User:Wu Ziyi

我是湖南师范大学23级英语笔译吴子毅，来自广东省韶关市。我热爱翻译，在老师和同学的帮助下完成了多次翻译实践，并尝试进行多模态翻译研究、语料库视角下翻译实践研究及知识翻译学翻译知识传播研究。同时，我也热爱中国传统文化，希望在老师的教导下对中华传统文化有更深的认识，更好地传播家乡的岭南文化。

Nov. 1, 2024

I talked about buildings with talkAI. It introduced towers in Shanghai and Dubai. But when I wanted to know about the buildings in Taiwan, it refused to communicate with me, due to the political issue.

Nov. 2, 2024

Today, I utilized the TALKAI platform to practice my conversational English, focusing on everyday scenarios such as ordering food at a restaurant and asking for directions. I engaged in role-playing exercises that simulated real-life interactions. Using TALKAI has significantly boosted my speaking skills and confidence in everyday conversations. I look forward to continuing this practice to further improve my fluency and understanding of the English language. I'm SORRY I forgot to write the text on the Nov.2. This text is written on Nov. 3.

Nov. 3, 2024

Today, I focused on expanding my English vocabulary using the TALKAI platform. My theme for the session was “Travel and Culture.” I started by exploring various topics related to travel destinations, cultural practices, and local cuisines. TALKAI provided examples in context, which helped me understand how to use them in sentences. I made a list of new words, such as “itinerary,” “landmark,” and “cuisine,” and practiced incorporating them into my sentences.

Nov. 4, 2024

Today, I focused my session on TALKAI around the theme of current events.I began by selecting a few articles on current events, such as climate change initiatives and technological advancements. The platform prompted me with questions, encouraging me to elaborate on my opinions and provide supporting details.Throughout the conversation, I practiced using phrases like “I believe,” “It’s important to consider,” and “In my opinion,” which helped me articulate my thoughts more clearly.

Nov. 5, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to focus on improving my ability to talk about hobbies and personal interests in English. I wanted to feel more comfortable discussing what I enjoy doing in my free time, as it’s a common topic in everyday conversations.I talk about my love for reading and travelling. I was encouraged to use more descriptive language, such as “breathtaking,” “adventurous,” and “enlightening,” to make my responses more engaging.

Nov.6, 2024

Today, I focused on using TALKAI to practice answering common job interview questions in English. My goal was to improve my ability to respond confidently and professionally during interviews. I started by going through a list of typical interview questions, such as “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” and “Why do you want to work here?” TALKAI simulated an interview environment, where I was asked these questions and prompted to answer as I would in a real interview.

Nov. 7, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice socializing and starting friendly conversations in English. My goal was to become more comfortable introducing myself, sharing interests, and asking questions to get to know someone better. TALKAI guided me through introducing myself, talking about my hobbies, and asking questions like “What do you like to do in your free time?” and “Have you traveled anywhere interesting lately?” This gave me a chance to practice casual, friendly language and use open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing.

Nov. 8, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI for English conversations in travel situations. My goal was to become more confident communicating while traveling abroad, specifically in scenarios like asking for directions, checking into a hotel, and ordering food. I practiced checking into a hotel, where I learned how to ask about amenities, room service, and checkout times. I also practiced ordering food at a restaurant, focusing on pronunciation and polite phrases like “Could I please have…” and “Do you recommend any dishes?” TALKAI’s feedback helped me sound more polite and precise.

Nov. 9, 2024

Today, I focused on using TALKAI to improve my English skills in healthcare settings. My goal was to feel more comfortable discussing health concerns, understanding medical advice, and asking the right questions if I ever need to visit a clinic abroad. TALKAI guided me in using clear and precise language to describe symptoms, as well as key phrases like “It started a few days ago” and “It feels worse when I...”

Nov. 10, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice English for situations I might encounter at the airport and during a flight. My goal was to feel more confident asking for information, understanding announcements, and handling potential issues. I practiced phrases like “I’d like to check in for my flight” and “Could I have an aisle seat, please?” TALKAI helped me work on my pronunciation and provided additional useful phrases, such as “Is there a charge for checked baggage?” and “How long is the flight delay?”

