There may be numerous reasons behind individuals transitioning from an elite athlete to a coach.
For some, it is about remaining in a high-performance environment while others might see it as an opportunity to give back to the sport that changed their lives.
Xu Yaping, Executive Director of Zhejiang University's China Water Sports Development Center, says her decision to be a physical education teacher was purely based on personal experiences.
Growing up in a closed and poor environment, Yaping was self-conscious and afraid of interacting with others, and it was kayaking that helped her become confident.
“I was worried about them seeing my shortcomings and flaws,” she said.
“I can say that sports have shaped and transformed me.
“This experience made me realise the unique power of sports to promote physical and mental well-being and encourage a positive and uplifting lifestyle.”
Set to play a key role in the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that ICF signed with the Chinese Canoe Association (CCA) and Zhejiang University (ZJU) last October, the 41-year-old spoke about why education plays a crucial role in sport.
Despite not being part of a provincial team in competitive kayaking until high school, Yaping said she was able to demonstrate stronger psychological resilience, teamwork skills, and adaptability in comparison to those who were coached professionally from a young age.
“I firmly believe that sports education is not just about skill transfer,” she said.
“It is a crucial component in promoting holistic personal development.”
Yaping's credentials in the education sector speak for themselves and show why she is the perfect match to take this MoU forward on behalf of ZJU.
A winner of the "Outstanding Sports Worker in Higher Engineering Institutions" under the Ministry of Education, among other awards, she was the first teacher in China to offer courses on comprehensive water sports including Canoe Polo, Stand Up Paddling, and Dragon Boat among others and open water safety and rescue in universities.
The Beijing 2008 Olympian, who has multiple international medals, added that her study abroad experience made her realise that the emphasis on sports among youngsters in China was insufficient.
“I aspire to contribute to the development of sports education in China through my efforts, helping more young people recognise its importance,” she said.
“Zhejiang University places a high priority on developing high-quality sports education, with rich resources and a strong platform to promote the continuous development of water sports on campus.
“The partnership with ICF will not only promote academic exchange and innovation but also effectively advance the scientific development of our sport.”
Thanking ICF for its support of water sports development and sports education at ZJU, Yaping believes that the extensive experiences of both organisations in their respective fields will ensure the success of the MoU.
“As the global governing body for canoeing and kayaking, the ICF has extensive experience in multiple areas.
“Combined with our expertise in sports research and education, the tie-up will strengthen the position of paddle sports at the university level.
“We look forward to further showcasing the unique charm of canoeing with the professional guidance of the ICF, continuously enhancing the influence of paddle sports among youth in China and around the world.”
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