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Inaugural American football league in China to be contested in 6 cities

By Ma Yue | August 25, 2016, Thursday | Online Edition

China Arena Football League, the first professional American football league in China, is gearing up for its debut season, in six major cities, including Shanghai.

Also known as CAFL “Super Series,” the games will be held in October and November.

About 60 players from home and abroad will show off their running and kicking skills. Some of the American players will partner with their Chinese teammates in the new series — a great way to promote the sport on a bigger stage on the mainland.

After 15 games in Beijing, Dalian, Qingdao, Guangzhou and Shenzhen in October, the finals of the series — CAFL China Bowl — will be held at Shanghai’s Oriental Sports Center on November 5 and 6.

“I could not turn down the incredible experience of traveling to China, teaching and playing the game I love, and being able to soak up the local culture,” said wide receiver Collin Taylor, who will line up with the Beijing Lions in the series.

Jordan Mosley, a defensive lineman who will be playing with the Dalian Dragon Kings, will also be the ambassador of the sport.

“I always look forward to visiting new lands that owns excitement towards the sport we play,” said Mosley. “It will be a successful season, as well as the seasons ahead… For China, it’s an overdue chance to see professional football in a league format.”

For wide receiver Duane Brooks and quarterback J.J. Raterink, who will be playing for Guangzhou Power, it’s a chance to become trailblazers to promote the game they love.

“It will be a great opportunity for me to learn Chinese culture while giving away my knowledge about this game,” said Brooks. “Football has been a huge part of my life, taking me to places I could only dream of. I’m about to add China to the list.”

Raterink also expressed his wish to help build a fan base for the sport in the country.

“I am extremely excited to introduce this intense and exciting Arena Football League to a whole new culture. The game has given me life-time friends, and I can’t wait to see what positive impacts it will bring to the communities and cities in China,” said Raterink.   

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