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Players smash their bowls after drinking rice wine in the Shaoxing Rice Wine Town on April 25. [Photo/Tide News]

The 2025 China Softball League launched a carnival event in the Shaoxing Rice Wine Town on April 25. 

The league signed a strategic agreement with the town, aiming to link competitive sport with cultural tourism.

The day began with athletes boarding Shaoxing's traditional boats, taking in local performances, and attending a send-off ceremony that echoed historical customs. At the heart of the ritual. Players drank rice wine and smashed their bowls — a gesture drawn from old military traditions meant to signal resolve and unity.

Xie Yue of the national women's team said the ceremony added weight to their mission. "It wasn’t for show. It gave us focus," she said. Head coach Tang Changdong praised the setting, calling it both practical and inspiring. "Shaoxing has excellent facilities, deep roots, and a community that welcomes you. It makes a difference."

The town, known for centuries of wine-making, is pushing to tie its cultural identity to sport. Shaoxing officials see the event as a way to boost sports tourism and show that tradition can share a stage with competition.

Since the inaugural season in 2022, the China Softball League has been held in Shaoxing its home for the fourth consecutive year. After being left out of the 2024 Paris Olympics, softball is set to make its return at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.