Fresno State Athletics
Alumni Spotlight: Jessy Saint-Felix
9/3/2024 11:29:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Our alumni spotlight features former Bulldog Jessy Saint-Felix. The 6-2 forward from Le Robert, Martinique played two seasons in a Bulldog uniform from 2013-15 under head coaches Raegen Pebley and Jaime White. During her junior season, Saint-Felix saw action in 15 games including their season opener where she logged a season high of 17 minutes. She finished the year with 34 points, 17 rebounds, and 4 assists. The forward also set career highs against Air Force and helped the Bulldogs win the Mountain West Championship. Her senior season included 15 appearances, a season high of five points against UC Riverside and recorded a season high of four rebounds in the Bulldogs match up against Bethesda.
Q: What is your current profession, and where do you work?Â
Saint- Felix: I had the chance to become a fitness coach in a well established facility in the beautiful city of Paris. I help people achieve their health and wellness goals by giving them tips, strategies, workout plans or nutrition advice.
ÂQ: What do you enjoy most about your current profession?
Saint-Felix: As a coach, I love watching clients make progress and achieve their fitness goals. It is incredibly rewarding. My job, also, allows me to form strong connections with my clients. It helps me stay active by constantly engaging in physical activity regularly and as a result, maintaining my own shape. Each client and session can bring something new and different. So I am continuously learning everyday by staying updated with the latest fitness trends and techniques.
ÂQ: How did your time at Fresno State prepare you for your career and life after college?
Saint-Felix: My time at Fresno State University likely provided me with numerous valuable lessons and skills that have prepared me for my career as a coach. The rigorous training and practice schedules fostered me with discipline and a solid work ethic, which are essential traits for succeeding in any career. Furthemore, Basketball is a team sport that requires constant communication and collaboration, crucial for the things I do in my everyday life. I work with clients, other coaches and other fitness professionals. Also, dealing with wins, losses, and injuries taught me resilience and gave me the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. These are valuable qualities for overcoming the ups and downs in coaching. And lastly, playing at this level, so far away from my family, pushed me to always keep my eyes on the goals (graduating, win championship, be the best teammate I could be) and work tirelessly to achieve them. I kept this mindset and I transfer it directly to helping others set and reach their own goals, whatever those could be.
ÂQ: What is your favorite memory as a student-athlete?Â
Saint-Felix: Winning the Mountain West Championship in Vegas in 2014 was my most favorite moment. For someone who was from Martinique, it was an incredible achievement and a memorable experience with an incredible team.
ÂQ: What do you miss most about your time at Fresno State and being a student-athlete?Â
Saint-Felix: Two things I really miss the most while being a student athlete at Fresno State are the team bonding and the supportive community.Â
The close relationships and bonds I formed with my teammates, coaches, and support staff are irreplaceable. We shared experiences, both on and off the court, with one another, creating a unique sense of family.Â
And, the support from fellow students (regular or other athletes), faculty, and fans created this huge sense of community and belonging. I miss the pride and encouragement from this community.
ÂQ: Looking back at your career, what is one word you'd use to describe it?Â
Saint-Felix: One word that might encapsulate my experience is "Transformative." The personal growth, development, and significant life changes that came from my athletic journey, have shaped me to be who I am today both personally and professionally.
ÂQ: What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to current student-athletes? Â
Saint-Felix: My biggest piece of advice for current student-athletes would be to balance your commitment and cherish the present. Try to manage your time effectively the best you can between academics, athletics, and personal life. But most importantly, enjoy the moment and appreciate the journey. These years are unique and filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and making lasting memories.
ÂQ: If you could give a message to the Fresno State family, what would it be?
Saint Felix: As a proud Fresno State Alumni, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and memorable experiences that define our Bulldog family.Â
Whether as a student-athlete, alumni, faculty, staff, or fan, each of you contributes to this esteemed institution. Together, we've celebrated triumphs, overcome challenges, and forged lifelong bonds that transcend my time on campus.
I believe our shared pride in the Bulldog spirit unites us. As you continue to uphold the values of integrity, resilience, and community, keep on cherishing every moment and uplift
