Bytagand the publication "Nicolas Vauchelles: a passion in the service of education"
Behind every sports enthusiast lies a story, a journey made of challenges, successes and lessons. Nicolas Vauchelles perfectly embodies this dynamic. PE teacher, coach, organizer of mountain bike events and now author, he never ceases to transmit his love of sport and his experience. On the occasion of the release of his book PE teacher, it's a job, we met him to find out more about his career, his vision of sport and his commitment.
By Jean-François Tatard – Photos: DR
The beginnings of a passion: mountain biking as a matter of course
It was at the age of 11 that Nicolas discovered mountain biking.. " I got a mountain bike for my 11th birthday in 1993, and my father rode bikes at the Marines club. I quickly felt the need to leave the route to explore the undergrowth trails. "The freedom and pleasure of mountain biking became obvious to him. After a few local competitions, he took part in the Val d'Oise Trophy in 1996. A decisive turning point that sealed his attachment to this sport.
Between teaching and coaching: a natural balance
A PE teacher during the day, a coach and organizer in the evening and on weekends, Nicolas skillfully juggles his different roles. « With experience, you learn to optimize your time. Coaching is done by exchanging with the athletes. And the organization of the races requires upstream management over several months. » A busy schedule, certainly, but driven by an unwavering passion.
A coaching philosophy focused on trust
For Nicholas, Coaching is based on a relationship of mutual trust. " I have to know everything about the athlete to offer him optimal training. He has to trust me and follow my advice to the letter. » Communication plays a key role. Frequent exchanges, feedback and adaptation to the athletes' feelings are his watchwords. His philosophy?
Transparency and total commitment, transmitting fundamental values
Whether in class or on a bike, Nicolas makes a point of transmitting essential values: surpassing oneself, perseverance and commitment.. " In PE, I encourage my students to get out of their comfort zone. In mountain biking, this involves intense efforts. No pain, no gain! »
Event organizer: a commitment to the community
Faced with the decline of local competitions during the Covid period, Nicolas decided to take action. He organized his own races to maintain a strong local dynamic. Since 2021, he has set up several events, always with the same motivation: to discover new playgrounds and unite enthusiasts.
Writing: a desire to sharetage
His book PE teacher, it’s a job was born from an observation: PE is much more than a simple school subject. It is the only subject where students move, feel emotions. I wanted totagand everyday anecdotes, thoughts on education and sport. » Its goal? To make people smile, but also to raise awareness.
A strong message on education and sport
Through his book, Nicolas wants to highlight the importance of sport as a vector of educational values. " Too many children do not have access to sport, even though it gives them autonomy, respect and self-knowledge. Sport is life! »
A life punctuated by mountain biking
A real common thread in his daily life, mountain biking is omnipresent. Whether it’s for my training, my work with students or my club activities, the bike is everywhere! » He combines competitions, coaching, organization and training, always finding a new goal to achieve..
Highlights and challenges met
Among his most memorable memories, he cites his integration into Team VTT Bianchi in 1998 and his Ufolep national title in 2008. But his biggest challenges are recent: passing the EPS aggregation in 2019 and diversifying into coaching and training.
The evolution of mountain biking: between diversification and professionalization
According to Nicolas, mountain biking is constantly evolving, with a diversification of practices (gravel, enduro, XC, etc.) and increased demands at the professional level. « The courses are increasingly technical, the equipment ultra-high-performance, but we must be careful not to make the sport too exclusive. »
A personalized approach to coaching
No miracle recipe, but an approach tailored to each athlete. " I take into account his environment, his constraints, his objectives. The training must be tailor-made, integrating all the variables. » Its goal? To allow everyone to reach their full potential.
Transmission and team spirit
Whether with his students or the young mountain bikers in the club, Nicolas focuses on friendliness and collective emulation. Team spirit also means knowing how to encourage others, bytagget advice and progress together. »
An Inspiring Teacher and Coach
Through his experience, Nicolas illustrates how sport is a school of life. " Mountain biking, like any sport, teaches respect, perseverance and emotional management. "His advice?" Always seek to go further, give yourself the means to succeed and never set limits. »
A subtle balance between passion and personal life
Despite a busy schedule, Nicolas manages to maintain a balance. I've reduced my teaching hours to devote more time to coaching. And I organize my days according to my priorities. »
EPS: an educational mission
Selon's, PE does not only train athletes, but citizens. " We are not looking for future champions, but to awaken passions, develop social skills and encourage autonomy. »
And tomorrow?
For the future, Nicolas wants to continue his coaching activity, continue to organize his races and perhaps… write a second book! « If the first one works, I already have ideas to go further. »
Nicolas Vauchelles is a passionate man who never stops exploring new horizons, always with the desire to transmit and inspire. His career proves that passion and commitment can take you far, as long as you give yourself the means.
His book Sports teacher, it's a job Is available on Amazon at the price of €10,50. A must read for all lovers of sport and education!
