Zhejiang University's global football community

One goal, many cultures

In the vibrant community of Zhejiang University's campus, football serves as a universal language that transcends borders and connects students from diverse backgrounds. The university's football scene has become a melting pot where international and local students join forces, representing the power of sports to bridge cultures.

Imad, a master's student studying PIEGL, recounts how he joined the team through informal encounters on the field. "I met some team members during casual 5 vs 5 soccer matches. We exchanged WeChat contacts, and soon after, I was invited to join the team for competitions. From the first friendly match, the team's welcoming atmosphere made me feel at home, a sentiment echoed by other international students." Although most training sessions are conducted in Chinese, the team strives to be inclusive, with the captain occasionally switching to English to address international members. Imad notes, "It's a small adjustment that makes the team more welcoming and diverse."

The Football Team

The Anzhong United Football Team (安中联) actively participates in various competitions organized by the university, such as friendly matches with other colleges. The team also engages in weekly training sessions.

DU Jingyi, a second year masters student, serves as the manager of the Anzhong United Football Team, sheds light on the team's formation and objectives. "Our team is a mix of international and local students brought together by a shared love for football. The joining of international students into the team has made our interactions on and off the field more diverse and international." She believes that having a platform where individuals, irrespective of their college or country, can play football together and are all driven by a genuine love for the sport, is both rare and delightful.

Forming bonds on the field

The sports fields at Zhejiang University are more than a competitive arena; it's a welcoming space where cultural diversity thrives. Friendships flourish, and mutual respect grows, exemplifying the students’ enthusiasm for inclusivity. As football remains a bridge for cultural exchange, students eagerly anticipate more shared victories and bonding experiences on the field. Beyond the pursuit of goals, the emphasis lies in fostering connections that surpass language and cultural barriers. Zhejiang University students extend welcoming spirits across all aspects of campus life.

Writer: QIAO Xiaoxia  

Photo：DU Jingyi, Sonya David