Professional athletes visit students to explore a new "two-way collaboration" model for integrating sports and education.

The recent closing ceremony for the "2024 Retired Athletes School-Based Training Program" was held at the No. 4 Middle School in Chengdu Tianfu New Area, Sichuan Province. Nearly 30 retired athletes from 17 provinces, regions, and municipalities across China completed a three-month school-based training program in Chengdu Tianfu New Area, leaving with valuable experiences and insights.

Leaders from the Talent Division of the Personnel Department at the General Administration of Sport of China, the Second Department for Athlete Support at the Sports Fund Center of the General Administration of Sport, the Competitive Sports Division of the Sichuan Provincial Sports Bureau, and the Community Governance and Social Affairs Bureau of Chengdu Tianfu New Area, along with representatives from athlete support departments across relevant provinces, regions, and municipalities, as well as deputy principals, mentors, and retired athletes from various training institutions, attended the closing ceremony.

Before the event began, retired athletes—dressed in uniform attire—entered by signing in with envelopes. They exchanged personalized postcards filled with heartfelt messages and reflections, connecting deeply with their mentors and the children they had trained during the program. At the entrance, the athletes paused briefly at a display showcasing memories from their three-month training period, sharing insights and lessons learned along the way. Some of the standout athlete representatives even delivered live teaching demonstrations, seamlessly transitioning from elite competitors on the field to dedicated "sports educators." Through their hands-on efforts over the past three months, they beautifully embodied the spirit of "retirement doesn’t dim one’s legacy; transformation highlights true responsibility," inspiring all who witnessed their journey.

In recent years, to implement the various athlete support policies issued by the Party Central Committee and the State Council—and to effectively prepare athletes for their transition into new career paths—China’s General Administration of Sport has established the Retired Athlete Employment and Entrepreneurship Support Fund under the China National Sports Foundation. This fund is jointly managed by the Sports Fund Management Center of the General Administration of Sport and the China National Sports Foundation, working closely with sports authorities, project centers, and associations across all provinces, regions, and municipalities nationwide. Together, they organize initiatives such as transition training programs, internship opportunities, hands-on practice sessions, and entrepreneurial support grants tailored specifically for retired athletes. This particular in-school internship program is an innovative initiative spearheaded by the Sports Fund Management Center of the General Administration of Sport and the China National Sports Foundation, under the guidance of the Personnel Department of the General Administration of Sport, and hosted in collaboration with the Community Governance and Social Affairs Bureau of Chengdu Tianfu New Area. The program leverages the Tianfu New Area Teacher Sharing Center to connect 11 schools across five major education groups in the area, providing athletes with valuable internship positions. It also pairs each athlete individually with a school mentor, offering them comprehensive, "one-on-one" opportunities to gain practical experience and build the skills needed for future careers in sports education.

During the training period, the organizers actively developed a scientifically sound and well-structured training syllabus, crafting a comprehensive and enriching training plan. The curriculum covered specialized teaching skills, micro-lesson creation and application, skill demonstrations, and foundational practice sessions. In addition to pairing each participant with a dedicated "one-on-one" mentor for personalized guidance, the organizers also arranged regular on-site supervisions by educational researchers, ensuring that athletes could fully immerse themselves in practical physical education activities. Beyond the training sessions, the organizers proactively connected participating athletes with employers who had relevant hiring needs, sharing their resumes to facilitate meaningful two-way communication and mutual selection. By the end of the program, three athletes had already secured employment offers from prospective employers.

"This retired-athlete-to-teaching internship program represents an important practical initiative aligned with the concept of shared education, jointly exploring new pathways for the integrated development of sports and education—and a fresh "five-pronged" approach to holistic student development. From midsummer through early winter, the retired athletes immersed themselves in schools, learning cutting-edge educational philosophies and methods, while actively engaging in classroom management as part of their hands-on teaching experience. Through this process, they’ve gained invaluable insights into transitioning to new roles, while the schools have benefited from expert guidance on athletic skills, ultimately achieving a 'win-win' outcome that strengthens the integration of sports and education." Said a representative from the Sichuan Tianfu New Area Teacher Sharing Center.

