Autistic students take a badminton training session on May 17 (Xinhua/Wang Junbao)
Established in July 2017, Chenjin International Sports Club is named after badminton world champion Chen Jin. The classes of it cater to autistic students, and the club waives all fees.
HARBIN, May 18 (Xinhua) -- At Chenjin International Sports Club in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, 20-year-old Chen Shuotian attends badminton training every Wednesday without paying any fees.
"Every Wednesday and Friday, we offer free classes with a dozen students in each. Our professional coaches provide one-hour lessons, followed by an hour of free activities at the venue," said Huang Changbin, general manager of Chenjin International Sports Club. The classes cater to autistic students, and the club waives all fees.
Established in July 2017, the club is named after badminton world champion Chen Jin. "Charity has been an integral part of our work since the club's inception," Huang explained. After meeting parents of autistic children in 2018, Chen Jin decided to provide free badminton lessons for autistic teenagers, a program that continues to this day.
"In the past five years, nearly 50 students have received training, and over 30 students currently attend the two classes," Huang noted.
"When we started, many students struggled to focus and hit the ball," recalled coach Wang Tianji.
"It's essential to be patient, encourage students, and maintain a positive atmosphere," Wang advised.
Chen Shuotian's mother, Sun Damei, shared her son's experience, "Chen began badminton training at 15, often grappling with emotional issues. The training gradually stabilized his mood and improved his physical strength and coordination."
The club's coaches employ varied training methods tailored to each student's personality, fostering mutual understanding. "Transitioning from unfamiliarity to familiarity with students, I feel that our work is about sharing love. Their laughter brings me joy," said coach Zhao Qi.
Many students experience increased confidence and improved mental well-being after badminton training. In 2021, several club members, including Chen Shuotian, won medals at China's eighth National Special Olympic Games.
"Parents didn't accompany their children to the competition, and only a few coaches led the team. Being apart from my child for nearly a month worried me, but the unexpected results bolstered my child's confidence," Sun Damei recounted.
"Calming the children during the competition was challenging, but the rewarding outcome validated our five years of effort," Zhao added.
"We aim to make autistic children feel valued and supported by society, and we're committed to continuing this charitable endeavor," Huang Changbin affirmed. ■