Lightsaber champion: from star wars geek to european grandmaster
Forget the Force. Sébastien Bérard’s path to European lightsaber supremacy began with a simple question: ‘Let’s try it.’ Now, at 40, he’s redefining combat Sports with a polycarbonate blade and a surprisingly strategic approach.
A hobby born of boredom and a podcast
Growing up in the suburbs of Paris, Bérard’s early passion lay with fencing, a discipline he pursued until his mid-twenties. Marathon running offered a temporary escape, but the lack of structure proved unsatisfying. A chance encounter with a podcast discussing the nascent sport of lightsaber duelling sparked an unexpected interest. ‘I’m a geek. I like Star Wars. I’ve done fencing. Let’s try it,’ he recalled, initiating a decade-long obsession.
Beyond the movie magic
What Bérard’s sport lacks in mystical powers, it gains in precision and technique. Unlike theatrical displays of prowess, where flamboyant movements often lead to defeat, this combat relies on calculated defense and strategic targeting. ‘You’re not meant to overpower,’ he explains, ‘it’s a game of touch. A single missed block can cost you dearly.’
Rules of engagement – and a lack of ‘the force’
The rules are surprisingly nuanced, emphasizing defensive maneuvers and penalizing reckless aggression. Each touch results in a point deduction. And, crucially, there’s no ‘Force’ to rely on – competitors wield custom-designed blades made from polycarbonate, shaped for optimal performance rather than replicating iconic movie weaponry.
A community of ‘geeks’ and growing popularity
While many participants are drawn to the sport’s accessible fun, the Paris club boasts around 150 members, a testament to its growing appeal. Tournaments range from regional skirmishes with 40-50 fighters to the prestigious French Open, attracting 80-90 competitors from across Europe. Bérard has accumulated an impressive 40 victories, though he declines to quantify his global ranking, stating that the European title remains his primary focus.
More than just a game: a sustainable sport
Bérard’s dedication extends beyond competition. He generously donates many of his winnings to the club, ensuring resources for equipment and training. ‘It’s still new, but it’s growing,’ he notes, highlighting the increasing number of clubs popping up worldwide and the surge in online viewership. ‘Even my colleagues from work have started coming to support me,’ he adds with a wry smile.
A legacy forged in steel and strategy
From a casual interest sparked by a podcast to a reign as Europe’s top lightsaber duellist, Bérard’s journey is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take. It's a far cry from the suburbs of Paris, yet he remains grounded, a champion not just of the lightsaber, but of a unique community built on skill, strategy, and a shared love for a galaxy far, far away.