Tributes Pouring For Ginette Mazel And Her Legacy
Celebrated French basketball player Ginette Mazel, who would have turned 90 on February 1, 2025, is being remembered for her significant contributions to sports and her enduring legacy as well as the contributions of another notable Ginette, Ginette Bihel, who dedicated over 60 years to political activism.
On January 18, 2024, at the first meeting of the year for the Valognes-Bricquebec section of the French Communist Party, current president Rémi Besselièvre honored Ginette Bihel for her lifelong commitment to political activism. Bihel's work within the party left impressions on many during her decades of service.
Besselièvre spoke about Bihel, stating, "Elle était quelqu’un d’exceptionnel, une femme de convictions et de changements, un pilier de notre section," highlighting her unwavering dedication to community service and political engagement.
Meanwhile, Mazel's story is equally noteworthy. A native of Narbonne, Mazel’s influence on basketball is undeniable; she was instrumental not only as a player—winning multiple national championships and representing France at various international competitions including the World Championships—but also as a mentor and coach. Her indirect contribution to the sport will continue through the Ginette-Mazel tournament, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
"On m’a évidemment beaucoup parlé d’elle et de tout ce qu’elle avait apporté au club," reflecting on the impact Mazel had, Nadia Sadni, the current president of the basket club, emphasized how much her legacy lives on today.
Mazel began her basketball career at the young age of 17, when she made her international debut against Belgium. She went on to represent France numerous times, gathering accolades including the title of national champion and competing on the world stage—a feat not many can achieve.
Jacques Pairo, deputy mayor of Narbonne, who worked alongside Mazel during the Mediterranean Games of 1993, reminisced about her strong personality, saying, "Lorsque Ginette Mazel avait une idée, c’était la suivre ou donner de bons arguments," illustrating how her leadership inspired those around her.
Her accolades extend beyond just awards; her commitment to instilling passion and competitiveness among young basketball players shaped Narbonne's sports culture. On December 12, 2024, she was honored with the Ginette-Mazel medal at the first ceremony of the 'lumières,' recognizing her as not only a great athlete but as a mentor who provided strong leadership.
Both women, Bihel and Mazel, represent strong examples of determination and effective leadership extending across different fields. Their legacies serve as reminders of the impact one individual can have on their community, be it through sports or politics.
Highlighting their contributions, the local basketball community will celebrate the Ginette-Mazel tournament with various festivities scheduled for June 7 and 8, 2025, promising to be the biggest event of its kind in Occitanie, featuring performances and festivities to honor her memory.
Through these tributes and celebrations, the stories of Ginette Mazel and Ginette Bihel will not only resonate with those who personally knew them but will also inspire future generations to strive for excellence and engagement within their communities. Their legacies enrich not just the basketball courts and political arenas but the very fabric of Narbonne and Valognes.