"Compared with other teams, we have neither any national footballers nor outstanding physique and skills. But we went all out,” said excitedly Xue Xiangkai, president of Pingtan Football Association.

Representing Fujian province, Pingtan's Beach Football Team had scored overnight fame after securing fourth place in the 14th China's National Games at the end of September, marking a breakthrough for the island city.

Jubilant players of Pingtan Beach Football Team pictured after winning the first match

None of the members are professional. They come from all walks of life. The oldest was born in 1987, and the youngest was born in 1996.

It took only three months for these amateur players to get together and compete in the games.

"Although the training time is scarce, the national arena has proved our strength. This is a good start. Pingtan has the conditions to build a high-level beach football team," Xue Xiangkai told reporters.

Established in 2013, Pingtan Football Association has enticed a large number of football enthusiasts and hosted a variety of football matches.

Last March, three kindergartens of Pingtan and one primary school were designated as national football experimental units in China.

Pingtan’s superior beaches are a boon to the development of beach football. “Pingtan is surrounded by the sea. In addition, Pingtan enjoys a long coastline, sunny beaches, fresh air and a conducive environment for the sport,” said Lin Yongqing, an official of the Tourism, Culture and Sports Bureau of Pingtan.

“Beach volleyball is doing well in Pingtan. Beach volleyball and beach football are both beach sport. So many venues can be shared.” Lin noted that a professional training ground covering an area of 2,200 square meters will be built by the end of this year.

Pingtan is building itself into an international tourist destination. Sports like beach football can be a booster in the endeavor.

Highlight of Pingtan Beach Football Team in the 14th China’s National Games

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