On November 2nd, the BASIS International & Bilingual Schools China Athletic League (BIBS•CAL) held Southern and Northern Conference tournaments. These events brought together over 400 student-athletes from BASIS International & Bilingual Schools campuses across China for a day filled with energy, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.
Students competed with passion and determination from the Southern Conference at BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen to the Northern Conference hosted by BASIS International School Nanjing. Whether on the football field, the volleyball court, or cheering from the sidelines, the tournaments celebrated athletic excellence, teamwork, and the joy of friendly competition.
Southern Conference Highlights
With the addition of BASIS Bilingual School Guangming (BBGM), this year’s Southern Conference brought together five participating campuses—BASIS International School Guangzhou, BASIS International School Park Lane Harbour, BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen, BASIS Bilingual School Guangming, and BASIS International School Shenzhen—for an unforgettable day of soccer, volleyball, and cheerleading.
Over 110 football players and 120 volleyball and cheerleading students competed, energized by a vibrant atmosphere and colorful decorations. The arena came alive with spirited performances from the BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen cheerleading team, while volleyball players battled on the court, supported by dedicated teachers and staff. The joy of competition and the friendships forged through sports were on full display.
On the high school volleyball court, BASIS International School Shenzhen’s boys’ team claimed the championship title with a powerful combination of defense, offense, and teamwork. Similarly, BASIS International School Guangzhou’s girls’ volleyball team secured victory with exceptional coordination and clever tactics.
The middle school football matches at Xiangmi Sports Center were equally thrilling. BASIS International School Park Lane Harbour’s boys’ team displayed tactical brilliance and determination to achieve their well-deserved championship win. BASIS International School Shenzhen’s girls’ team showcased unwavering perseverance, pushing their limits to secure the championship in their division.
Each competition reflected the fighting spirit and camaraderie of BASIS International & Bilingual Schools students. From quick saves and precise blocks in volleyball to strategic counterattacks on the football field, these young athletes demonstrated the essence of sportsmanship.
Northern Conference Highlights
BASIS International School Nanjing hosted the Northern Conference, which welcomed over 200 athletes and staff from BASIS International & Bilingual Schools campuses in Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu, and Wuhan. This year’s tournament featured volleyball games and football matches, providing a platform for athletes to demonstrate their skill, sportsmanship, and determination.
On the volleyball court, BASIS International School Hangzhou’s girls’ team claimed the championship title through seamless teamwork and precision, while BASIS International & Bilingual Schools Chengdu’s boys’ team impressed with their grit and tactical excellence, earning first place.
The football field was no less exciting. BASIS International School Hangzhou’s girls’ team delivered a stellar performance, securing first place with a strong defense and well-coordinated attacks. In the boys’ division, BASIS International & Bilingual Schools Chengdu’s team showcased their strategic prowess, celebrating a decisive victory in the final match.
Following a day packed with thrilling matches, BASIS International School Nanjing hosted a vibrant closing ceremony where athletes came together to celebrate their accomplishments, cheering not only for their teammates but also for competitors from other schools. The awards honored their hard work and dedication, fostering an atmosphere of pride and mutual support.
Coach’s Corner
Coaches reflected on the remarkable efforts of their teams:
- “Our MS girls’ football team had a fantastic showing at the BASIS network tournament! Despite facing challenges with limited players, they secured second place, showcasing their incredible skills and teamwork. In a thrilling match, they even scored a resounding 6-0 victory. We’re incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication!”
—Joy Chen
Middle School & High School Girls Football Coach
BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen- “As we gathered together before our first game, a solemn silence fell over the team huddle. Taking the time to reflect on their first season together, and everything that they have accomplished, the boys had one goal in mind — to bond together and have fun. And that they did. We, as their coaches, couldn’t be prouder of the leadership and camaraderie they showed through the whole tournament, not only representing the team, but BBSZ as our future ambassadors.”
— Matthew Koo
Middle School & High School Boys Volleyball Coach
BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen- “The MS Boys football team went into this competition with high hopes after finishing 2nd in the league, the boys knew that the competition would be tough but approached the games with the right attitude. Unfortunately, after two narrow defeats 1-0 and 3-2, the title was already out of reach. However, the boys showed heart and managed to get a 4-1 win before finishing 4th in the league table for the tournament.”
— Daniel White
Middle School & High School Boys Football Coach
BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen- “The girls played volleyball in the BIBS·CAL tournament with incredible effort and determination. They displayed exceptional teamwork, communication, and skill on the court. Their passion for the game was evident in every play, as they fought hard for every point and never gave up. The girls showed great sportsmanship, cheering each other on and lifting each other up after every point. Despite facing tough competition, their relentless effort was evident in every rally. The experience was not just about competition but also about growth, teamwork, the joy of playing together, and what needs to be improved in future games.”
— Joanna Zawadzka
Middle School & High School Girls Volleyball Coach
BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen
Looking Ahead
The BIBS•CAL tournaments were a powerful reminder of the joy and growth that sports bring to students’ lives. From fierce rivalries to friendships formed off the field, these events celebrated more than just competition—they highlighted the essence of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance.
With basketball, swimming, track and field, and more tournaments planned for January and March, BASIS International & Bilingual Schools students will have even more opportunities to shine. These young athletes carry the spirit of BIBS•CAL forward, embracing the love of sports and the courage to pursue their dreams.
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