All About Miss Rachael

We could not be prouder of our very own Rachael Vella. Not only is she passionate about her physie but she is also a dedicated teacher to our tiny tots and junior girls. The illustrious title of Champion girl belongs to a small percentage of the physie world and Rachael has worked hard to earn the title and honour three times. We recently asked the VERY quiet and focused Rachael a few questions about becoming a champion and her love of physie. Here is what she had to say:

When did you start physie?

I started Physie at the age of 2 in 2001 at Guildford Physie in the small room at Guildford church.

What do you enjoy most about physie?

I enjoy having something that I can call " Home" and being able to strive for my best. I think of Physie as something very personal to me and very special. I also enjoy getting ready for the opera house and getting all dressed up, its very fun. I enjoy seeing my students improve and grow as well. That's extremely rewarding.

How often do you practice?

I attend my weekly trainings and then usually when it's down to Comp times, I try to train every day with break every now and then.

What do you do to prepare for a physie competition?

You will always find me with music in my ears, listening to my favourite songs before a Comp. Some years I have a particular song that I always listen too before a comp. Then I always do a very good stretching session stretching my whole body. Then I go through my routines 3 or 4 times. My Mum and Dad, Nan and sister Nichole are always there watching me and they always tell me to do my best.

Tell us how it feels to win a national title?

An accomplishment like winning a national title is very exhilarating and a proud moment. Each time that I have won a national title it feels like everything happens at once and when your running over to claim the trophy as yours, is a moment that can't be replaced.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time I love to get my head into the Harry Potter books and DVDs. I'm a bit of a fanatic. I like to play my all time Nintendo favourites, Zelda and Mario games, and I love hanging out with my family. My favourite place to go to is Drumoynne.

Which routine do you enjoy the most?

My favourite routine is the relaxed because I love ballet and I love being able to play around with light and shade and emotion in that routine.

What advice do you have for physie girls?

My advice is to enjoy Physie, that's extremely important. To make friends and and have a goal and work towards it. They can be small goals or big goals. Also I suggest watching the seniors. I remember when I was young my mum always told me to watch them to see what I can possibly achieve. The best moment is at the Opera House when the seniors are at their pinnacle of their Physie. However, it's just as important seeing the older girls train, because even when they find things hard or make mistakes they keep going and practice, practice, practice. This is great for younger Physie girls to see and role model to them.

You can also see Rachael on the BJP website Hall of Champions 2015