Nov. 11, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI to improve my conversational skills around the theme of classic literature. I chose Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen as the focus of my conversation, as it’s one of my favorite classic novels. TALKAI guided me in describing the plot and main characters, helping me use descriptive language like “witty,” “satirical,” and “insightful.”

Nov. 12, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice English for dining out at a new restaurant. I practiced asking questions about the menu, like “What do you recommend?” and “Could you tell me more about this dish?” TALKAI taught me how to politely ask about ingredients by saying, “Does this dish contain any nuts?” or “Is this dish spicy?” I also practiced ordering food, learning useful phrases like “I’ll have the…” and “Could I get this without…?” TALKAI offered suggestions on how to respond if I needed more time to decide or wanted to ask for a drink recommendation.

Nov. 13, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI to improve my English skills when talking about cooking. I practiced phrases like “First, you’ll need…” and “Be sure to stir continuously so it doesn’t stick.” TALKAI also provided useful cooking vocabulary, such as sauté, simmer and season.

Nov. 14, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI to describe my experience trying out a new restaurant. I began by describing the type of restaurant I visited, mentioning details like the cuisine, decor, and location. TALKAI guided me to use descriptive language, such as “cozy,” “modern,” and “authentic,” to make my explanation more vivid. I also practiced introducing the restaurant by saying, “I recently tried a new place called…” and “They specialize in…”.

Nov. 15, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about travel in English. TALKAI helped me practice key phrases like “I recently visited…” and “It’s known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture.” I focused on providing details about the place, using adjectives such as “breathtaking,” “peaceful,” and “vibrant” to convey the atmosphere.

Nov. 16, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my favorite comedies in English. I introduced one of my favorite comedy shows, Friends. TALKAI guided me through describing the plot, the main characters, and the humor style. I practiced phrases like “It’s about a group of friends navigating life in New York City” and “The humor comes from their quirky personalities and hilarious situations.” TALKAI suggested using descriptive words like “witty,” “relatable,” and “heartwarming” to make my explanation more vivid.

Nov. 17, 2024

I did not talk with TALKAI, today.

Nov. 18, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice discussing what I did over the weekend in English. I talked about trying out a new café in town. I practiced phrases like “I discovered a cozy little café” and “Their desserts were absolutely delicious.” TALKAI guided me to use sensory language, such as “The coffee had a rich, bold flavor” and “The atmosphere was warm and inviting.”

Nov. 19, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my favorite music in English. I started by introducing my favorite artist, Ed Sheeran. TALKAI guided me in describing his music style, using phrases like “He’s known for his acoustic sound and heartfelt lyrics” and “His songs often tell personal and emotional stories.” I practiced expressing why I like his music with sentences such as “His lyrics are relatable, and his melodies are unforgettable.”

Nov. 20, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my favorite modes of transportation in English. I started by talking about my favorite mode of transportation: the train. TALKAI helped me practice phrases like “I love taking the train because it’s both comfortable and efficient” and “It’s a great way to enjoy the scenery during long trips.” I described how taking the train makes me feel relaxed and how I can watch movies or listen to music without worrying about traffic.

Nov. 21, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about audiobooks in English. I started by explaining what I like about audiobooks, using phrases like “I enjoy audiobooks because they’re convenient and allow me to multitask” and “Listening to an audiobook feels like having a story read to you, which is relaxing.” TALKAI suggested using adjectives like “immersive,” “engaging,” and “practical” to make my explanation more vivid.

Nov. 22, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice discussing bicycles in English. I started by explaining why I enjoy cycling. TALKAI helped me use phrases like “I love cycling because it’s a great way to stay active and explore the outdoors” and “It’s eco-friendly and helps reduce traffic congestion.” I practiced using descriptive language, such as “refreshing,” “energizing,” and “liberating,” to convey my enthusiasm.

Nov. 23, 2024

I didn't talk with TALKAI today.

Nov. 24, 2024

I didn't talk with TALKAI today.