After three months of intensive training, a group of outstanding mentors, trainees, and participating organizations emerged. During the closing ceremony, exemplary trainees, top-notch mentors, and the best organizing unit were recognized and awarded, while all participants received their completion certificates. As the ceremony drew to a close, the athletes jointly performed "Run," their powerful voices instantly bringing back cherished memories of the past three months—moments filled with teamwork, shared growth, and the joy of working side by side on campus. These emotions not only rekindled their fondest recollections but also fueled their unwavering confidence and boundless aspirations for the future, marking the successful conclusion of the "2024 Retired Athletes’ Campus Training Program."

A relevant official from the General Administration of Sport's Fund Center stated that in the future, the National Sports Administration's Sports Fund Management Center will continue to collaborate with the All-China Sports Foundation, fully leveraging the role of the National Sports Administration's Fund for Supporting Retired Athletes' Employment and Entrepreneurship. This initiative will provide athletes with multifaceted support, helping them capitalize on their professional strengths and better contribute to the nation's goal of building a sports powerhouse—ultimately enabling them to make fresh contributions on new pathways.

From midsummer to early winter, nearly 30 retired athletes from across the country leveraged the platform provided by the Sichuan Tianfu New Area Teacher Sharing Center to gain hands-on training at multiple primary and secondary schools in the Tianfu New Area, taking on roles as specialized sports coaches or physical education teachers. Transitioning from the competitive arena of professional sports to the classroom of physical education, eight retired athletes recently shared their reflections and personal growth with reporters after completing the three-month training program.

Yuan Xin: Career transition has made me feel more responsible.

Yuan Xin is a national-level modern pentathlon athlete from Henan province. During the school-based training program, Yuan Xin has been delighted to see students’ eager thirst for sports knowledge and skills. She believes this is a "mutual journey"—the program brings champion coaches directly to the students, while the kids warmly embrace and eagerly anticipate having retired athletes as their physical education teachers. "The students are filled with admiration and curiosity about our performances on the field, and this interest naturally translates into their enthusiasm for PE class," Yuan Xin says. "I hope to inspire my students by sharing the perseverance and determination I’ve learned throughout my own athletic career—qualities that help me keep pushing forward despite life’s challenges."

Before independently taking on teaching responsibilities, Yuan Xin shared her experiences from domestic and international competitions with students in the classroom. Through demonstrations of her professional skills—breaking down techniques and passing them on—she vividly conveyed the spirit of perseverance and resilience that lies at the heart of modern pentathlon. She emphasized that these hands-on training experiences would plant seeds of positivity, a passion for sports, and a fearless attitude toward challenges within her students. "I feel it’s my duty to showcase the unique appeal of modern pentathlon to my students, carry forward the values of sportsmanship, and inspire more children to discover and fall in love with this exciting discipline," she said.

Thanks to the platform established through the General Administration of Sport of China’s program for retired athletes to gain practical training in schools, Yuan Xin also enjoyed an unexpected bonus during her internship—she connected with the Tianfu New Area Modern Pentathlon Association and eventually signed on as a coach. Reflecting on this opportunity, she expressed deep gratitude: "We share the same passion and vision for sports, and together we explored many critical issues related to the development of our sport. The association leaders recognized my potential and capabilities throughout my career, while also offering invaluable advice on my professional aspirations. I’m eager to stay in this role and continue making an impact."

Mao Yuepeng: I'm thrilled to be a teacher.

Mao Yuepeng is a national-level sports master in field hockey, hailing from Tianjin. After joining Tianfu No. 7 High School, his very first physical education class was held right in the classroom. During his initial meeting with the students, Mao shared his personal sports journey, giving them an inside look into the rigorous training routines of professional athletes and the immense dedication required to achieve success. His inspiring talk quickly earned him the students' respect and admiration. Just ten days after starting at the school, Mao celebrated his very first Teacher's Day, reminiscing about the heartfelt greeting cards filled with well-wishes from his students. "I feel incredibly fortunate to be their teacher—I’m truly happy," he said with a smile.

From athlete to physical education teacher, Mao Yuepeng says the biggest challenge lies in shifting from specializing in one area to covering multiple disciplines. "It’s about integrating professional knowledge into sports instruction, enriching classroom content with a scientific approach, and helping students master athletic skills more comprehensively while improving their overall physical fitness."

