High in the misty mountains of Sichuan, a cultural revolution is underway—and it involves lacrosse sticks. 🌄 In Mao County, part of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, young Qiang performers are literally rewriting tradition by pairing their iconic Shalang dance with… Olympic-grade sports gear? 🤯
With the "Great Aba Cup" Lacrosse Invitational around the corner, locals are blending centuries-old dance steps with the fast-paced energy of lacrosse. Imagine vibrant costumes accessorized with helmets, gloves, and those signature nets—all while keeping rhythm to ancestral beats. 🥍💥
"It’s like ‘Street Fighter’ meets ‘Mulan’—but make it sports," joked one spectator, capturing the vibe. The fusion highlights how China’s ethnic groups are reimagining heritage for Gen Z, proving tradition isn’t stuck in the past. 🕺✨
Why lacrosse? The sport’s global rise—and its Olympic status—has sparked interest across Asia. For Qiang youth, it’s a bridge between their roots and tomorrow’s opportunities. As one dancer put it: "Every pass we make honors our ancestors… and maybe wins a trophy!" 🏆
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Qiang dancers in Sichuan blend tradition with passion for lacrosse
cgtn.com