Nov. 25, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI to talk about my favorite insect in English. I chose butterflies as my favorite insect. TALKAI guided me through describing their beauty and grace with phrases like “Butterflies are known for their colorful wings and delicate flight” and “Each species has unique patterns and vibrant colors.” I practiced using descriptive words such as “elegant,” “mesmerizing,” and “diverse” to make my explanation vivid.

Nov. 26, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about table tennis in English. I started by introducing table tennis as my favorite sport. TALKAI guided me to use phrases like “Table tennis is a fast-paced and exciting sport” and “It’s also known as ping pong.” I practiced describing the game, using words such as “competitive,” “strategic,” and “dynamic”. Then, I explained why I enjoy playing table tennis. I used phrases like “It helps me improve my reflexes and hand-eye coordination” and “Playing with friends is always fun and challenging.” TALKAI helped me articulate the physical and mental benefits of the game, like “It keeps me active and sharp.”

Nov. 27, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI to talk about my favorite season in English. I chose spring as my favorite season. TALKAI helped me practice phrases like “Spring is a time of renewal and growth” and “I love how the weather becomes warmer, and flowers start to bloom.” I used descriptive words like “vibrant,” “refreshing,” and “breezy” to capture the beauty of spring.

Nov. 28, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my favorite basketball player in English. I chose Stephen Curry as my favorite basketball player. TALKAI guided me to introduce him with phrases like “He’s one of the greatest shooters in NBA history” and “He plays for the Golden State Warriors.” I practiced using words like “dynamic,” “versatile,” and “inspirational” to describe his playing style.

Nov. 29, 2024

I didn't talk with TalkAI.

Nov. 30, 2024

I didn't talk with TalkAI.

Dec. 1, 2024

I didn't talk with TalkAI.

Dec. 2, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about fishing in English. I started by introducing fishing as one of my favorite outdoor activities. TALKAI helped me use phrases like “Fishing is a relaxing and rewarding hobby” and “I love spending time near the water, enjoying the peace and quiet.” I practiced using adjectives like “calming,” “therapeutic,” and “exciting” to describe the experience.

Dec. 3, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice discussing my favorite classic literary work in English. My goal was to describe the book, explain why I admire it, and reflect on its themes and impact. I chose Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen as my favorite classic. TALKAI guided me to introduce the novel with phrases like “It’s a timeless story about love, class, and social expectations in 19th-century England” and “The protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, is a strong and intelligent woman who challenges societal norms.” I practiced using adjectives like “witty,” “insightful,” and “iconic” to describe the book’s qualities.

Dec. 4, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my favorite movie in English. My goal was to describe the film, explain why I enjoy it, and discuss its deeper meaning or impact on me. I chose The Shawshank Redemption as my favorite movie. TALKAI helped me introduce it with phrases like “It’s a powerful drama about hope, friendship, and resilience.”

Dec. 5, 2024

Today, I practiced using TALKAI to talk about writing as a hobby in English. My goal was to describe why I enjoy writing, what I like to write about, and how it impacts my life. I started by sharing my passion for writing. TALKAI helped me use phrases like “Writing allows me to express my thoughts and creativity” and “It’s a way for me to reflect on my experiences and emotions.” I practiced using words such as “therapeutic,” “fulfilling,” and “imaginative” to describe the benefits of writing.

Dec. 6, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about preparing for exams in English. My goal was to describe my study habits, share strategies, and discuss the emotions involved in the process. I started by explaining how I prepare for exams. TALKAI helped me use sentences like “I usually create a study schedule to organize my time” and “Reviewing notes and practicing past papers are my main strategies.”

Dec. 7, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my language learning journey in English. My goal was to describe why I learn languages, my methods, and the challenges I face. I began by sharing why I enjoy learning languages. TALKAI helped me use phrases like “Learning a new language opens doors to understanding different cultures” and “It helps me connect with people from around the world.” I practiced using words such as “enriching,” “rewarding,” and “empowering” to describe the experience.

