“Village Boundary Cup” and “Village BA” Fair Highlights Grassroots Sports in Jiangsu and Zhejiang
The Central Government’s recent emphasis on promoting mass cultural and sports activities has sparked a resurgence of rural competitions in various regions. The “Village Boundary Cup” in Peixian County, Jiangsu, and the “Village BA” in Zhuji, Zhejiang, are just a few examples of the down-to-earth and popular events that are revitalizing rural areas.
With games drawing enthusiastic players and audiences alike, rural competitions have become a cornerstone for promoting cultural and sports activities in local communities. The success of these events lies in their ability to engage residents in activities that are not only entertaining but also promote physical fitness and community spirit.
At the Zhuji “Village BA”, a local villager turned commentator, Huang Weifei, has found success in live broadcasting basketball games, attracting tens of thousands of viewers. The event has garnered registrations from over 300 village-level teams and over 4,200 participants, showcasing the deep-rooted love and interest in basketball among Zhuji residents.
Meanwhile, in Peixian County, football takes center stage with the “Village Boundary Cup” attracting thousands of spectators during its annual competition. The event has a long history, with villagers recalling the days of playing football matches on makeshift fields with makeshift equipment.
To enhance the event experience, organizers have focused on infrastructure development, introducing unique activities such as the “Fun Shooting” game during halftime breaks. By finding a balance between professionalism and popularity, these events have been able to attract sponsors, increasing their commercial value and benefiting the local economy.
The impact of these grassroots sports events goes beyond entertainment, with Zhang Haixiao, secretary of the Lulou Town Party Committee, noting the positive development opportunities and increased income for villagers. The success of events like the “Village BA” has not only promoted national fitness but also strengthened the sense of community and rural civilization.
As rural competitions continue to gain momentum, it is clear that paying attention to grassroots sports can have a profound impact on local communities, promoting healthy living, community engagement, and economic development.