2026 DKU Athletics Awards Recap | Beyond the Game, A Celebration of Us - Athletics

Kunshan, China – April 27

Applause, anticipation, and a shared sense of pride filled the AB Ballroom on April 27 as the DKU community came together for the 2026 DKU Athletics Awards.

开幕词

Dean of Student Experience-Christopher Van Velzer

Christopher talks about the true value of DKU’s campus sports experience. He states that taking part in sports teams is priceless: students gain personal growth while also contributing to the DKU community.

He mentions team sports bring together students with different backgrounds and views. Players go through hard training, tight schedules, busy study life and away games. They learn to compromise, support one another, push themselves hard, and take responsibility for both themselves and their teammates, which is a unique and precious experience at DKU.

The whole campus takes pride in student athletes. Fans share their efforts and struggles, cheer for them sincerely, and benefit a lot from their spirit and teamwork.

Christopher also honors senior athletes. As one of the early generations of DKU, they have built and led sports teams, shaped the school’s sports culture, and left a valuable legacy. He expresses deep gratitude and best wishes to the graduating seniors, acknowledging their great contributions to making DKU a better university.

Director of Athletic Department-Zarko Krkeljas

Zarko points out senior student-athletes spend at least 560 hours on practice over four years, plus numerous games and trips. Instead of only focusing on becoming better players, athletes gain leadership, communication and conflict-solving skills through long-term training.He shares the idea that people, relationships and careers will regress without constant growth and practice.

He also reviews DKU’s amazing athletic development over eight years, with many teams and students achieving great success in regional, European and international competitions.He asks the school sports department to keep improving standards and encourages graduating seniors to reflect on their growth from sports, not just keep memories.

He also reminds underclassmen to cherish the athletic experience and strive for self-improvement.At last, he thanks the seniors, wishes them well, and hopes undergrads will keep working hard for better achievements next year.

As a proud DKU tradition, the Athletics Awards honor not only achievements on the field, but also the bonds, leadership, and dedication that shape the athletic community. Year after year, the event continues to bring together student-athletes, student staff, and supporters—creating moments that leave a lasting mark on the identity of DKU.

DKU 移动计划

Presented by Senior PE Instructor Bingfang Li

Group photos of DKU Moves Awardees

Commitment & Consistency Award

Mengtian Chen

Most Diverse Engagement Award

Jinhua Li

Student Staff Awards

Group photos of award-winning student staffs

Presented by Athletics Assistant Director

Peter Zhao

Sports Complex Associate Of The Year

Hongliang Li

Climbing Wall Associate Of The Year

Doston Rustamov

Event Associate Of The Year

Maocheng Xiao

Presented by Athletics Admin Coordinator

丁士森

Media Associate Of The Year

Annie Tong

Recognition of Graduating Seniors

A particularly moving highlight of the evening was the recognition of graduating senior student-athletes. As they took the stage, sharing stories of perseverance, growth, and camaraderie, the room was filled with both laughter and emotion.

Their journeys—shaped by early morning practices, tough competitions, and lasting friendships—have become part of the foundation of DKU Athletics. Their legacy will continue to inspire those who follow.