Dec. 8, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about my favorite social media platform in English. My goal was to describe its features, why I like it, and how I use it in my daily life. I chose Weibo as my favorite social media platform. TALKAI guided me to describe it with sentences like “Weibo is a platform where users share photos and videos” and “It’s known for its visually appealing interface and creative tools.” I practiced using adjectives such as “innovative,” “interactive,” and “engaging” to highlight its strengths.

Dec. 9, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about fitness in English. My goal was to describe my fitness routine, share my goals, and discuss how exercise benefits my life. I started by describing my fitness routine. TALKAI helped me use sentences like “I usually work out three times a week, focusing on strength training and cardio” and “I enjoy running in the mornings and practicing yoga for relaxation.” I practiced using words like “energizing,” “challenging,” and “rewarding” to describe my workouts.

Dec. 10, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice discussing large language models (LLMs) in English. My goal was to explain what they are, their potential uses, and my personal opinion about their role in technology and society. I began by defining large language models. TALKAI helped me articulate, “LLMs are advanced AI systems trained on vast amounts of text data to generate human-like responses” and “They use natural language processing to understand and create text-based content.” I practiced using terms like “machine learning,” “neural networks,” and “contextual understanding” to describe how LLMs function.

Dec. 11, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) in English. My goal was to describe why I enjoy the game, discuss my favorite features, and share memorable moments from playing it. I began by introducing PES. TALKAI helped me use sentences like “Pro Evolution Soccer is a popular football simulation game known for its realistic gameplay” and “It’s developed by Konami and has a dedicated fanbase around the world.” I practiced describing the game’s appeal using phrases such as “immersive experience,” “strategic gameplay,” and “stunning graphics.”

Dec. 12, 2024

Today, I talked about the family trip to Changsha with TALKAI.

Dec. 13, 2024

Today, I talked about my new hobby, playing ping pong, with TALKAI.

Dec. 14, 2024

Today, I talked about a museum tour with TALKAI.

Dec. 15, 2024

Today, I talked about my plan to learn ping pong with TALKAI.

Dec. 16, 2024

Today, I talked about my dream job, a chef, with TALKAI.

Dec. 17, 2024

Today, I talked about my vacation plan with TALKAI.

Dec. 18, 2024

Today, I talked about fishing with TALKAI.

Dec. 19, 2024

Today, I used TALKAI to practice talking about cold weather in English. My goal was to describe my feelings about winter, share how I cope with the cold, and discuss activities I enjoy during chilly seasons. I started by describing cold weather in Changsha. TALKAI helped me use sentences like “Winters here are often freezing, with temperatures dropping below zero” and “The mornings are frosty, and sometimes there’s snow covering the ground.” I practiced using adjectives such as “biting,” “crisp,” and “chilly” to vividly describe the season.

Final Exam Paper

“Cun Chao”: China’s Village Football League

Wu Ziyi (Andrew)

Abstract

Rongjiang County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province is renowned for its various natural landscapes and diverse folk cultures. Since 2023, the remote county has gained nationwide and even worldwide attention thanks to a special football event – the Rongjiang “Cun Chao” (Village Super League). The event demonstrates the attraction of the integration between football and folk cultures in Guizhou and serves as an important platform for local economic development and cultural exchanges with other regions.

Keywords: Guizhou; “Cun Chao”; cultures

The Origins and Background of Rongjiang “Cun Chao”

“Cun Chao”, also known as “Village FA”, is a rural football league in Rongjiang, Guizhou that has taken the internet by storm. The first “Cun Chao”, Rongjiang (Sanbao Dong Village) Harmony Rural Football Super League, kicked off on May 13, 2023, at the Sports Center in the Chengbei New District (Rongjiang County Government Office, 2023). By now, the Rongjiang “Cun Chao” has been held twice. With the increasing number of participating teams, the league has become larger, and its influence has extended beyond Guizhou Province and even to the world.