During the internship, thanks to the matchmaking efforts of the Tianfu New Area Teacher Sharing Center, Mao Yuepeng also gained access to Xiangshan Middle School in Tianfu New Area, where he took on the role of coach for the school’s field hockey team. "Every day after finishing work at No. 7 Middle School—from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., I’d take a taxi to Xiangshan Middle School to lead field hockey training. The school is short on coaches, but the kids are incredibly enthusiastic and have expressed their strong desire for me to guide them all the way to winning the provincial championship—and maybe even the national title!"

In the final stage of the training program, Mao Yuepeng found himself reluctantly saying goodbye to his students. It wasn’t just the students from Tianfu No. 7 Middle School who repeatedly asked him not to leave—players from the Xiangshan Middle School field hockey team even openly expressed their heartfelt plea: "We really need you here; do you think you’ll abandon us? Can you bear to part ways with us?" As he spoke about this moment, Mao Yuepeng, a veteran coach who’s spent years on the competitive field, couldn’t hold back his emotions. "At that instant, I just couldn’t keep it together anymore." Yet, it was precisely the children’s earnest requests and their unwavering passion for field hockey that strengthened his resolve to stay in Chengdu. He also expressed deep gratitude for the Shared Center’s innovative sports-education integration model, which gave him the unique opportunity to teach at another school. "More than anything," he added, "I want to lead these incredible kids all the way to the top—the very highest podium."

Gong Rui: Becoming a teacher is another fresh start.

"The biggest takeaway is staying in Chengdu." On the day of the graduation ceremony, Gong Rui, a retired athlete from the alpine skiing program, successfully signed a contract with her future employer. Moving forward, she’ll join Tianfu Middle School as both a physical education teacher and the coach of the school’s roller skating club. Gong Rui shared, "As a recent graduate, Tianfu Middle School Affiliated Primary School provides an excellent platform—a fantastic starting point for me. It’s been such a delightful surprise to land my first job here!"

Gong Rui, who aspires to a career in education, views her internship as an excellent learning opportunity. She candidly shares: "Being an athlete and a teacher are entirely different professions. Actually stepping into a school setting to experience and practice firsthand is far more immersive—and rewarding—than simply observing or watching from the sidelines. The demands and approaches of these two roles also differ significantly. But as a retired athlete, we have a unique advantage: we can combine our professional expertise with educational insights to deliver dynamic, sports-focused lessons that truly resonate with students."

Looking back on her three-month internship, Gong Rui said that it wasn’t just the positive and uplifting atmosphere on campus—there were also countless moments that surprised and touched her deeply. "I was fortunate to work with an incredibly cohesive team. From students’ thoughtful care when I felt unwell, to their attentive listening during lessons, to the invaluable support I received from the teachers—it’s clear that this school fosters a wonderful environment, embraces innovative teaching philosophies, and nurtures meaningful relationships between teachers and students."

Theoretical training combined with hands-on practice at the school brought about a fresh perspective for Gong Rui, while the one-on-one mentorship from her physical education teacher also had a profound impact on her. Gong Rui shared that today’s educational philosophy focuses on helping students become healthier, more motivated, and fostering their all-around development. "Teachers are students' best guides," she emphasized, "and being an educator is a profession that demands lifelong learning. Teachers must cultivate long-term vision and clear teaching principles. Only by continuously enriching ourselves and striving to become even better can we deliver a superior educational experience to our students."

Zhang Shanquan: Embracing Challenges in a Brand-New Field

Zhang Shanquan, a former first-class athlete in the canoe slalom event, is the youngest retired athlete participating in this training program. After retiring from competitive sports, Zhang Shanquan enrolled in the Sports Training program at Hengyang Normal University. Now a third-year student, he recently gained his "first taste of internship life" at the junior high school division of Chengdu Shiwai West District School.

Even with relatively extensive on-the-job experience and a solid theoretical foundation, Zhang Shanquan still feels that he lacks certain teaching skills in actual classroom settings. He says: "As a physical education teacher, I need to develop teaching methods tailored to students of varying skill levels and age groups—while also ensuring proper classroom management and student safety. For someone like me, who’s just transitioning into this role, these are entirely new areas and fresh challenges."

