Chongqing – Over 200 aspiring footballers braved the late-summer heat in Chongqing’s Shapingba District tryouts for the “Yuchao” City Football Super League, the grassroots tournament kicking off September 13.

The trials were no casual kickabout. Players were put through four tough challenges: a 30-meter sprint to showcase raw pace, a dribbling-and-shooting drill to test control and accuracy, a punishing 25-meter shuttle run to measure stamina and agility, and finally a full scrimmage to see who could deliver under match pressure.

On August 31, at the "Yuchao" trials in Chongqing Shapingba District, players underwent live match assessments. (Photo/Chongqing Daily)

It was the shuttle run that pushed many to their limits. But while most struggled through, one figure in a bright yellow goalkeeper's jersey stood out—44-year-old Sun Jiong.

Tall, lean, and focused, Sun has been guarding the net since childhood. "I started playing when I was six, always as a keeper," he said. "Now I still play three or four times a week and even run my own team."

"Football has always been my one true passion, and my family supports me completely," he added. 

That passion was clear in the scrimmage. Throwing himself across the goalmouth, Sun made save after save, winning cheers from the crowd and nods of approval from the coaching staff. His fearless performance showed that experience and determination can sometimes eclipse youth and speed.

The Shapingba tryouts also reflected the broad appeal of grassroots football in Chongqing. Participants ranged from teenagers to 50-somethings, with day jobs spanning IT, engineering, finance, and more. Some were weekend hobbyists; others once played at a semi-professional level. What united them all was the dream of representing their district on the city stage. 

Chen Hongyu, a 21-year-old Chongqing Normal University student, and teammate Liu Weizhen also emerged as top contenders during the recruitment. Both expressed enthusiasm about representing their community. "This is our chance to prove ourselves," Chen said. 

Their trial performances underscored their potential. Chen, a forward, posted elite stats: 4.03 seconds in the 30-meter sprint, 31.71 seconds in the 25-meter shuttle run, and 7.55 seconds in dribble-and-shoot drills. Liu, a midfielder, matched this with 4.30, 31.34, and 7.86 seconds respectively, showcasing balanced athleticism.

Veteran supporters, including members of the Chongqing Elderly Hongyan Football Team, cheered enthusiastically. "Seeing such talent in Shapingba's squad is inspiring," said 82-year-old fan Lu Feng. "We're confident they'll excel in the Super League."

The coaching staff will soon trim the roster to 40 players for intensive training. Head coach Sun Yang promised the selection would be "fair, professional, and transparent" to assemble a squad tough enough to compete at the top level of the grassroots league.