In an interview with CCTV, former international soccer player Sun Jihai shared in-depth insights into his commitment to youth training over the past three years. The soccer star not only talked about his journey of transforming into a youth training coach, but also confronted the challenges and misunderstandings facing the youth training industry and expressed his firm confidence in the future of Chinese soccer.
Devoting myself to youth training and enjoying growing up with children
Since 2021, Sun Jihai has devoted all his energy to the cause of youth training, not only completing his studies as a professional-level coach, but also personally leading the team and experiencing the role transition from national team to youth training coach. He confessed that although there are pains and joys in the process, but see the children from the initial kicking with the toes, not more than 10 ball reversal, to today's gradual growth, this sense of achievement and happiness far more than the honor of the professional league or the national team coach. Sun Jihai firmly believes that youth training is the cornerstone of soccer development, and he is willing to give up the temptation of professional clubs and stick to this promising land.
Breaking down the prejudice of "only rich people can play soccer" and bringing soccer back to purity
In response to the social prejudice of "only rich families can play soccer", Sun Jihai expressed understanding and firmly opposed. He emphasized that his youth training base through the sea selection of children together, providing free food, housing, training equipment and compulsory education, aims to break the economic threshold, so that more children have the opportunity to contact and love soccer. Sun Jihai believes that soccer should be a universal sport, not a privilege for the few.
Invest heavily, face the reality and be firm in your convictions
Talking about the financial investment in youth training, Sun Jihai bluntly said that youth training is indeed a very money-consuming endeavor. He revealed that the youth training company he founded has invested more than 28 million yuan, far more than the initial expectations. Nevertheless, Sun Jihai did not retreat, he firmly believe that as long as the direction is correct, in line with the laws of soccer development, will be able to succeed. He said that the return cycle of youth training is long, and it takes at least 10 years to see significant results, but he has full confidence in himself and his team, believing that they can cultivate outstanding players who will fight for their country and realize the virtuous cycle of the business model.
Looking to the future, sowing hope for Chinese soccer
Sun Jihai said that despite the challenging road of youth training, he is full of confidence in the future of Chinese soccer. He believes that as long as everyone works together and follows the right direction, Chinese soccer will be able to usher in a renaissance. He hopes that through his efforts and perseverance, he can sow more hope for Chinese soccer, cultivate more young players with potential, and contribute his strength to the future of Chinese soccer.