From feeling overwhelmed when first asked to teach to confidently delivering a full lesson on his own, Zhang Shanquan has grown remarkably here—thanks not only to his own hard work but also to the invaluable guidance of his mentor, Yuan Xuan. "Every time I sit in on Teacher Yuan’s class, I pick up new ways of explaining things, much like having a coach personally guiding me in a training session," Zhang shared. "My very first lesson was shaky and uncertain, but Teacher Yuan patiently walked me through it, pointing out my weaknesses while gently reminding me of my unique strengths. As I observed her teaching closely, I gradually found my own rhythm. I’m truly fortunate to have such an exceptional mentor." From being naturally reserved to gradually gaining the confidence to express himself, Zhang’s mentor, Yuan Xuan, couldn’t be prouder: "After joining her classes, he’s made incredible progress compared to that first lesson—truly remarkable!"

Zhang Shanquan said: "Through teaching, I can pass on the sportsmanship of perseverance, resilience, and teamwork—qualities I’ve cultivated on the field—to my students. Watching them improve their physical fitness and refine their athletic skills under my guidance gives me a tremendous sense of accomplishment. At the same time, I’ve also made a wonderful group of friends, including retired athletes from various sports, as well as mentors and students, all of whom have enriched my experience in ways that go beyond the competitive arena."

About to leave Chengdu, Zhang Shanquan said he will continue his advanced studies. "I’ll work hard toward my goal of becoming a physical education teacher, hoping that by the time I return to campus as an instructor, my ideas will be even clearer—so I can help more students grow up healthy and happy, supported by the joy of sports."

Tang Caihong: Enjoy the journey, grow your skills, and look ahead to the future.

"I truly enjoy the teaching process and firmly believe I can contribute to my students' growth." Tang Caihong, a national-level athlete in race walking, has leveraged her professional background during her time teaching at Tianfu No. 7 Middle School. She enhances students' practical skills by simulating real competition scenarios and incorporates sports games into her lessons, making the learning experience more engaging and interactive. "This hands-on training session at the school not only allowed me to pass on the expertise and experience I gained as an athlete to my students but also helped me develop into a qualified educator and deepened my understanding of the true essence of education."

The new teaching method has sparked students' interest in sports, while the athletes' approachable demeanor has also strengthened the emotional bond between teachers and students. "Students are both curious about and respectful of retired athletes who become their instructors," says Tang Caihong. "At the same time, they’ve developed greater trust in these teachers and are more eager to learn from them." After completing the practical training, Tang Caihong is already determined to continue her career in school-based physical education. She adds, "During this hands-on experience, I’ve also improved my communication and organizational skills—skills that I plan to apply even more effectively in my future work."

As a race-walking coach at the Bijie City Sports School in Guizhou Province, Tang Caihong has gained valuable insights and reflections from this training session. She suggests: "We could establish a systematic training and support framework to help retired athletes quickly transition into teaching roles, while also developing unique sports programs that leverage their professional expertise to bring (distinctive) and vitality to the school's physical education curriculum."

Peng Linjuan: A Fun Experience in Life

Peng Linjuan, a first-class weightlifting athlete and this year’s recent graduate, completed her in-school training at Tianfu New Area No. 5 Middle School. "This was not only an opportunity for learning and growth, but also a fascinating experience that enriched my life," she reflected on her three-month internship.

Before joining the internship program, Peng Linjuan was simultaneously working as an intern and preparing for the teacher recruitment exam. After failing her first attempt, she happened to come across this campus-based internship opportunity and immediately signed up, eager to learn firsthand from experienced mentors how to better manage students, build meaningful interactions with them, and ultimately elevate her teaching skills—both in terms of technique and overall effectiveness—through this hands-on experience.

An experience teaching her classmates how to jump rope during physical education class left Peng Linjuan with a lasting impression. "A male student couldn’t manage the long rope, and after several unsuccessful attempts, I worried he might lose confidence and give up altogether. But physical education is all about fostering children’s interest in sports and instilling in them the true spirit of athletics." By patiently explaining the proper techniques to him time after time and offering continuous encouragement, the student finally mastered the skill during that very class. "Now, every time we have long-rope jumping sessions, he eagerly lines up first. From his enthusiastic expression, I can tell he’s genuinely fallen in love with the activity—and that’s exactly what makes me feel incredibly fulfilled!"

