Zhejiang University High-Level Women's Volleyball Team clinches fourth place at national finals

On May 29, 2026, the finals of the 2025-2026 Chinese University Volleyball League (CUVA) concluded in Xiamen, Fujian Province. The Zhejiang University (ZJU) High-Level Women's Volleyball Team delivered an outstanding performance, securing fourth place nationally after eight days of intense competition.

The tournament brought together the top 24 university teams from across the country. In the group stage, the ZJU team demonstrated dominant form, advancing to the knockout stage with four consecutive victories. They defeated Sun Yat-sen University, Ocean University of China, and Sichuan University with straight 3-0 wins. In their final group match against the Minzu University of China, the ZJU players staged a dramatic comeback, saving multiple set points from a 17-24 deficit to win the set 29-27, ultimately securing the top spot in their group.

The knockout stage presented unexpected challenges. During the first round against Jilin University, ZJU's key attacker, XU Aining, suffered an avulsion fracture and was rushed to the hospital. Despite the sudden setback, the team quickly adjusted, with substitutes stepping up to secure a 3-0 victory and a spot in the top eight. In the quarterfinals, ZJU continued their strong run by defeating East China Normal University 3-0 to advance to the semifinals.

In the semifinals, ZJU faced Fudan University in a closely contested match, ultimately falling 1-3. In the bronze medal match against Central China Normal University, last year's runner-up, ZJU fought hard but lost 1-3, finishing fourth in the national tournament.

In addition to the team's success, ZJU received two individual honors. Coach LUO Wenxin was named Outstanding Coach, and XU Aining was awarded Best Outside Hitter. The team's performance throughout the tournament showcased their resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Adapted and translated from the article written by Zhejiang University High-Level Women's Volleyball Team
Translator: JIANG Chenqi ('27, Structural Engineering)
Photo: the interviewees
Editor: JIANG Chenqi, DING Chenwei