Zhao’s choice striking the right balance

For young striker Zhao Yujie, studying and playing soccer is not a zero-sum game. The 19-year-old is currently playing and pursuing her degree at Florida State University.

“I want to play abroad, but I have to pursue my studies at university at the same time,” Zhao told Xinhua during the 2018 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in France, where China qualified through last year’s AFC U19 Women’s Championship.

Born and raised in Shanghai, Zhao won a Youth Olympic Games gold medal in 2014 and China’s National Games U18 division title with Shanghai three years later.

“My parents didn’t want me to fail in my studies because of playing football,” Zhao said. “That’s acceptable. I think not many parents want their kids to be exposed to the sun or play in the pouring rain. My coaches also helped a lot in changing my parents’ mindset.”

Several coaches advised her to play for a foreign college team while pursuing her degree.

“From those who had similar experience, they knew it would be a valuable experience if I could overcome the difficulty of studying and living abroad,” Zhao said.

She began to prepare for compulsory exams and had to sacrifice some rest to take online classes. After receiving her scores, she applied to American universities.

She didn’t wait long for a full scholarship offer from Florida State. “It was not just about a dream coming true, but paving an excellent path for other girls like me,” Zhao said.

After arriving in the United States in January, Zhao has just completed her first semester while striking a good balance between studies and training.

“The first semester was fine for me; the next one will be a huge challenge because the team flies everywhere to play NCAA matches,” said Zhao, who was called up to the national team early in 2016.

“I have learned a lot from the veterans and their fighting spirit has motivated me,” she added.

Zhao has another dream in mind.

“I want to play for a foreign club, like Manchester City or Arsenal. It’s a long way to go, and you never know what awaits you next. But first I hope to make some contributions to Shanghai, where I grew up,” she said. bigger