In a pivotal development in September 2008, floorball became an elective course in physical education at the Shanghai International Studies University and Chen encouraged more students to try the sport.

"The game was a resounding success. It showcased strong team spirit and a vibrant atmosphere of unity," she says.

From the first game in 2008 at the university, floorball has gained popularity in Shanghai, culminating in a university floorball group venturing abroad to Singapore in 2014 for the 6th World University Championships for Floorball.

"It's a pity that university players often lose interest in floorball after graduation," Chen says. "I believe health is as important as academic and career achievements. My mission is to engage more people in sports activities and empower them for healthy growth, which is my lifelong commitment."

On the ground

In 2013, driven by the desire to instill a lifelong love for sports in the younger generation, Chen established the China Floorball Development Center. The same year, armed with 20 floorball sticks sponsored by a Shanghai nonprofit group, she began on a journey to the Bangzhai Primary School, nestled amid the mountains in Qingzhen of Southwest China's Guizhou province.