Jared Blanke : « proud of our team to make two semi finals under those circumstances »
After his first year in France, we have met Jared Blanke, prop of FC Lézignan, to speak about this season, his life in France and the future.
Jared, can you quickly present yourself ?
I am Jared Blanke. 29 years old, Australian born with German heritage. I have played most of my Rugby League in Queensland Australia with clubs such as Norths Devils (Qld Cup) and West Brisbane Panthers (Brisbane Rugby League), where I was captain.
How do you judge the season of Lézignan?
The season at Lezignan was enjoyable however we were very erratic as a team. Too many changes due to injuries and coaching choices never allowed us to build any kind of momentum. I was proud of our team to make two semi finals under those circumstances.
For your fisrt season, what do you think about the level of Elite 1 and french rugby league ?
The french rugby league is much different from that which I am used to back home. The level varies from game to game. I believe the french would benefit from watching the simplistic style in England/Australia. There are some very good players in the competition which raise its level.
Who is the best player you plain against this season ? And why ?
It’s very difficult to choose the best player. There are many. Lucas Albert struck me as a young star and I found him very impressive. He has a great variation of skills. Fantastic kicking, passing and control as a fiveeight which I found rare in France. He has a strong running game to compliment this which makes him dangerous always. Michael Goudemand also impressed me.
Do you like your France and your life here ?
I love the life in France. I found myself relaxed at all times and the people in Lezignan were wonderful to myself and my family. Something that I will always look back kindly on and be grateful for.
Lezignan fired Jamal Fakir, and it will be Olivier Janzac for next year. What do you think about it ?
I believe Lezignan have made the correct call in this particular instance. I have heard many good things about Olivier and I believe he could be the right man moving forward for FCL.
Are you going to continue with Lézignan next year ?
At this point my future is not completely set. I have taken interest from different teams and I hope to have this sorted out in the next month or so.
Nicolas Jacquemard