Although “Cun Chao” became an internet sensation in 2023, the Rongjiang people’s love of football can be traced back to the 1940s (Rongjiang County Local Chronicles Compilation Committee, 1999). Since the 1980s, Rongjiang County has hosted multiple football games, such as the “Guzhou Cup”, the “Gurong Cup”, and the “Guangming Cup”, laying a foundation for the development of local football. According to a report by Qiandongnan Prefecture Media Convergence Center (2023), Rongjiang County, though with a population of less than 400,000, boasts 50,000 football players, including 20 national first-class athletes and 147 national second-class athletes; moreover, the county has 41 football-specialized schools and 35 community amateur football teams.

The Mode of “Cun Chao”

The Rongjiang “Cun Chao” competition currently comprises two main segments: the “Cun Chao” League and themed “Cun Chao” matches, such as the “Discover the Beauty of China: Rendezvous at Guizhou Cun Chao” International Friendship Matches. The former is held annually with village representative teams from Rongjiang County, and the latter is held from time to time and imposes no geographic restrictions on participating teams.

Both the League and themed matches share two distinctive features: organized by villagers and participated by villagers. The matches are hosted by the Rongjiang “Cun Chao” Organizing Committee composed of local villagers and county government staff. Teams in the “Cun Chao” League represent villages in Rongjiang, such as the “Dangxiang Village Football Team”. The participant teams of themed matches mainly are village-level teams; teams from the rest of China and the world are welcome in the matches.

Regarding player registration rules, the “Cun Chao” Organizing Committee has drawn from the experiences of major domestic and international football games. From 2023 to 2024, the Committee gradually relaxed qualification requirements for players to enhance competitiveness and entertainment value. Similar to the Chinese Super League (CSL), “Cun Chao” now allows each team to register up to 30 players, including 5 Guizhou-born players from outside Rongjiang and permits a maximum of 3 non-Rongjiang players on the field simultaneously. The committee has also adopted transfer policies inspired by Europe’s top five leagues (English Premier League, Serie A, La Liga, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1). Like the winter transfer window in these leagues, “Cun Chao” permits finalist teams to recruit players from non-advancing teams.

In terms of match regulations, “Cun Chao” adheres to the rules set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). A team can field a maximum of 11 players and a minimum of 7; a match is divided into two halves of 45 minutes each. To accommodate the high level of enthusiasm among Rongjiang villagers, the 2024 Second “Cun Chao” League saw 62 teams and over 1,800 players registering to participate (Guizhou Provincial Government, 2024). The Organizing Committee structured the league into two stages: a preliminary round and finals. In the preliminary, teams were grouped in sets of 10. The top two teams from each group would advance to the finals, resulting in 20 finalists.

Features of “Cun Chao”

The three defining characteristics of “Cun Chao” are as follows:

First, a massive spectator base. According to Wang Zhiqiu and Su Bin (2023), the 2023 Rongjiang “Cun Chao” drew an average of over 50,000 spectators per match on-site (see Pic.1) and more than 50 million online viewers. In contrast, matches in an 11th-tier league of English football – a county-level league – saw an average attendance of fewer than 50 spectators per match (see Pic.2). For example, on November 16, 2019, a game between Sandridge Rovers and Royston Town attracted around 35 spectators, according to a report by Stadium Map (2023). The heated atmosphere at “Cun Chao” matches, where fans wave flags and sing folk songs, greatly boosts players’ morale and inspires them to perform at their best. Additionally, the overwhelming number of online viewers has drawn the attention of football scouts. Therefore “Cun Chao” creates opportunities for talented players to show their skills to scouts and pursue their dreams of being professional players.

Pic.1

Pic.2

Second, diverse halftime activities of folk cultures. Jimmy (2022) points out that international football events such as the FIFA World Cup do not allow halftime performances due to the continuousness of the game and audience preference for shorter breaks. Different from those games, “Cun Chao” incorporates halftime activities that highlight local folk cultures. During halftime, villagers rush into the football field and present performances such as Dong pipa songs, Shui lusheng and bronze drum dances, Yao pestle dances, and Miao lusheng dances (see Pic.3). In addition, many villagers in traditional ethnic attire, distribute local delicacies including glutinous rice, pickled fish, and niubie hotpot (a regional hotpot cooked with cattle’s digestive juices) to the audience (see Pic.4). The lively atmosphere of the halftime activities with strong cultural characteristics captivates both spectators and tourists. Some even join with villagers and mimic the villagers’ dance moves to the rhythm of folk songs. Rongjiang County harnesses the “Cun Chao” to demonstrate its vibrant folk culture to the world, making the halftime activities a signature feature of “Cun Chao”.

