Chinese soccer girl a star on field and in classroom

The Florida State Seminoles compete as a member of the NCAA Division I level, and took the crown of 2014 NCAA final. It is also the alma mater of many national players of Japan, Iceland, Finland, and Ireland.

Mark Krikorian, head coach of the Florida State Seminoles women’s soccer program, was deeply impressed by Zhao’s application materials. Krikorian was also amazed at Zhao’s English proficiency, and believes the girl would be a very effective complement to the team.

Zhao’s decision to study in the US was supported by her coaches. Sun Wen, deputy team leader of China women’s national team, believes it is good for Zhao’s sustainable development. Gao Hong, head coach of China U16 team, said Zhao’s experience in the US will be a positive support to China’s national team in the future. “We need more players with international experience,” Gao added.

Zhao worries about the fierce competition among future teammates at FSU and the study pressure from NCAA, as the association does not allow a player with bad academic performance to stay on the field. “When there is a problem, there is a solution,” the 18-year-old soothed herself.

She hasn’t forgotten her motherland. “It is my dream and goal to play in the national team, and I would treasure the opportunity to fight for my country if I got the chance,” said Zhao during an interview before her departure.

Sportswriter Lan Qing and thepaper.cn contributed to this story.