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With only 8 days to go for the Asian Para Games, Members of Chinese delegation are getting ready to give it their all, including wheelchair tennis team.
Wheelchair tennis appeared for the first time on Paralympic Programme in Barcelona in 1992. It originated from the USA in the 1970s and continues to develop a strong following of players and fans internationally. Wheelchair tennis has also developed well at China. The national team members gathered at their training base a month ago to gear up for the upcoming Asian Para Games. The team consists of 3 males and 4 female players competing over 4 different events.
Liu Xiaoqing, China Wheelchair Tennis Coach, said, We haven't won any gold medals in wheelchair tennis yet. We have only won a silver and bronze before. This time we are sending more rookie players on court to give them more opportunities to compete.
Dong Fuli took part in the Athens Paralympic Games in 2004 and again in Beijing four years later. The 41-year-old is the most experienced player in the team. Guangzhou will be her last big event before retiring.
Dong Fuli, said, "My goal this time is do my best. And give my best on court. Also to enjoy the competition. Happiness is the most important thing for me now."
Rookie Wei Zujun is the rising star of the team. He's the national singles and doubles champion having only played the sport for two years. The 18-year-old is hoping he has the chance to shine.
Wei Zujun said, "I would like to have more opportunities against foreign players. In that case I can learn from them and get more experience. I am young, I have to learn more."
With the Games starting on the 12th of December, all the team are aiming for an Asian Para Games gold medal, and as a result will be pushing hard in training before competition starts.