Two champions crowned this weekend in Division 1 and 2.
The Rouen Huskies
Their 18th title adds to the Rouen Huskies’ impressive record after a 2023 season filled with uncertainty. The coaching change (Becquey replacing Marche), more refined international recruitment, and perfect adaptation to the new JFL rules were the keys to their success. The Savigny Lions were strong but carried the mental burden of being homeless. They couldn’t stand up to the relentless Rouen attacks, the solid defense, or the nearly flawless pitching.
Now that the season is over, we’ll look back at the cross-cutting themes that marked this Division 1 championship: the field, broadcasting, youth development, recruiting local and foreign players, professionalization…
Quentin Becquey’s comments in France 3 Normandie’s newspaper:
It’s a relief. I’m extremely happy because it’s been a lot of work. The guys have struggled all year. Still, this victory was hard-fought against the Savigny Lions: « We were held in check almost until the end. It was guts, experience, and team spirit that made the difference. I think it was the toughest match of the season, but we managed to hold on.
The Béziers Pirates
The same goes for the Béziers Pirates, who won this final in three games. The third took place this Sunday due to the rainout the day before. Valenciennes couldn’t contain the Béziers team, especially their dominant pitcher Nicolas Dazell. After being multiple-time Division 2 French champions and falling last year in the playoff against Metz, the Division 1 grail is secured. Next year, Montigny will battle in Division 2, and Béziers finally earns their promotion. The D1 championship will transform with four clubs in the greater southwest—Montpellier, Toulouse, Béziers, and La Rochelle—two Parisian teams, one Norman, and one in the east.
Comments from François Bonnet, president of the Pirates Club:
We win this third match, much like the first two, with a calm lineup that well supported our dominant pitcher Dazell, who was as dominant as he was all season. Key additions like Garcia behind the plate were decisive in this wide victory, not to forget our JFL pitchers from the France Pole who delivered.
This promotion crowns 10 years of hard work and a third title in four years. The challenge ahead is enormous. We’ll start discussions with local partners next week to prepare.
