Portrait of Anaë Leleu, winner of the adidas Breaking Barriers Project x Sportiw contest
Hi, my name is Anaë. I’m 21 years old, I’m from Rouen, and I currently play for the Glacerie Basket club in Nationale 2.
Let's talk about your basketball journey, how did you discover this sport and why did you choose it?
Well, I discovered basketball simply through my family. My whole family has been immersed in basketball for years—my cousins, my sisters, my parents—that’s why I chose basketball. I was with the AL Césaire Levillain, which is a small club near Rouen. Then, I went to the Pôle Espoir, and after that, I joined Glacerie in U18 Elite. I’m still playing there today in Nationale 2.
Outside of playing basketball, you study economics and management. Why did you choose this path?
I like everything related to business, whether it’s human resources, marketing, finance, or another area. Business touches a bit of everything, so that’s why I chose economics and management.
What values do you consider essential in basketball, and how do you embody them daily?
I would say that team spirit is important. You can’t play a team sport without having team spirit. Competitiveness is also very important in sports in general. I would say it’s a healthy competitiveness.
How did you hear about Sportiw and how do you use it?
I heard about Sportiw through ads on Instagram. I checked it out, started to get interested in the platform, and signed up. You need to update your CV regularly—I try to do it as often as possible. Then, recruiters can send you messages, which allows for direct connections with coaches or agents.
What was your experience like at the training academy and how did it influence your development as a player?
The training academy at Glacerie was very enriching for me as an athlete and a person. I was able to develop my sports skills and enrich myself through various encounters throughout my journey.
How do you manage the pressure and expectations while being in a training academy?
To manage the pressure, I try to set goals and focus on them without getting scattered. I also have extracurricular activities that allow me to escape and not think only about sports. That’s why studies are so important, so you can have a dual path and not focus solely on one thing.
Have you experienced any difficult moments in your career and can you tell us about how you overcame them?
The most difficult moment in my career so far has been my foot injury. It was tough at first because a major injury is always difficult to handle. I had a hard time coming back, but I was supported and I had other interests at that time, fortunately. Mentally, it was very complicated but I managed to get back on the field and that’s the main thing.
There's more and more talk about the importance of mental health for athletes. Why do you think this is an important conversation?
For me, mental health is very important in sports in general. I think it’s even more important than physical health. Mental strength allows you to achieve your goals, surpass your limits, and excel.
Do you think women's sports receive the recognition they deserve?
Women’s sports are developing and progressing a lot, but there is still a long way to go in comparison to men’s sports—both in terms of media coverage and athletes’ salaries. There’s still a lot to improve.
Why do you think the adidas Breaking Barriers Project is important for women and girls in sports?
The adidas Breaking Barriers Project promotes women’s sports and gives a voice to women athletes. It’s a good start and a good project for promoting women’s sports.
Do you have a memorable moment from the weekend in Lyon when you met the ASVEL players?
I would say it was the interview with Héléna Ciak and Alexia Chery. They showed me that they are not just athletes, but also women with lives off of the court. They talked to me about what they do before games and many little things you don’t think about when you see them playing on the court.
You had the opportunity to see your former coach, Yoann Cabioc’h, who will take over the LDLC ASVEL women's team next season. What was your experience with him at USLG?
It had been a long time since I saw Yoann. We were able to discuss sports and professional matters. He is someone who trusted me at Glacerie during training in N1 and Ligue 2. I wish him the best for next year as the coach of the LDLC ASVEL women’s team.
This was Anaë with Sportiw and adidas Breaking Barriers.
We thank Anaë for sharing her experience with us and wish her much success in the future! Discover the profiles of the other winners from the first edition of the adidas Breaking Barriers Project x Sportiw contest by clicking here.