More than a game

In a journey of self-improvement and empowerment, the Million Miles women's soccer team in Tianjin is not only rekindling dreams but also breaking down barriers and cultivating lasting connections, Chen Xue reports.

Xiaxia (pseudonym), 33, was introduced to the world of soccer when she discovered a Japanese animé called Captain Tsubasa during her primary school years. "The depiction of teamwork and unwavering dedication in the show ignited a fire within me," she said.

However, Xiaxia soon confronted societal resistance to her passion. "Many people questioned the idea of girls playing soccer," she said. "They believe that a girl should have the demeanor of a girl, and should engage in more 'feminine' activities like dancing or swimming."

Throughout her upbringing, Xiaxia often played soccer with boys since it was hard to find fellow female players. After she entered high school, however, the physical disparities between boys and girls became more apparent, leading her to feel increasingly uncomfortable playing soccer with boys. So she stopped engaging in the sport, not just when she was a high school and college student, but also after she started working.