Chinese youngsters in hockey heaven

LAUSANNE－Having first picked up a hockey stick three years ago, Zhang Xinyue can't quite believe she's already chasing a gold medal in the sport at the Winter Youth Olympic Games.

On Tuesday, Zhang and her "Black" team advanced to the final of the mixed 3-on-3 competition thanks to a victory over "Team Brown".

In order to give developing hockey nations a chance to play in high-level competitions, the International Ice Hockey Federation and the International Olympic Committee have introduced the 3-on-3 event at the Lausanne Games.

"It's the first time for Chinese ice hockey players to participate in the Youth Olympic Games, and I am proud of be part of it," said Zhang.

"I've never previously played 3-on-3 but I am really enjoying it. It's so fast and exciting and just a lot of fun.

"Playing the final means a lot to me and my teammates. I hope I can win the gold and show it to my family and friends back home."

China's hockey squad at the Lausanne Games is comprised of one boy and four girls, who were all selected by the IIHF's sport department based on a series of skills tests conducted by the Chinese Ice Hockey Association.

Teaming up with 12 other players from different countries and regions, the Chinese youngsters have also been enjoying themselves off the rink.

"My English is not very good, so I have to use a translation app to communicate with my teammates," said female player Zhang Shuqi.

"But language is not a problem－my teammates taught me how to dance and we dance together!"

While Zhang was busy making new friends, compatriot Nie Xinrui was catching up with old acquaintances.

Nie, who represented China at the 2020 IIHF Ice Hockey Under-18 Women's World Championship, saw a familiar face in her "Red" team.

"Beatrice Storesund from Norway is my best friend in this team," said Nie.

"We met each other when we played the world championship in Poland. We had a lot of fun this time."