While enhancing her ability to express herself, Peng Linjuan also places great emphasis on improving her adaptability—something she and her mentor have been focusing on the most. "For instance, what should a physical education teacher do when unexpected situations arise, such as having to return to the classroom due to bad weather, or running out of space or equipment? How can teachers seamlessly guide students to complete the remaining lesson activities? Or consider this: sometimes, despite shouting themselves hoarse, teachers find that their students remain completely indifferent. But as we spend more time together, I’ve noticed that students quickly calm down and start reminding each other. The more diverse these experiences become, the richer my own expertise grows—preparing me even better to deliver effective lessons in the future," says Peng Linjuan.

Fan Qiuju: Here’s a different kind of passion—beyond the.

“The three-month internship at the school has filled me with excitement and confidence for my future path in education.” Fan Qiuju, a first-class athlete in freestyle wrestling, actively participated in the teaching and research activities organized by Hupan Road Middle School during her internship. As someone who has always dreamed of becoming a physical education teacher, she gained valuable insights through collaborative exchanges with her mentor teachers.

The three-month internship—from lesson preparation to actual teaching—required meticulous refinement at every stage. Fan Qiuju deeply realized just how challenging teaching can be. "Unlike traditional physical education teachers, retired athletes bring naturally superior sports expertise and richer competitive experience," she explained. "When these qualities are combined with classroom instruction, they effortlessly spark students' interest and encourage them to actively engage in PE lessons." She continued, "Before, I was solely focused on my own training and competitions. Now, I must transform the sports knowledge I’ve mastered into age- and skill-appropriate teaching materials, delivering that content clearly and vividly to students during class. It’s a huge challenge—but one that I’m eager to embrace."

At the end of the training session, Fan Qiuju was deeply moved. She remarked that teaching requires even more patience and skill, as this experience revealed a different kind of passion—one that exists beyond the competition arena. "Seeing those vibrant, youthful faces reminded me of my own younger days. The students' enthusiasm and trust have brought me immense joy and heartfelt gratitude, allowing me to truly feel the happiness of being a teacher. I’m determined to continue dedicating myself to the cause of physical education."

Xia Tong: Shift Your Mindset to Pursue Growth, Paving a New Path in Life

“I’m from Hubei and I’m a wrestler,” Xia Tong, who initially felt somewhat unsure about the teaching profession, told the reporter. “I’ve always wanted to get involved in education, and when I learned about this national program, I jumped at the chance to apply without hesitation. For athletes like me, having the opportunity to intern at a school for three months—plus being paired with a dedicated ‘one-on-one’ mentor—is an invaluable experience. This platform allows retired athletes to gain a more comprehensive and authentic insight into sports education.”

Before signing up for the training program, Xia Tong had previously taught martial arts to young children at a club. "Although some teaching methods can be applied to school settings, there’s still a significant difference between physical education classes and sports teams," Xia Tong noted. "We can’t expect students to perform exactly as they would in a sports team—instead, even when faced with disobedience, we must stick to a guided, student-centered approach to nurture their passion for sports. For retired athletes like me, our credibility in front of students is naturally strong. By sharing my own experiences from my time on the sports team, I aim to inspire them with the true spirit of athletics and serve as a role model, helping them develop both a love for sports and the discipline needed to excel."

Through hands-on training, Xia Tong has also developed many of her own insights and methods. "For instance, if students aren’t particularly cooperative, it’s crucial to quickly help them recognize the teacher’s unique strengths—something that earns their respect and trust—so that subsequent tasks can be carried out more smoothly. This is precisely when showcasing your professional expertise becomes essential." "During a 45-minute class, how can you make the most of your time effectively? I start by studying proven teaching techniques, then brainstorm my own approach. But the real key is to build a personal system afterward, integrating specialized knowledge to deliver a compelling and impactful lesson."

Thanks to his experience with the professional team, during the practical training, Xia Tong also suggested to teachers and students that they increase the stretching time in physical education classes—incorporating both pre-exercise activation stretches and post-training recovery stretches. As a result, teachers and students now practice stretching in a much more professional and effective manner.

