AS Saint-Étienne added a new trophy to its cabinet thanks to physical trainer Philippe Djo Petitjean, who claimed his tenth regional hurdles title on July 2 2026 in Vénissieux. The victory cements his dominance in Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alpes over the past six years.

Who is Philippe Djo Petitjean?

Philippe Djo Petitjean, a member of Décines‑Meyzieu Athletics, has been AS Saint-Étienne’s fitness coach since 2021. Born March 14 1992, he balances a high‑level athletics career with his club duties, allowing him to bring cutting‑edge training methods directly onto the pitch.

What titles has he won?

In six seasons he collected six indoor titles and four outdoor titles, reaching a total of ten regional crowns. The latest, won on July 2 2026 in Vénissieux, saw him clear the 106‑cm hurdle in 13.45 seconds, a personal best. He missed only two championships, in June 2022 and June 2025, due to injury.

Why do these successes matter for AS Saint-Étienne?

The club’s technical staff values versatility. Petitjean’s achievements inspire players, offering a model of discipline and progress. Moreover, his victories raise the club’s profile in the region, attracting young prospects eager to train alongside a champion.

What’s next for the trainer?

After his tenth title, Petitjean aims for the national athletics championship in 2027. He is also developing a specific fitness program for the 2026‑27 AS Saint-Étienne season, incorporating hurdle drills to boost the speed and explosiveness of the attackers. Fans are keen to see how these new methods will affect the team’s Ligue 2 performance.