Lai remembers one team member who he coached for two years but never exchanged a word with. After winning 10 medals in a national competition, the introverted girl walked straight to Lai and put all the medals around his neck. Then, she told Lai that she was very happy. It was the first time she had talked to her coach in two years, and Lai was too stunned to speak. "The success boosted their confidence," Lai says. "A person with confidence is more likely to have a promising future."

Many students at the primary school had never been on a plane, although the school is located near Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. The jump rope program provides them a chance to go abroad and compete with their peers from around the world.

Over the past decades, the young ropers have traveled to several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and Norway. Jump rope has broadened their horizons and allowed them to see a larger world.

Rope-skipping has not only changed the life of the students but also the destiny of the school. "A decade ago, Qixing Primary School used to be among the most unprivileged schools, but now it's the top school in town," Lai says.

With its rising fame, the school has garnered a greater level of public attention. With the support of the government, it has extended its campus, restored the existing buildings and upgraded its equipment while retaining distinguished jump rope-themed elements, for example, long and colorful ropes decorating the trees on campus.

Nevertheless, what hasn't changed over the years is Lai's original aspiration to reinvigorate rural education.

In 2022, he was awarded the national May Fourth Medal for his contribution to physical education.

"Children are the future of the country and the hope of the nation," Lai says.

"I hope the effort I've put into physical education can inspire and benefit children in rural areas."

Contact the writer at huangxuemeng@21stcentury.com.cn