“Village Super League” in Guizhou

The Chinese national football team suffered a 1-3 defeat against Vietnam on the first day of the Lunar New Year. If the national team continues to perform like this, even the monkeys of Mount Emei would have a chance at victory, not just Laos, Brunei, and the Vatican. But in a mere 30 days, a remote small town revitalized the sport that the Chinese national football team took 30 years to "ruin"! Not only did they revive football, but the people of Rongjiang in Guizhou also added a fresh spin to the game, turning it into a nationwide celebration and a showcase of local culture. The question remains: how did they accomplish this feat?

What is “Village Super League” in Guizhou?

The "Beautiful Countryside" themed Sanbao Dong Village Country Football Super League commenced on May 13th at the Sports Center in the northern part of Rongjiang County. With over ten thousand spectators, the thrilling matches and vibrant ethnic atmosphere quickly gained online popularity. The event garnered significant attention from mainstream media, both regionally and nationally. Internet users, using naming conventions like "Premier League" and "Chinese Super League," coined the country football super league as "Village Super" or "Village FA," drawing comparisons to Taijiang County's "Village BA."

To ensure that it doesn't clash with the busy farming season, the league was intentionally scheduled from May to August. Once the league concludes, players can focus on harvesting the rice fields. Matches take place every Friday to Sunday, spanning from May 13th to July 29th, with ethnic performances on every Saturday night.

With a history spanning over 80 years, Rongjiang's football heritage is deeply rooted. The village's football super league has become a cherished local festival, attracting passionate players and tens of thousands of cheering spectators. During halftime, villagers with rich traditions play flutes, sing Miao and Dong folk songs, exhibit exquisite minority costumes, and showcase special foods and agricultural products. Football seamlessly intertwines with the local ethnic culture.

Features of Guizhou “Village Super League”

In this setting, there are no renowned football stars, sponsors, or ticket sales generating revenue. Nonetheless, it has captivated over fifty thousand football enthusiasts, ranging from eighty-year-old grandmothers to preschoolers, who all passionately beat drums and cheer for the players battling on the field.

The tournament features participants from diverse backgrounds, including butchers, fishmongers, excavator operators, as well as teachers and government officials. Despite their varied occupations, they exhibit remarkable skills on the field of the " Village Super League," executing iconic moves such as Neymar's rainbow flick and Cristiano Ronaldo-style bicycle kick goals. They have their own versions of " Neymar" and "Ronardo" , who are named as Waimar (外马尔) or Guinardo (贵纳尔多).

They had neither professional trainers nor formal rehearsals. Villagers revealed that each ethnic group in Rongjiang has its own traditional festivals, and with the town's reputation as a sports hub and a football demonstration county, there are frequent matches. During these festivals and games, they effortlessly put on remarkable performances. It has become a "routine operation" deeply ingrained in their daily lives.

Where does the budget for the match come from? Each person in the village contributed 20 yuan for the team.

What is the prize? During the tournament, the winner of each match will receive two pig's legs as a prize. For the league champion, the prize will be a local calf. During halftime, the event organizers awarded the "Best Spectator" prize, which is a bag of rice for each recipient.

Travel to Guizhou and see “Village Super League” matches

The "Cun Chao" league has transcended football, embodying the rich local culture and ethnic customs of Guizhou's southeastern region. It is a mesmerizing spectacle where the purest form of football coexists with the vibrant traditions, customs, and genuine excitement of the community.

If you happen to be in Guizhou during the "Cun Chao" league, we will join you in experiencing Guizhou's unwavering love for football. And of course, whenever you visit Guizhou, you can always immerse yourself in the purest ethnic charm.

"Village Super League" schedule 2023