IAIJ
Joined: 01 May 2011
Posts: 15
Location: Toronto, Canada - London, England
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 Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 3:43 pm Post subject: Courage Begins at Five: Bud Cup Qingdao Inspires Young… |
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Courage Begins at Five: Bud Cup Qingdao Inspires Young Table Tennis Players
By Xiaojun Yin (United Kingdom)
When a four-year-old girl nervously stepped onto the international standard table tennis court, her tiny hands clutching the paddle, she wasn’t just playing for a win or a loss. From May 31 to June 2, 2025, the 5th “Bud Cup” Qingdao International Youth Table Tennis Open was held successfully at the Tiangang International Exchange Center in Qingdao, China. The event brought together 29 teams from countries and regions including the USA, Australia, the Netherlands, Japan, and China (including Hong Kong and Taiwan), with 408 young athletes competing across age groups from kindergarten to high school.
Since its inception in 2019, the Bud Cup has held five consecutive editions, attracting over 50 teams and 2,500 participants from 19 countries and regions. As one of the few international children’s table tennis tournaments worldwide, it upholds the mission of “experience first, growth foremost,” aiming to provide a professional yet warm platform for young players globally.
This year’s highlight was the 2020-born group, featuring children under five years old. Some were so nervous they had tears streaming down their cheeks; others swung their paddles so hard their rackets flew across the court. Yet, they all persevered until the end, cheering themselves on with adorable shouts that moved the audience and drew rounds of encouraging applause. These moments vividly illustrated the courage and perseverance that sports can inspire.
The award ceremony at the closing ceremony was equally heartwarming: in addition to performance-based prizes, the “Fighting Spirit Award” celebrated children who showed resilience; the “Junior Team Award” recognized outstanding teamwork; and the “Special Talent Award” encouraged those who demonstrated exceptional interest or natural ability, ensuring every child felt acknowledged and proud.
Organizers emphasized that what children gain from this competition goes far beyond trophies—they develop confidence, resilience, and precious memories. The hope is that this small “seed” of table tennis will take root and grow in their hearts, accompanying them on a path of healthy, joyful growth. |
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