Kunshan, China
Sino-Foreign University Cup final DKU Leg officially kicks off on March 22
On March 22, the final leg of the 24-25 Sino-Foreign University Cup is officially launched at DKU. This sports event brought together athletes from leading Sino-foreign universities. Athletes from DKU, NYUSH, and the UNNC gathered in Kunshan for the ultimate showdown.
Group photo of participating athletes at the DKU Leg of the Sino-Foreign University Cup
At 9:00 AM, the opening ceremony officially commenced, bringing together athletes at the DKU Football field to celebrate this thrilling event. With the music, athletes proudly carry their school flag. The DKU cheerleaders, accompanied by the school mascot and athletes, made a grand finale entrance, igniting the energy and excitement of the crowd.
Athletes Step into the Opening Ceremony Venue
The ceremony continued with welcome speeches delivered by DKU’s John Quelch, Executive Vice Chancellor of DKU. John firstly welcomes all participants and teams for the participations. He notes, “This event not only brings the thrill of competition but also energizes our campus.” Finally, he shares his gratitude to Athletics Director Zarko Krkeljas and the whole athletics team for organizing the event.
Welcome Speech by DKU Executive Vice Chancellor John Quelch
Zarko Krkeljas extended a warm welcome to the visiting teams and spectators, highlighting the significance of sports in fostering international cooperation and cultural understanding. “This event is not just about competition,” he remarked. “It’s about community spirit and shared values. It also demonstrates the importance of athletics to our leadership, helping us advocate for greater support and resources.”
Speech by DKU Athletics Director Zarko Krkeljas
DKU Secured the Final Championship of 2024/25 SFUC
On March 23, the final leg of the 2024/25 Sino-Foreign University Cup concluded successfully at Duke Kunshan University after 3 Legs of intensive games, with DKU winning the final championship! The tournament featured 3 leading Sino-Foreign Universities and 6 sports: badminton, basketball, soccer, volleyball, table tennis, and tennis, with athletes from each university giving their all in pursuit of victory.
The DKU Athletics mascot cheers for the players.
The closing ceremony was held in the basketball arena and was hosted by the 24/25 chairman, PK, and vice chairman, Tony. They extended their heartfelt gratitude to all athletes and staff members for their dedication in the Sino-Foreign University Cup this year.
Sino-Foreign University Cup Closing Ceremony Scene
Zarko Krkeljas, Director of DKU Athletics, remarked, “Today’s competition has allowed visiting students and parents to see the energy of DKU, the support you show for each other, and how the DKU community comes together around shared values.” He also encouraged everyone to applaud the graduating seniors and reflected — Even though this is their last Sino-Foreign University Cup at DKU, the value we have built here will stay with them for life.
Joyful Moments at the Closing Ceremony
Finally, Scott MacEachern, DKU Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, delivered the final word. He stated, “The skills, attitude, and energy in this sports competition brought by the students here is really essential.” He emphasized that as a place of intellectual enlightenment, a university should encourage sports as an “alternative way” for students to use the skills they learnt not only by thinking in brain but also through physical activity.
DKU Volleyball Varsity Team Takes Medals
DKU student-athletes delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s competition, securing championship titles in 5 out of 9 sports. The university claimed gold medals in Men’s Football, Women’s Basketball, Badminton, Men’s Volleyball, and Women’s Volleyball, demonstrating DKU’s strength. Meanwhile, New York University Shanghai University won the women’s football, tennis and men’s basketball, University of Nottingham Ningbo China excelled in table tennis.
DKU Football Varsity Team Celebrates Championship Victory with Coach
Apart from the games, the wonderful halftime performances were equally eye-catching. The cheerleading squad was full of vitality, and the street dance club demonstrated the trendiness and beauty, adding a unique charm to the event. The mascot of DKU roamed around various competition venues, cheering on the athletes.
Halftime Performance by the DKU Cheerleaders
DKU Mascot Brings Spirit to the Closing Ceremony
The successful hosting of the Sino-Foreign University Cup not only demonstrated the outstanding competitive skills of the athletes from each school but also further promoted sports cultural exchanges and friendly relations between DKU and other universities. We are eagerly looking forward to the next event, to once again experience the passionate collision of youth and sports!
Game Highlights from the Sino-Foreign University Cup
Ready to Take on Your Own Challenge?
