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Zhiyun School of Football

2025-03-03

Vision & Collaboration
Established through an innovative government-university-club tripartite model, the Zhiyun School of Football is a joint initiative by Nantong University, the Nantong Municipal Government, and Nantong Zhiyun Football Club. Founded in 2016 alongside the club’s establishment, it represents a pioneering platform for cultivating professional football talent in China.


Academic Structure

  • Research Centers:

    • Football Culture & Industry Research Center

    • Sports Psychology Intervention Center

    • Athletic Rehabilitation Research Center

    • Data Analytics Center

  • Interdisciplinary Integration:
    Leverages doctoral programs in Sports Medicine and master’s programs in Sports Science and Economic Management to enhance academic depth.


Faculty & Innovation

  • Faculty: 43 full-time academics, including 5 professors, 19 associate professors, and 13 PhD holders.

  • Global Expertise: Recruits renowned domestic and international football coaches and scholars to blend practical training with academic rigor.

  • Management Reforms: Implements innovative policies in personnel, finance, and asset management to support coaches and athletes.


Educational Philosophy
Guided by the principle “Exceptional Mentors Nurture Exceptional Talents”, the school adopts a holistic development strategy:

  • Four-Pillar Cultivation: Character Development, Growth, Expertise Cultivation, and Career Success.

  • Integrated Training: Combines ideological education, cultural studies, football drills, and hands-on skills.


Achievements & Impact

  • Academic Excellence:

    • 1 National First-Class Undergraduate Program.

    • Secured 12 national-level and 26 provincial/ministerial research grants.

    • Published 171 high-impact papers (CSSCI/SCI/SSCI) and 25 academic monographs.

    • Awarded 12 provincial/ministerial research prizes.

  • Competitive Success:

    • 5th Place in China League One (Second Tier), 2021.

    • 3rd Place in 2022, earning promotion to the Chinese Super League (CSL).

    • 14th Place in 2023 CSL, securing top-tier retention.

    • Nantong Zhiyun FC Achievements:


Global Ambition
The school aims to become a globally recognized football education hub, fostering talents with international competitiveness while driving the integration of football industry practices and academic innovation.