Sixtine Aelion: SKEMA Student and Elite Hockey Player

Sixtine, you benefit from a special arrangement that allows you to balance your studies and sporting career. Could you tell us more about this support?

Yes, SKEMA offers a programme tailored for elite athletes, which provides significant flexibility in my schedule. This allows me to attend competitions and training sessions without compromising my academic progress. My absences are authorised, and I receive personalised support to keep up with my coursework. This is crucial as I train around six hours a week for hockey, along with an additional five physical sessions under the guidance of the French U21 team’s trainer. This arrangement helps me stay focused on my studies, though it requires rigorous organisation on a daily basis. I’m currently preparing for the TAGE and TOEIC exams, hoping to join SKEMA’s Master in Management (PGE) programme next year.
 

At what level do you compete in field hockey?

I play for the French U21 team, and for the past ten years, I have been part of the Lille Métropole Hockey Club, competing in France’s top division. We’ve achieved strong results, including a runner-up position in the French championship and several international experiences. I took part in the European Championship with the French U18 team in Germany in July 2023, followed by another with the French U21 team in Spain last summer. With Lille Hockey Club, we also competed in two European championships, in September 2021 in France and April 2022 in Italy.
 

What is your role on the field?

I play as a right centre-back, a pivotal defensive role that allows me to shape the game from the back. It requires strong game-reading skills and a strategic vision to coordinate plays. My aim is to distribute the ball, set the pace, and support the team in building offensive plays. This position enables me to be both a solid defensive presence and a key link in attack-building phases.

Know more about ESDHEM, undergraduate programme proposed by SKEMA Business School