Chinese Champions arrive at UW-Madison

The 16 athletes of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Chinese Champions Program stepped off of a chartered bus into a swarm of excited fans — including Bucky Badger himself.

Arriving at approximately 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, the athletes were greeted by dozens of members of Madison's Chinese community outside the Armory and Gymnasium (Red Gym). UW-Madison students, families and others crowded near the curb with flowers and cameras, hoping to catch a glimpse of world champions such as Zhang Yining and Gong Ruina.

Program coordinator Li Li Ji, professor of kinesiology, welcomed the group with a brief speech in the On Wisconsin Room.

"You will find this a great city; it’s a great community," said Ji, as his spouse Jia-Ling Lin, translated his remarks into Chinese. "Madison is known for its hospitality towards Chinese athletes."
 
On the heels of a Beijing-to-Chicago flight, the group -- including some spouses and children -- departed for their new homes in Eagle Heights, already stocked with a starter supply of home comforts.

After settling in, the participants will begin their first eight-week class session on Monday, April 4, studying subjects such as exercise science, sports management and English as a second language.