TWG 2025 Sports Flourish in China's Universities

In recent years, sports such as Lacrosse, Baseball - Softball, Flying Disc, and American Football (Flag Football) have seen remarkable growth across China, with an increasing number of universities forming teams or introducing related courses. This trend highlights the country's growing embrace of diverse athletic disciplines and its efforts to foster a vibrant sports culture.

 

 

Founded in 2023, the Chengdu University Lacrosse Team has quickly risen to prominence. Coach Xia Chunqiu, reflecting on the sport's future, remarked, "Lacrosse is included in the programmes of both The World Games 2025 and the LA 2028 Summer Olympics. Every athlete dreams of the Olympics, and I believe my team and I have the confidence and ability to chase that dream!"

 

 

Despite its recent establishment, the team has achieved remarkable success. At the 2024 National Lacrosse Championship, held from 1 to 5 August, this team secured second place in the Men's Adult Division, third place in the Men's Adult Division, and second place in the Women's Adult Division, demonstrating their rapid growth and potential.

 

 

Beyond Chengdu University, the others have embraced emerging sports. In 2018, Northwest University introduced a foundational elective course in Baseball - Softball, offering engaging content that encourages students to deeply experience the joy of this sport.

 

 

In the fall semester of 2024, Yunnan University further diversified its physical education offerings by adding American Football (Flag Football) and Flying Disc (Ultimate) to its curriculum. The courses received an enthusiastic response, with many students eagerly enrolling to explore these dynamic sports.

 

As part of the official programme for The World Games 2025, Lacrosse, Baseball - Softball, Flying Disc, and American Football will take centre stage in Chengdu this year. More and more thrilling competitions will showcase the passion and talent cultivated across China's campuses.

 

Image source: Chengdu University and Northwest University

Edited by Zhang Hang