From sweating it out on the wrestling mat to giving his all on the school playground, Xia Tong’s hands-on training experience at school has deepened his appreciation for sports. "If we want to truly advance sports, we must start with foundational education—and that means nurturing young athletes from an early age. I’m eager to do my part."

Training instructor: Bringing retired athletes into schools is a "win-win" situation.

"Retired athletes joining schools for practical training exemplifies the deep integration of sports and education. This initiative not only facilitates the transition of retired athletes from 'sports professionals' to 'education professionals,' catering to the diverse needs of students in their athletic development, but also enhances the quality of physical education at schools while filling critical gaps in the implementation of specialized sports programs on campus. Moreover, it opens up new opportunities and platforms for retired athletes to advance their careers—a true 'win-win' situation," said Wang Zhengchuan, Vice Principal of Sichuan Tianfu New Area No. 5 Middle School. This time, Tianfu No. 5 Middle School welcomed six retired athletes for practical training, and thanks to the personalized guidance provided by dedicated "one-on-one" mentors, both parties have gained significant benefits.

Wang Zhengchuan said: "By observing their mentor deliver a full lesson, students gain insight into the entire teaching process. They then get hands-on experience by leading a class independently, with the mentor providing guidance from the sidelines. Ultimately, by integrating their own professional skills, they achieve independent teaching. It’s clear that retired athletes not only benefit significantly from this practical training but also undergo remarkable personal and professional transformations. Beyond teaching physical education classes, these athletes have also taken on roles as coaches for school sports clubs and in-school athletic training programs. For instance, retired athletes specializing in disciplines like shooting, archery, rowing, canoeing, and weightlifting have leveraged their expertise to revitalize existing sports clubs, making them incredibly popular among students. At the same time, their expertise has strengthened the coaching staff of the school’s competitive teams, enriched the school’s specialized sports curriculum, and fostered seamless resource sharing and mutual reinforcement between the fields of sports and education."

Tang Jinju, Deputy Director of the Student Development Service Center at Tianfu No. 7 Middle School, stated that as retired athletes participate in on-campus training and take up roles as physical education teachers, the school has come to deeply appreciate their invaluable contributions to sports education. These athletes not only impart professional skills and inspire the spirit of sportsmanship but also pioneer innovative teaching methods and help athletes realize their personal growth—ultimately enriching the school’s physical education programs and supporting students’ overall development. "For students, the career of an athlete is still relatively unfamiliar; previously, they might only know about it through TV or competitions, witnessing athletes proudly representing their teams and countries. This often sparks a strong aspiration among young people. But when these athletes step into the classroom and become their children’s PE teachers, it becomes a powerful educational experience in itself."

Tang Jinju explained that the retired athletes participating in the practical training program stepped into the classroom—specifically, the three-foot-high lectern—at Tianfu No. 7 Middle School during their very first week. There, they shared their personal sports journeys, introduced their respective disciplines, and passionately conveyed the essence of sportsmanship. The students listened intently, fostering a deeper appreciation for athletic values and helping to spread the spirit of sports across the campus. This unique approach serves as a powerful form of moral education tailored specifically for young athletes. Moreover, these retired athletes bring unparalleled expertise in their specialized fields, making significant contributions to the school’s physical education curriculum and research initiatives. By sharing their advanced knowledge and the rigorous training methodologies honed in professional sports teams, they’ve not only enhanced the professional skills of the school’s physical education teachers but also provided invaluable guidance to the institution’s competitive sports teams, ultimately elevating their performance and development.

Song Zhongming, the head of the Physical Education Research Group for Grade 4 at Tianfu No. 7 Primary School's elementary division, served as mentor to retired athlete Tang Caihong during this hands-on training program. He shared, "The athletes' energy and enthusiasm have brought a refreshing new vibe to our physical education classes. They consistently deliver high-quality work on time, and through their expertise, we’ve all grown together—both students and teachers alike—in terms of professional teaching methods." He particularly highlighted one insightful detail: "For instance, many people assume running is simple—but as a seasoned track and field athlete, Tang Caihong paid close attention to every aspect, from arm movement and body posture to foot placement upon landing. She shared countless valuable details that even us physical education teachers hadn’t fully appreciated before. Thanks to her guidance, not only have students gained a deeper understanding of proper running techniques, but we’ve also realized how mastering running can lay a strong foundation for students’ overall athletic development. This mutually beneficial collaboration not only fosters the rational flow of sports talent and optimizes resource allocation but also injects fresh, expert energy into the school’s physical education programs."

