André ASCENCIO

André Ascencio was born in Algeria, but of French nationality. He was a player who would leave an indelible mark on Stade Rennais in the 1950s and 1960s, both with his technical ability and his ability to cover every blade of grass on the pitch. Initially developed in Oran, in his birthplace, he joined the Red and Blacks in 1957 to play as a striker, the role he had been accustomed to during his apprenticeship. He wouldn't find his way onto the starting line-up until February 1958, scoring on his full debut in a Second Division match against Montpellier (4-1). From 1957-1961 he would only play in ten or so matches on average per season, and progressively found himself playing in a more withdrawn role as a midfielder. It wasn't until the 1961/1962 season that he really made a place in the starting line-up his own, staying there in the years that followed. As a fine playmaker, he became the talisman for the club. He was even considered back then as one of the best midfielders in the First Division. He would score in Stade Rennais' first French Cup Final in 1965, which went to a replay, and was subsequently won by the Red and Blacks against Sedan. Having spent ten seasons at Stade Rennais, making a total of 250 appearances, netting 26 times during his stay, he departed Rennes to sign for Second Division Lorient in 1967. He stayed with Lorient for two seasons before hanging up his boots as a player. After retiring from football, he became an insurance salesman until he ended his working career in 1969. He passed away, aged 79, on 23rd September 2017 in Cesson-Sevigné