Next Giubellini at the EM – Swiss women plunge into a new, contrasting adventure – sport

The gymnastics careers of Stefanie Siegenthaler (24) and Chiara Giubellini (16) are at different points. What they both have in common is the start at the European Championships in Munich.

A new era has dawned in Swiss women’s artistic gymnastics. Wendy Bruce-Martin, who has been head coach of the national squad since the end of 2021, will lead the Swiss delegation through international title fights for the first time from August 11 at the European Championships in Munich. David Huser, the head of Olympic missions in the national association, refers to the following initial situation: “With the new strategic orientation, the primary aim for women is to gain initial experience.”

Even within the Swiss team, the balancing act is huge. There are Stefanie Siegenthaler, for example, who is contesting her 5th European Championships after 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2021, or novice Chiara Giubellini at very different poles.

The five-man squad sees itself as a mix of young and experienced athletes. With a place in the team final and fulfilling the World Cup qualification as the top priority, the Swiss women would be “extremely proud”, Siegenthaler defines the goals.

New role + new methods = complete adventure

The 24-year-old from Zurich Oberland became team leader after Giulia Steingruber’s career ended. She associates this new responsibility with great satisfaction, but also with respect. “I’ll still have to find my way into this role,” says Siegenthaler.

The approach to the title fights also experienced a change. The new person responsible, Bruce-Martin, is setting new priorities in the program. Well-established processes now work differently. That is why Siegenthaler points to a “new, exciting adventure in which we still have to find ourselves. Because the changes and interaction require time.”

The uneven bars and bars specialist is determined to support all of her clearly younger team members in the best possible way. Siegenthaler wants to closely flank her companions, especially outside of the competition. They should be made familiar with the big event feeling. “The podium training is crucial. You shouldn’t get stressed there and you shouldn’t exhaust yourself,” says the veteran.

Father Giubellini urges calm

Giubellini will no doubt benefit greatly from Siegenthaler’s experience and advice. The only 16-year-old is about to make her debut in international elite title fights. “Nervous, but also looking forward to it,” says the woman from Aargau, describing her emotional state before the baptism of fire.

But Giubellini can also stock up on plenty of tips within her family. Because her father is Daniel Giubellini. The now 52-year-old amazed in 1990 in Lausanne as European parallel bars champion. In the same year he was also Swiss Sportsman of the Year and was part of the 1992 Olympic delegation. ‘We’re already talking about it. Above all, he instructs me to keep calm,” reveals the daughter.