Club members train for about two hours after school each day, with the school providing venues and equipment free of charge.

Qin Jiayi, a student at the primary school, has been learning archery for two years. At the inaugural Jinan Youth Games this year, he won one gold and three silver medals. "This sport has made me braver and more attentive," Jiayi says.

Jiayi's success highlights the value of former athletes and coaches like Li, who are eager to find new opportunities in schools and start a new chapter in their careers.

An Shigang, principal of Jinxiucheng Primary School, says local authorities encourage primary and secondary schools to develop specialized sports programs and improve talent development mechanisms, creating better growth platforms for students with athletic potential.

Dedicated posts are being created for retired athletes, who must obtain teaching qualifications and complete pre-service training and psychological assessments before working in their positions.

Several primary and secondary schools in Jinan have recruited dozens of retired professional athletes who previously won titles in major competitions at home and abroad.

In addition to coaching school teams, these teachers also deliver lessons on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and recovery, organize various sports events, and guide campus sports clubs, further advancing the integration of sports and education.

"As more athletes come to work at schools, they create a star effect, which inspires students to develop a greater passion for sports and physical activities," An adds.