Zhao Yong Appointed Head Coach of China Women's Volleyball Team

Zhao Yong has been appointed as the head coach of the Chinese women's volleyball team, with the objective of returning the team to the Olympic podium by the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Historically successful, China has won Olympic gold medals in 1984, 2004, and 2016, but they finished fifth in the 2024 Paris Games after losing to Turkey in the quarter-finals. Zhao, who previously led the women's team to gold at the World University Games and the girls' team to victory in the under-17 world championship, is recognized for his resilience and team management skills. His appointment follows the dismissal of Cai Bin, emphasizing a shift towards revitalizing the team's competitive edge. Authorities, including Lai Yawen from the General Administration of Sport, have expressed confidence in Zhao’s capabilities and work ethic. This leadership change is seen as a crucial step towards restoring China’s status in women's volleyball on the global stage.