Pic.3

Pic.4

Third, village-style awards. Unlike major football events like the World Cup, where winners receive trophies and significant cash prizes, the awards for “Cun Chao” are special local products. Prince-Wright (2022) reported that the 2022 FIFA World Cup champions, Argentina, were awarded 42 million dollars and the iconic FIFA World Cup trophy. In contrast, the prizes for “Cun Chao” reflect the rural characteristics of Rongjiang County. According to China News (2024), the champion was prized a yellow calf, the runner-up was awarded two piglets, the third-place got two goats, and the fourth-place team received 30 chickens (see Pic.5). These rural prizes not only celebrate the winning teams but also promote Rongjiang County’s distinctive agricultural products with the help of media coverage. This innovative approach helps expand the market reach of Rongjiang’s products beyond Guizhou, contributing to the local economy.

Pic.5

The Economic Benefits of “Cun Chao”

The phenomenal popularity of “Cun Chao” has significantly contributed to local poverty alleviation and prosperity. In the past, Rongjiang County was a poverty-stricken area in the mountains. However, witnessing the surge of enthusiasm for “Cun Chao”, local residents’ mindsets have undergone profound changes – “Cun Chao” is not only a source of entertainment but also a fountain of economic benefits. Leveraging the brand influence of “Cun Chao”, Rongjiang County has deeply explored the market value and business potential of the event. By focusing on six core elements – food, accommodation, transportation, travelling, shopping, and entertainment – the county has expanded the local industrial chain and promoted the integrated development of industries including agricultural product sales, lodging, catering, transportation, and entertainment.

The rise of “Cun Chao” has injected new vitality into Rongjiang County’s economic development, forming a unique “Cun Chao+” development model. From tourism to agriculture and cultural and creative industries, the brand effect of “Cun Chao” can be seen across sectors. Firstly, the influx of tourists attracted by the event has led to explosive growth in the local tourism industry. Visitors not only boosted hotel occupancy rates but also spurred the development of the local dining sector. Small food stalls and rural restaurants have gradually upgraded into food streets, drawing even more consumers. Secondly, “Cun Chao” has built a deep connection with Rongjiang’s special agricultural products. Through on-site agricultural product exhibitions at the matches and promotions on live-streaming platforms, the county has established a good reputation for its agricultural product brands. High-quality local specialities, such as local mushrooms, Luohanguo (momordica grosvenori) and white tea from Rongjiang are now sold nationwide and even internationally (see Pic.6). Thirdly, “Cun Chao” has driven the growth of cultural and creative industries. The county integrates the local intangible cultural heritage of tie-dye art into products related to the games such as jerseys, toys, and souvenirs (see Pic.7). Through this method, the county has developed a range of best-selling products, enriching its industrial chain. The government has also encouraged small- and medium-sized enterprises and young entrepreneurs to participate in industries relevant to “Cun Chao”, attracting talent back to the region and laying a foundation for high-quality economic development in the future.

Pic.6

Pic.7

According to Yao Yuan and Wang Wenyang (2024), since May 13, 2023, Rongjiang County has received a total of 2.5 million tourists, generating a comprehensive tourism income of 2.83 billion yuan. As a result, the “Cun Chao+” development model has been widely recognized and was inscribed into the award list of the Fifth Global Solicitation on Best Poverty Reduction Practices Campaign.

The Cultural Exchange Channels of “Cun Chao”

Rongjiang’s “Cun Chao” emphasizes both “going out” and “bringing in”. By themed matches and collaborations with top-tier football competitions, it promotes the exchanges of local culture with other domestic and international cultures.

