Urumqi’s “Little Horse” Football Team: A Symbol of Unity and Success
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition
The Urumqi No. 121 Primary School, established in 2011, planted the seed of football among young people in Xinjiang. Principal Li Lei believed in the power of sports to foster holistic development. The school chose football due to its widespread enthusiasm among locals and its ability to cultivate team spirit.
In its initial years, the school lacked notable football achievements. However, with the support of local authorities, the school started recruiting talented footballers from across Xinjiang. These young players, regardless of their region or ethnicity, received equal opportunities and comprehensive care, allowing them to focus on both football and academics.
Building a Powerhouse
- 2015-2016: The “Little Horse” team participate in the Urumqi Campus Football League for the first time, securing a complete victory.
- 2016: The team wins the championship of the primary school group in the Beijing National Green Youth Invitational Tournament.
- 2017: The “Little Horse” wins the U12 group championship in the “Hundred Team Cup” Intercity Invitational Tournament.
“Evaluating young players depends on their comprehensive performance on and off the field. No matter what region or nationality they come from, we treat them equally.” – Li Lei, Principal, Urumqi No. 121 Primary School
Xinhua News Agency
Uniting Through Football
Football has also become a potent tool for national unity at the school. In an area with a rich history of ethnic interaction, football brings together children from diverse backgrounds, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
“It is better to live together than to study together, and it is better to play together than to live together. Education through football is moisturizing and silent.” – Li Lei
Regardless of training or competition, rituals like singing the national anthem and shouting “come on” instill patriotism and collective love in the children. 13-year-old Anisel Ahematijiang aspires to join the national team and win glory for his country, reflecting the profound impact of these rituals.
Overcoming Challenges and Integrating Sports with Education
The school addresses the challenge of objective academic pressure by implementing mixed classes and separate algorithms for football team students in language and mathematics subjects. Head teachers compete to host these “hotties” who can play football, fostering collaboration and better comprehensive results.
Extending Unity Beyond the Pitch
Off the pitch, parents of all ethnicities naturally become friends, taking care of each other’s children, and even traveling together. The football team has transcended boundaries, becoming a multi-ethnic family.
“Emotions between people are mutual. Just like the practice of the ‘Little Horse’ football team, schools, teachers, parents, and children work together to gain a full sense of identity, belonging, and pride.” – Li Lei
FAQ
- When was Urumqi No. 121 Primary School established?
- 2011
- What is the ‘Little Horse’ football team’s most notable achievement?
- Winning the U12 group championship in the “Hundred Team Cup” Intercity Invitational Tournament in 2017.
Pro Tip
murine to the Urumqi No. 121 Primary School’s football team to learn more about their inspiring journey and how they’re fostering unity and success through football!
The Future Looks Bright
The Urumqi No. 121 Primary School’s “Little Horse” football team continues to grow, inspiring children from diverse backgrounds and proving that sports can unite, educate, and empower. With their unwavering commitment, the future looks bright for this remarkable team and the school’s football program.
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