18 Zhanjiang schools identified as specialist schools in youth football

Eighteen Zhanjiang primary and middle schools were recognized as 2018 National Specialist Schools in Youth Campus Football, according to a list released by the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Aug 9.

The lists were made based on the application of the schools, as well as the recommendations and examination of the departments on education, in accordance with the MOE circular on the selection work released in March.

The selection, which has been conducted annually since 2015, aims to enhance students' physical fitness through sports activities. Schools are encouraged to organize more football training sessions and matches, while also improving sports facilities and improving teaching methods. 

A total of 3,916 middle and primary schools across China have been identified as schools specializing in youth football. They will receive local policy and financial support for enrollment, and focus on teaching students to play football.

Zhanjiang, a pilot city of Guangdong's football reform, issued the Medium and Long-Term Plan for Zhanjiang's Football Development (2017-2050) and the Zhanjiang Football Field Construction Plan (2016-2020) as guidelines for local football-related undertakings.

A three-level amateur football league system has already taken shape in the city, with a large number of football back-up talents currently being trained. As of today, there are 477 football fields of various sizes scattered throughout Zhanjiang.  

The city is also home to five national sports demonstration schools and 93 provincial campus football promotion schools. It ranks second in the province in number of characteristic sports schools.