Loss of 'Spirit' Unacceptable

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, September 27, 2002

Loss of 'Spirit' Unacceptable

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China's women's volleyball team on Tuesday issued a letter of apology to its fans for having thrown two matches - in the preliminary and second rounds - during the recently concluded women's world championships in Germany.

The team did that to use to its advantage the tournament's format to ensure it faced less-competitive rivals in the elimination rounds.

But the team has blemished its image as a former world champion famed for its supreme technique and dauntless fighting spirit.

The team through its action showed disrespect for its rivals and distorted sportsmanship.

In a country where volleyball fans enjoyed in the 1980s the glory and respect earned by its women spikers, such deliberate losses are unacceptable.

"We can afford to lose the championship, but we cannot afford to lose the fighting spirit," commented many fans.

We are glad the team finally stood up and apologized. After all, the tournament ended a week ago.

The team's letter was sincere; the members' self-examination was to the point.

The team admitted it was wrong to have thrown the matches, and pledged not to give up matches in future tournaments.

The letter contradicted denials by a delegation spokesman when asked by reporters during the tournament whether the team had thrown matches.

Clearly understanding mistakes makes it easier for a person to get out mud and brace himself or herself up.

China's fans hope, and expect, the team to press on and win back what it has lost.

Of course, the nation's volleyball authorities must also undergo self re-examinations.

They should re-examine the management mechanism to ensure that such a shameful act won't reoccur.

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