BEIJING, April 2 (Xinhua) -- China head coach Zhao Yong has set winning the Asian Women's Volleyball Championship as the team's top priority, with the aim of securing early qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.
"The Asian Championship is the most important event for us this year, as the title winner will qualify for the Los Angeles Games," Zhao said in a video interview released by the Chinese Volleyball Association (CVA) on Thursday. "We will conduct in-depth analysis of our main rivals: Japan, Thailand, South Korea and Vietnam, focusing on their tactics and roster changes."
Following the conclusion of the Chinese Women's Volleyball Super League on Wednesday, the CVA announced a 17-member roster for the team's first training camp, which is set to begin on Friday. Most players from last year's squad, including Wu Mengjie, Zhang Zixuan and Zhuang Yushan, will attend.
Veterans such as Zhu Ting, Gong Xiangyu, Li Yingying and Wang Yuanyuan are also included in this initial phase. The list also marks the return of setter Diao Linyu, a regular starter in the previous Olympic cycle.
"This is the first batch of players to be announced," Zhao explained. "Those still playing in overseas leagues will be evaluated later, depending on their schedules. Prominent veterans who have performed well domestically are being given time for physical recovery. Players deemed suitable will join the squad when needed."
"Li Yingying is undergoing rehabilitation in Tianjin. The team remains in close contact with her and is monitoring her progress. Based on her recovery, we will make a full assessment and adjust accordingly. Diao Linyu's return brings valuable experience and tactical flexibility. She will provide stability and help younger players grow up," he added.
China won nine of 12 preliminary matches at last year's Volleyball Nations League to reach the Finals. However, following an unexpected defeat by France in the round of 16 at the World Championships, Zhao emphasized the need for self-improvement in 2026.
"For our team, the primary focus must be on improving our own abilities. We aim to strengthen our offensive power and be more effective in scoring through attacks, blocks, and serves. At the same time, we will address our weaknesses through fundamental training," said Zhao, who took charge in April 2025.
Following is the training camp roster:
Dong Yuhan, Jin Jiabao, Chen Houyu, Wang Aoqian, Yang Shuming, Zhu Xingchen, Ni Feifan, Wu Mengjie, Tang Xin, Zhang Zixuan, Guo Zhongnan, Ji Yuxiao, Zhuang Yushan, Wang Mengjie, Li Chenxuan, Xie Shengyu, Diao Linyu. ■
