Now that’s a student-athlete experience. 當學生運動員就是這樣做得

Just when you think it can’t get any better for the Muskies here in China…it does. Our students were able to experience being a student-athlete at SFU today. Our morning was filled with attending a Basic Chinese class, instructed by Guo Guojiao at SFU’s International Exchange Building. Many of the girls were able to pick up some basic speaking and writing skills fairly quickly. Ms. Guojiao spent majority of the time on teaching the different sounds and tones of the Chinese language.

There are 38 different finals (vowels) 23 different initials (consonants) and four different tones. To become more acquainted with the language, the students did exercises like speaking in front of the class, role playing, and also a game of Chinese charades.

More photos available here

It was after about 2 ½ hours of class when the team was ready to test their new skills outside of the classroom. Sophomore, Rachael Millner caught on well and even impressed Professor David Lynch when he quizzed the players on the bus on the way to the hotel. I really have enjoyed hearing the team become more confident trying to use new phrases they have learned in class with others outside of our group. I am anxious to see how much more they learn after two more classes with Ms. Guojiao this week.

The team walked to the campus cafeteria for a quick lunch before heading to the gym to prepare for our first game. Our host, Linda Huang Yi, was able to arrange our game versus Shanghai Jiao Tong University. SJTU is most known for being Yao Ming’s alma mater and having very competitive and respected basketball programs.

Prior to the game, while the team gathered in a nearby multi-purpose room, I was introduced to SJTU’s head coach. Linda helped translate while we discussed the rules and the pregame program. I was also able to meet the rest of their coaching staff and team while the Muskies were getting ready for the game.

Immediately following our meeting, our team joined SJTU’s team at mid-court. We exchanged gifts and took a group picture before the start of the game. A few handshakes were exchanged and good luck wishes; then it was time for tip-off. Our team was prepared to play a much different style of game then what we encounter in the States, and it took some getting used to. However, I was impressed overall with how well we adjusted to the FIBA rules and the way the referees called the game. SJTU plays very physical and we proved to have a new level of toughness during the game.

Many of the SFU students were able to attend the game while between classes and helped add another level of excitement to the atmosphere. It sounded like we were the new hometown favorites with the cheers from our new Muskie fans in the stands. They would get particularly excited when our undersized guards, like Sophomore Gaby Cappaert, attacked the paint or when any of our players shot a three-point field goal.

This entire experience was more than what I expected and I am so grateful for Linda putting in the time and energy to set up the game with SJTU. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these young ladies will be remembered for the rest of their lives.