Meet the Coach Behind JN Performance
We interviewed Joe to dive deep into his journey as a coach, his philosophy, and the milestones he has achieved while working with top athletes.
From his passion for the Olympics that started in childhood to preparing athletes for the world's biggest sporting events, Joe shares his unique insights into high-performance training, personal growth, and the crucial role a coach plays in an athlete's overall development.
In this interview, he offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of coaching at the elite level, and his vision for helping athletes reach their full potential.
Let's Get Into It...
What is your coaching philosophy or approach?
My philosophy is that the athlete is the centre, the key of the performance—like a diamond. My goal is to help this diamond shine as bright as possible, so I need to find the way to help each athlete develop all their potential.
What inspired you to become a coach for Olympic athletes?
I dreamed about the Olympics from my childhood. At the same time, I was looking to work on a motivating project—and what could be more motivating than achieving my dream and helping prepare athletes for the Olympics?
Can you share your educational background and any relevant certifications?
I have a Master's degree in High Performance Training (Strength and Conditioning).
I also hold a Diplôme Universitaire (University Diploma) in Strength and Conditioning and Re-athletisation.
How long have you been coaching athletes, and what levels have you coached?
I started coaching in 2015. During my internship, I had the opportunity to coach plenty of youth players. I’ve coached every level—from beginners to international players—and after a few years, I had the opportunity to work with the French table tennis team where I prepared for two Olympic cycles.
What notable achievements have you accomplished as a coach?
Preparing a player over 30 years old for the Tokyo Olympics despite the distance! We organized a plan and did video sessions for two years—and finally, she finished 4th in mixed doubles. It was such a great experience and I learned a lot.
Have you worked with any high-profile athletes or teams?
I have worked with the French table tennis team.
I also worked at INSEP, where I had a group of 6 to 10 players depending on the season. During some training camps, I had the chance to work with the best players in the country: Félix, Alexis Lebrun, Simon Gauzy, Prithika Pavade, and others.
What are some of the key milestones in your coaching career?
Being hired as the head physical trainer for the French women's team at age 23. It was the first time I could really experience high-level performance, adaptation, and emotional intelligence—and I learned so much.
Then, the 2021 Olympic qualification was incredible. I had the chance to travel with the French team to Portugal to try to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics, and it was an amazing experience! We won two tickets to the Olympics even though we were outsiders. I experienced the pressure of a major event and tried to help the players as much as I could—and we made it!
If I had to pick one last moment, it would be the Paris Olympics 2024. Even though I wasn’t with the team during the main event, I watched both French teams and felt so proud of what we, as a staff, contributed to. Having players qualify, changing the vision of the sport, and feeling the energy around us was incredible. This wasn’t my work alone—a lot of people contributed far more than me—but I know I was part of it, and I’m so proud. One of the best feelings in my whole life.
How would you describe your coaching style?
I’m all about communication. Before every session, I make sure I know how my players are doing—physically and emotionally. Then I try to push them to reach their best every session.
What methods or techniques do you use to motivate your athletes?
It depends on the player. Sometimes I give them a physical challenge and make a bet with them. Sometimes I send them inspirational videos. But mostly, it’s one-on-one talks outside of training—focusing on why we do this and what it takes daily to achieve our goals.
How do you tailor training to each athlete?
I take time to speak and understand their needs. I also spend a lot of time watching them in matches to observe from my perspective. Then, we share our thoughts and I adjust the program accordingly.
What is your vision for the future of your coaching program?
Right now, I just want to share and help people through my program. I’ve seen a lot of people struggling and asking me about these topics—that’s why I want to provide something structured and effective for as many people as possible.
What are your long-term goals for the athletes you train?
I want them to know themselves better, to stay healthy, to keep learning new skills, and to reach their personal goals!
What do you enjoy most about coaching?
I love getting to know each individual. Every person is a mystery, and my goal is to find the right keys to help them improve!
What are some of your personal interests outside of coaching?
I love music, I play bass, and I LOOOOVVVEE salsa—even though I’m a beginner!
Do you have a favorite quote or philosophy that guides you?
"I've missed 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times I've been trusted to take the winning shot and I've missed. I've failed again and again and again in my life. And that's why I succeed."
– Michael Jordan
