Floodwaters recede at birthplace of China's Village Super League as recovery begins

GUIYANG -- Rongjiang county in Southwest China's Guizhou province, widely known as the birthplace of the Village Super League, or Cun Chao, is beginning post-disaster recovery after being hit by two severe floods in less than a week.

Since June 24, back-to-back floods have inundated large parts of the county, with the Cun Chao stadium — which is situated in a low-lying urban area — submerged twice within five days.

On June 28, a second wave of flooding struck, prompting local authorities to escalate the flood emergency response from Level IV to the highest Level I within eight hours. As of June 29, floodwaters receded, and reconstruction efforts, including dredging and debris removal, are underway.

Launched in May 2023, Cun Chao has grown into one of China's most prominent grassroots football events, attracting international attention for its community spirit and festive atmosphere.

On the morning of June 29, three excavators and four bulldozers were seen clearing thick layers of sludge from the stadium.

"As mandated by the command center, we will deploy four large drones for disinfection to restore this place to its former vibrancy soon," said Xiang Hui, captain of an emergency rescue team.

Several local footballers who had participated in Cun Chao matches volunteered to help with the cleanup.

"The thick sludge makes cleanup difficult, but we are doing our utmost," said Li Faxiong, who has played in several Cun Chao games. Li also invited fans from across China and around the world to return to Rongjiang for matches once recovery is complete.

"We will be back soon," said Yang Bin, a local football commentator.

Yang Shengtao, Party secretary of Zhongcheng township of Rongjiang, expressed gratitude for the support and resilience shown by the community.

"I want to say thanks to all who aided us. In China, we are not afraid of any storms or difficulties because we can overcome any challenge as long as we unite as one," Yang said, adding that he believes Cun Chao will rise again soon.