The Wuhan University dragon boat team trains.

Members of Wuhan University's dragon boat team recently shared their motivations for joining the team and how the decision changed their lives.

One athlete aimed to build strength after being considered too skinny for the basketball team, while another was drawn to the sport due to a childhood love for water.

Team member Qin Yaxing recalled a pivotal moment in 2018 when the men's team competed in Wanning, Hainan province, soon after another competition in Dongguan, Guangdong province.

The team returned to campus late at night, disheartened by their performance. Despite their exhaustion, they embarked on a grueling training session to complete 300 push-ups, highlighting their relentless pursuit of excellence.

Zhu Qinpeng reflected on how the team changed him on a personal level. Once introverted, Zhu became more outgoing and confident through shared experiences with his teammates.

He emphasized that balancing academics with extracurricular activities like dragon boating enriched his university experience, providing invaluable lessons in resilience and teamwork.

Coach Li Haibing highlighted the sport's role in fostering educational values at the university and the importance of integrating traditional and modern sports to inspire student participation.

The dragon boat team's journey has improved students' physical fitness and deepened their appreciation for teamwork and interpersonal connections, leaving them with cherished memories of shared celebrations and struggles during their university life.