Yang Li, Assistant Director of the Tianfu No. 4 Middle School Education Research Institute, summarized this in-school training program as a "mutual journey" of threefold integration between education and sports.

"First is the 'two-way engagement' of our educational philosophy—after all, sports and education are inherently an organic unity, deeply interdependent. Retired athletes entering schools for practical training not only continuously inspire students with their athletic spirit and mindset, fostering resilience and determination, but also gain firsthand experience in the art and practice of collaboration, inclusivity, care, and growth."

Second, there’s the "two-way engagement" of teaching roles. Cultivating sports education professionals requires a multifaceted approach. Retired athletes typically possess advanced expertise in their specific sport, making them valuable assets who can provide strong technical support to schools’ athletic programs and help teams excel in their respective disciplines—creating a distinct "specialized excellence" advantage. At the same time, schools’ diverse and varied sports curriculum allows retired athletes to explore and master additional sports beyond their own specialties, fostering a versatile teaching skill set that embodies the principle of "one specialty with multiple capabilities." This balanced dynamic ensures a seamless exchange: athletes contribute their specialized knowledge to the educational process while, in turn, gaining fresh insights and experiences that enrich their own development as educators.

Third, there’s the "two-way journey" in educational relationships. When retired athletes enter schools for practical training, it essentially marks a transformation and establishment of meaningful connections. In an interactive educational setting, athletes’ unique identities, combined with their rigorous training backgrounds and competitive experiences, naturally spark students’ curiosity and admiration. This not only effectively ignites students’ passion for sports but also helps them nurture their "sports dreams." Meanwhile, this shift in roles—from athletes who once stood on the field themselves to now guiding students toward that same stage—enables athletes to refine their own educational personas and reaffirm their aspirations in teaching. Ultimately, through this mutual exchange in the teacher-student dynamic, athletes can rediscover and fulfill their true value.

Physical Education Curriculum Developer: "One-on-One" Mentor-Mentee Pairing Drives Transformation

"In recent years, China has placed increasing emphasis on teaching specialized sports skills in school physical education. The nation’s pioneering program—bringing retired athletes into schools for hands-on training—enables these athletes to leverage their unique strengths and expertise while successfully transitioning into new careers, effectively advancing the deep integration of sports and education." Speaking at the conclusion of the three-month training program, Fan Shuqing, the sports curriculum researcher from Sichuan Tianfu New Area and the person responsible for developing and overseeing the entire initiative, shared her insights.

Considering that most trainees have not received systematic training in sports education, Fan Shuqing has integrated athletes' characteristics and the teaching needs of physical education classes in primary and secondary schools into the curriculum planning, proposing the following approach: In the first month, participants will focus on mastering fundamental skills essential for physical education teachers, such as formation commands and whistle-based instruction. The second month will emphasize basic technical training in the three major ball sports—content that is widely taught and highly relevant in primary and secondary schools. By the third month, trainees will begin creating micro-lessons, with each participant developing a practical, project-specific micro-lesson tailored to real-world teaching scenarios. This phase will also include career guidance sessions, along with lectures covering educational and pedagogical theories, as well as insights into the development of foundational physical education. "By setting task-oriented objectives and delivering training in phased stages, we can help participants deepen their understanding of the principles, goals, content, and key teacher qualities required for effective physical education instruction in primary and secondary schools," she added.

After completing the initial training, retired athletes were divided into four major groups. Each group was then assigned coaches from the head coach level down, pairing them one-on-one with physical education teachers from their respective schools for mentorship and guidance. "Every September," said Fan Shuqing, "we take on internship placements for students from multiple universities. But before that happens, our top priority is selecting retired athletes—carefully vetting them—and then working closely with the Institute of Education Sciences and the Shared Center to identify outstanding, experienced teachers who will provide expert guidance throughout the process."

