Chinese Champions arrive at UW-Madison

The 16 athletes of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Chinese Champions Program stepped off of a chartered bus into a swarm of excited fans — including Bucky Badger himself.

Arriving at approximately 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, the athletes were greeted by dozens of members of Madison’s Chinese community outside the Armory and Gymnasium (Red Gym). UW–Madison students, families and others crowded near the curb with flowers and cameras, hoping to catch a glimpse of world champions such as Zhang Yining and Gong Ruina.

Program coordinator Li Li Ji, professor of kinesiology, welcomed the group with a brief speech in the On Wisconsin Room.

“You will find this a great city; it’s a great community,” said Ji, as his spouse Jia-Ling Lin, translated his remarks into Chinese. “Madison is known for its hospitality towards Chinese athletes.”
 
On the heels of a Beijing-to-Chicago flight, the group — including some spouses and children — departed for their new homes in Eagle Heights, already stocked with a starter supply of home comforts.

After settling in, the participants will begin their first eight-week class session on Monday, April 4, studying subjects such as exercise science, sports management and English as a second language.