Three big-ball headache

Although China has risen to be a world sports powerhouse, its recent performances in the three big-ball events - soccer, basketball and volleyball - have failed to inspire the public.

However, senior sports official claim measures are being taken to improve that situation.

"The decline of these events is very worrying. The biggest problem for all these team events is a shortage of reserves," said Cui Dalin, former deputy director of China's State General Administration of Sport.

"The general administration has started to adopt effective measures (to improve the situation)," Cui said.

China's men's and women's soccer teams failed to qualify for the London Olympics and the basketball teams will, at best, fight for position in the top eight at the Games. Even women's volleyball, which was once the benchmark of team sport in China, has fallen on lean times.

To improve the situation, Cui said the authorities have decided to set up youth group competitions for soccer, basketball and volleyball at the 12th National Games, which will be held next year in Liaoning province.

"The medal winners of these youth groups will earn three times more points than other events, and that will draw the attention of local sports authorities," said Cui.

"With such a policy, local sports bureaus will start to set up more youth programs and, if more young people start playing, the problem will gradually be solved."