From a student-athlete to a physical education teacher and now a researcher in the field of sports education, Fan Shuqing views practical training as an excellent opportunity for grassroots PE teachers and retired athletes to learn from each other. "It’s truly beneficial for retired athletes to join schools— their strong expertise, skills, and proven training methods bring fresh insights and perspectives to teachers, ultimately enhancing the professionalism of skill-based instruction."

During the training program, retired athletes first attend classes to learn, then share their personal insights, and gradually progress to conducting lessons independently—eventually taking on broader responsibilities in the school’s physical education and moral education initiatives. "The trainees demonstrate rapid role adaptation, strong execution skills, and an exceptional eagerness to learn," is how Fan Shuqing summarized her overall assessment of the participants. Fan Shuqing added, "By bringing athletes into the campus environment, we not only pass on the spirit of self-challenge and national pride but also empower students while fostering greater enthusiasm for sports across the community. Looking ahead, we need to explore ways to encourage outstanding retired athletes to stay on after their initial involvement, enabling them to continue contributing to physical education and character development in schools."

Employer: Thank you to retired athletes for contributing their professional expertise.

After completing her training at the school, Sichuan Tianfu Middle School Affiliated Primary School proactively signed a contract with Gong Rui, a retired alpine skier who had just finished her training at the school. Following the agreement, Gong Rui will join the school as a Physical Education and Health teacher for the new academic year, taking on the role of first-grade physical education instructor. She will be responsible for delivering sports education and instruction to first-graders, as well as developing and implementing school-based curriculum tailored to her unique athletic expertise. With this opportunity, Gong Rui has successfully unlocked a key that could pave the way for other retired athletes looking to transition into teaching roles.

"During the three-month internship, through standardized management and hands-on application, we’ve effectively enhanced the quality and efficiency of retired athletes transitioning into sports educators—while also equipping the school with a richer pool of physical education teachers and more diverse sports programs," said Lu Fang, Principal of Sichuan Tianfu Middle School Affiliated Primary School. She explained that the decision to hire Gong Rui was based on her exceptional qualities: as a former athlete, Gong Rui has cultivated unwavering resilience and a profound sportsmanship through years of rigorous professional training and competitive experiences at various levels. Additionally, her strong communication skills and ability to connect with others demonstrate remarkable social adaptability. "Throughout the internship, she has successfully passed these values and qualities on to students, positively influencing their physical and mental well-being, as well as fostering their determination and character development," Lu Fang added.

Yang Xiaotian, Secretary-General of the Sichuan Tianfu New Area Modern Pentathlon Association, told reporters: "When we heard that a group of retired athletes was set to join Tianfu New Area, we reached out to the Tianfu New Area Teacher Sharing Center to inquire whether any of them were professional athletes qualified to serve as coaches for our association. As soon as we saw Yuan Xin’s name—she’s a professional modern pentathlete—on the list, it immediately caught our attention, and we knew we had to make sure she stayed with us."

The need for coaches arises because there is a significant professional skills gap in modern pentathlon. "Unlike other sports, modern pentathletes must master not only running, swimming, shooting, fencing, and equestrian events simultaneously, but also demonstrate exceptionally high levels of overall—physical, mental, and tactical." In 2020, the association partnered with Shiwai West District School to jointly develop modern pentathlon talent, establishing a shared base for nurturing future athletes. This collaboration has, in turn, placed even greater demands on coaches' specialized expertise.

Yang Xiaotian said, "Since our professional team is based at the school, we need to broaden our foundation. That’s why we’ve opened modern pentathlon experience classes to students from the West District of Shiwai School. Students interested in practicing can also head to off-campus facilities for advanced training. Additionally, every winter and summer vacation, we organize summer (and winter) camps where students compete across the country. That’s precisely why the association greatly values professional athletes like Yuan Xin."

Not only the Modern Pentathlon Association, but also a group of employers gathered at the closing ceremony to host a dual-selection event, aiming to recruit more retired athletes into the workforce. "In recent years, Chengdu has been actively striving to become a 'City of Sports,' leading to an explosive surge in demand for various sports training programs," said a representative from one of the hiring organizations at the scene. "As a result, there’s a growing shortage of qualified sports educators and coaches. Retired athletes, with their proven professional skills and expertise, are precisely the talent we’re eager to retain in Chengdu—helping us strengthen the city’s sports-training market even further."