, spending more time there than in France. His upcoming book, titled “Seriously British“, set for release in September, is referred to as an expression of deep affection for Britain. Therefore, will his allegiances be divided during a visit to Paris?

He explains, “Though I don’t hold an official British citizenship, I identify with the British culture. I’ll be cheering for Team GB at the upcoming games. Of course, my bias stems from the fact that my daughter is a team member and I’ve interacted with numerous athletes. Yet, I’m eager to introduce France to the Brits and vice versa. I wish the French Olympics are as impressive as the ones held by the Brits in 2012. I was part of the crowd during the Opening Ceremony back then, and my pride knew no bounds.”

Sirieix visited Andrea and Lois for training the day prior to our conversation. According to him, their synchronization was impressive. He remarked that Andrea’s diving had significantly improved. It’s a delight for him to witness this progress, having observed their development over the years, and he considers it the finest he has ever seen. The precision and excellence of their dives are truly remarkable.

He explains that Andrea doesn’t believe that winning is the only important thing: “When she emerges victorious, she consoles the defeated, but ultimately rejoices. Conversely, when she falls short, she applauds the triumphant and sheds a tear or two. By the next hour, however, her focus has moved on.”

At the heart of the Olympics lies this sentiment: “It’s the taking part that counts.” As Pierre de Coubertin reinstated them, he emphasized this idea. With such enthusiasm and joy, she truly embodies this spirit. Her father is undeniably sharing in her excitement as well.

Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix will take part in the 10m synchronized diving event with Lois Toulson on July 31. Starting from August 5, she will also participate in the 10m platform diving competition.

2024-07-26 17:04

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