World Champion Advances Sports Education for Rural Revitalization

Recently, the 26th Graduate Volunteer Teaching Team of Tianjin University launched the innovative "Champion Class," which received enthusiastic responses in Gansu and Xinjiang. Through online sessions with women's volleyball world champion Yao Di and engaging practical training courses, the team introduced a "theory-online + practice-on-site" sports education model at Tangchang No. 1 Middle School in Gansu and Burqin Junior High School in Xinjiang.

In an online class spanning over 3,000 kilometers, Yao Di, a world champion and teacher at Tianjin University, provided students with a vivid look into the daily training of professional athletes. When images of her calloused hands and treated knee injuries appeared on the screen, the students gasped in amazement. "Every perfect spike comes from thousands of practice swings," Yao said, transforming her volleyball training log into an engaging lesson that illustrated the unwavering spirit of perseverance in sports.

Following the online session, Li Yehui, a champion of Tianjin University's "Wang Zhenting Cup" volleyball competition, turned theory into practice. On the green fields of Tangchang No. 1 Middle School, Li incorporated fundamental moves such as bumping and serving into original games like "Energy Transfer" and "Rainbow Relay." The children enthusiastically shouted, "One, two, three, go!" during team matches. "When I saw them huddle together to discuss tactics, I knew the seeds of passion for sports had taken root," Li said.

In recent years, Tianjin University has deepened its Project "Sunshine Sports in Schools" initiative, combined specialized clubs, competitive events, and cultural enrichment into sports. "Sports education is not just about imparting skills but shaping well-rounded individuals," said team leader Sun Jiayi. The team will continue to leverage Tianjin University's top-tier resources to connect more champion athletes with rural students, making sports education a catalyst for rural revitalization.

By: Qin Mian