Soccer inspiring hearing-impaired to succeed

Since joining though, he has developed a passion for the sport and has become more disciplined, Zheng said, and even played on the Chinese team at the World Deaf Soccer Championships in Greece in 2008.

Longren has gone from being a local club to one that recruits nationally. These days, players not only come from Zhanjiang, but also from places such as Chongqing, and the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan and Shaanxi, the coach said.

After many years of experience, Zheng said that he hopes to make hearing-impaired soccer more popular and more influential nationwide, and added that the club is preparing to create a domestic soccer league, hopefully with sponsorship.

That will attract even more hearing-impaired players, who could later go on to become coaches or referees.

Wang Liuqing, who plays on the women's team, said that frequently participation in training and competitions can inspire players to be courageous and overcome difficulties.

"It can also promote unity and cooperation, and can have a positive impact on your personality and mindset," she said.

Li Kangfa, Wang's husband, agreed, saying that soccer has brought him a lot of happiness over the years. The couple have played for the club for more than a decade.

Wang Han contributed to this story.

zhengcaixiong@chinadaily.com.cn