Shiliuyun-Xinjiang Daily (Reporter Guo Qian) news: On the Third Session of the 13th Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the Xinjiang regional committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association submitted a proposal on promoting the development of youth football in Xinjiang.

Photo shows “Kashi Erziwawa” campus football team with a trophy. (Photo offered by the Xiamalebage Town Central Primary School in Kashi City)

Xinjiang boasts a robust grassroots foundation for football. In recent years, youth football in Xinjiang has experienced significant growth, establishing itself as a prominent aspect of the region's sports development. Currently, over 20 percent of primary and secondary schools in Xinjiang have been designated as national or autonomous region-level football-specialized schools, surpassing the national average. In addition to offering football courses, these schools consistently organize training sessions and host various levels of football competitions, fostering a vibrant football culture on campus. Xinjiang has also made remarkable strides in nurturing young football talents. Statistics indicate that nearly 350 football players from Xinjiang are active in professional leagues across the country, and the region's youth teams have achieved notable success in both domestic and international competitions.

"Youth in Xinjiang tell stories of Xinjiang through football. To cultivate this passion and ensure it takes root and flourishes, sustained support is essential." According to Dai Min, a member of the 13th Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the full-time vice chairman and secretary-general of the Xinjiang regional committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association, governments at all levels and all sectors of society should continue to increase investment to address the current imbalances in the development of youth football in different localities of Xinjiang, the separation of sports and education, and the shortage of grassroots football coaches, and to improve the conditions of football facilities, particularly in economically underdeveloped areas, where priority should be given to constructing football venues to provide a better training environment for young players.

The Xinjiang regional committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association also advocates for finding new ways to blend sports and education. One suggestion is flexible student registration, which would make it easier for students to juggle schoolwork and training. They also propose improving local football coaching and bringing in top international coaches to provide young athletes with structured, scientific training.

Furthermore, a comprehensive youth football event system should be established, promoting international exchanges and cooperation while strengthening football culture. Emphasizing the cultivation of football spirit and moral character among young players will lay a solid foundation for their holistic development.

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