The “Cun Chao” League is a key platform for demonstrating the rich folk culture of the Qiandongnan region (southeast of Guizhou). Themed “Cun Chao” matches not only present local culture but also serve as an important window into foreign cultures. The themed matches, such as the “Discover the Beauty of China: Rendezvous at Guizhou Cun Chao” International Friendship Matches, the “Belt and Road” International Friendly Matches and “Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area” Friendly Matches, are open to teams from all regions. The matches are generally organized as teams in Guizhou against teams from other provinces or domestic teams against foreign teams. For example, the match between the Guizhou “Cun Chao” Luohanguo Football Team and the Latin American/Caribbean Diplomatic Corps Team in China (see Pic.8 and Pic.9). Thanks to halftime folk performances and food gustation events before the match, foreign diplomats experienced the unique folk cultures and learnt the local efforts of rural revitalization. “Sergio Cabrera, the Ambassador of Colombia to China, commented, ‘We have learned a lot from Guizhou. The local villagers, through their efforts and with the help of the government, have revitalized the ancient villages’” (Guizhou People’s Government, 2024). During the match, Guizhou’s local players not only knew the intricate footwork of Latin American football but also experienced the passionate and competitive football culture of foreign players with strong patriotism. The players noted that “Cun Chao” provided them with opportunities to interact with international players and get into foreign cultures.

Pic.8 Pic.9

In addition, cooperation with top-tier football competitions is another channel to engage in cultural exchanges with the outside world. With support from provincial and local governments, “Cun Chao” signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the English Premier League (EPL) at the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), marking the beginning of its internationalization. The EPL will collaborate with “Cun Chao” on the game organization to support the ongoing development of Rongjiang’s “Cun Chao” and provide training courses to promote the development of the local football players and coaches. Furthermore, the two sides will consider jointly organizing friendly matches between the “Cun Chao” teams and English community football teams. On December 12, 2023, the “Learn and Transfer to the Premier League” grassroots football coach training program was officially launched in Rongjiang, Guizhou. 44 local coaches from “Cun Chao” participated in a four-day training program, in which they gained in-depth insights into the training culture, training models, and selection criteria of British football clubs.

Terms and Expressions:

“Cun Chao” or Village Super League: 村超

“Cun Chao+” development model: “村超+”发展模式

“Cun Chao” League: “村超”联赛

themed “Cun Chao” matches: “村超”主题赛事

Rongjiang, Guizhou: 贵州榕江

Qiandongnan region (southeast of Guizhou): 黔东南

the Miao people: 苗族

the Dong people: 侗族

Dong pipa songs: 侗族琵琶歌

Shui lusheng and bronze drum dances: 水族芦笙铜鼓舞

Yao pestle dances: 瑶族舂杵舞

Miao lusheng dances: 苗族芦笙舞

glutinous rice: 糯米饭

pickled fish: 腌鱼

niubie hotpot: 牛瘪火锅

Questions:

1. Which county hosts the “Cun Chao” (Village Super League)?

2. Where do the teams of the “Cun Chao” League come from?

3. What are the three characteristics of “Cun Chao”?

4. How can the “Cun Chao+” economic model drive economic development?

5. What are the two channels of “Cun Chao” to engage in cultural exchange with the outside world?

Answers:

1. Rongjiang, Guizhou.

2. They come from the villages of Rongjiang, Guizhou.

3. The Characteristics are a massive spectator base, halftime activities with folk cultures and special rural awards.

4. It promotes economic development by attracting numerous tourists, forging a deep connection with Rongjiang’s special agricultural products and developing related cultural and creative industries.

5. They are themed “Cun Chao” matches and cooperation with top-tier football competitions.

Reference:

[1] Stadium Map. The Football Pyramid [EB/OL]. (2023-11-25) [2024-12-26]. https://www.stadium-maps.com/facts/the-football-pyramid.html.

[2] Jummy. Does The FIFA World Cup Have a Halftime Show? [EB/OL]. (2022-9-18) [2024-12-26]. https://footballeffect.com/does-the-fifa-world-cup-have-a-halftime-show/#comments.

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AI Statement:

I hereby guarantee that I have not used the help of AI to write my final paper in this course.