On September 27, 2024, CDUT’s College of International Education (Oxford Brookes College) provided a memorable cultural experience for 100 international students and joint-program attendees by inviting them to witness the exhilarating action of the Chinese Super League (CSL) at Chengdu’s Phoenix Hill Football Stadium.
Before the Match
Students and faculty gathered at the campus gates, donning red school uniforms and brimming with excitement. As they set off on buses, led by their dedicated counselors, conversations buzzed with lively discussions about the CSL, favorite teams, and shared football passions, fostering a spirited and communal atmosphere.
During the Match
Arriving at the stadium, the group was immediately struck by the electric atmosphere. As they entered the spacious, light-filled arena, the sight of fans clad in team colors, proudly waving flags, and erupting in cheers created a palpable energy that swept through the crowd. The thunderous applause and chants of support resonated deeply, creating lasting impressions on everyone present.
From the first whistle, players from both teams demonstrated remarkable skill and determination, with each pass and shot keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The stadium announcer skillfully rallied the crowd, channeling enthusiasm and rallying support for the athletes on the field.
As the game progressed, moments of triumph and tension filled the stadium. Every goal scored and each spectacular save sent the crowd into a frenzy, igniting a collective excitement that words can scarcely capture. Immersed in the fervor of the moment, students found themselves cheering along with the crowd, experiencing firsthand the unparalleled unifying power of football.
During the halftime break, students eagerly shared how watching a CSL match live had been an invaluable experience. They not only witnessed the intensity and allure of football but also gained insights into how to appreciate and critically assess a match. Many remarked that they planned to channel their newfound enthusiasm for football into their everyday lives, embracing sports activities to enhance their physical fitness and overall competencies.
After the Match
Following the game, CDUT’s teachers and students gathered for a group photo, celebrating this unforgettable football journey. Participants shared that the event not only gave them the joy of experiencing football but also fostered a stronger sense of cohesion and team spirit within their groups. Looking ahead, they are eager to continue supporting Chinese football and contribute to its growth.
This successful event, organized by the College of International Education for international students and joint-program attendees, offered students a platform to showcase their enthusiasm, build friendships, and gain a deeper understanding of football’s essence and significance.
Students reflected on the experience, saying it had brought them closer to the world of football, sparking their interest in the sport. They also highlighted that the event instilled in them the values of teamwork, resilience, and competitive spirit—qualities they intend to apply in their studies and future endeavors.
Looking to the future, the students at the College of International Education (Oxford Brookes College) are expected to carry forward their passion for sports and their drive for personal excellence, continually adding new and vibrant chapters to their stories.
