After the flood: Village Super League returns, rallying Rongjiang's recovery

GUIYANG, Aug. 2 (Xinhua) -- Just one month after being submerged by devastating floods, China's popular grassroots football tournament, the Village Super League - also known as Cun Chao - has returned, symbolizing Rongjiang County's rapid recovery and showcasing the community's extraordinary resilience.

Rongjiang, located in Guizhou Province, was struck by two major floods on June 24 and 28. Torrents of water inundated the county town, causing widespread damage. The iconic Cun Chao stadium was submerged, forcing a suspension of the tournament, which began in May 2023 and quickly captured national attention.

The league's growing fame proved crucial. "Without the VSL, the nation might not have learned about Rongjiang's disaster so quickly," said Xia Wentao, a devoted fan from Jiangxi Province who rushed to donate supplies and volunteer. "Nor would we have witnessed the unity and resilience of the Rongjiang people."

The disaster triggered an immediate response nationwide. More than 10,000 rescue personnel mobilized to Rongjiang, working alongside residents to restore order and begin rebuilding.

VSL players traded football boots for rain boots, helping to clear mud and debris with the same determination they show on the field.

These collective efforts enabled a swift recovery. Basic services were largely restored, major roads reopened, and over 90% of the approximately 6,800 affected businesses resumed operations.

The gratitude-themed reopening of the Cun Chao on July 26 marked a major milestone. A refurbished stadium welcomed back teams, fans and guests, including football legends Roberto Baggio and Roberto Carlos, whose appearance helped draw massive crowds.

That day alone, Rongjiang hosted 180,000 visitors and generated 188 million yuan (about $26 million U.S. dollars) in tourism revenue. With hotels at capacity, local schools provided around 6,000 beds for overflow guests.

Rescue teams and volunteers were honored guests at the matches and joined a grand gratitude parade alongside locals.

The return of the tournament brought renewed economic activity. Fruit vendor Yan Jiafu, who suffered heavy losses in the flood, reopened in mid-July with the help of a 500,000 yuan government-supported loan. "Cun Chao is back, and so is our confidence," he said.

"Restarting the league embodies our profound thanks for the nationwide solidarity during the crisis," said Xu Bo, Party chief of Rongjiang County. "The concerted effort between local people and supporters from across the country vividly demonstrates the unity of the Chinese people."

With the rebuilt stadium now ready, Rongjiang looks ahead to the Cun Chao finals on Aug. 9 - a fitting climax for a tournament that helped galvanize the county's revival.  ■