On October 7, 2023, the 2024 National Women’s Field Hockey Championship kicked off in the Gongshu District of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. This exciting nine-day event features 11 teams and nearly 300 athletes and coaches from across various regions, including Beijing, Tianjin, Inner Mongolia, Liaoning, Jilin, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Guangdong, Chongqing, Sichuan, and Gansu.

Taking place at the Gongshu Canal Sports Park, a venue previously used for the Asian Games, this championship holds special significance. Just last year, the Chinese women’s field hockey team celebrated a momentous victory here against South Korea, securing the gold medal and a place in the upcoming Paris Olympics. A year later, the atmosphere shifts as former teammates now face off against one another in this prestigious national championship.

This year’s tournament showcases an impressive roster of talent. The Chinese women’s field hockey team, fresh off their silver medal performance at the Paris Olympics where they triumphed over some of the strongest teams from Europe and the U.S., is well represented. Among the standout athletes competing are captain Ou Zixia, vice-captain Li Hong, top scorer Gu Bingfeng, and promising young talents Tan Jintong and Zou Meirong.

The championship is also viewed as a prelude to the World Women’s Hockey Super League’s China leg (Pro League), scheduled for later this year. The Chinese women’s field hockey team will once again host matches in Hangzhou, facing tough competitors from Belgium and the UK.

Additionally, it’s noteworthy that during last year’s Asian Games, Gongshu established the “International Field Hockey Development Training Base,” which received a boost of support from International Hockey Federation President Tayyab, who awarded the district. Looking ahead, Gongshu is eager to host more prominent international and domestic field hockey events, aiming to enhance its global profile and contribute to Hangzhou’s vision as a city known for international competitions.