In the lead-up to the 29th Party Congress of National Economics University (NEU) for the 2025-2030 term, a lively series of sports activities was recently held, attracting large numbers of NEU faculty and staff.

Leaders of the University and athletes participating in the series of sports activities pose for a commemorative photo

The series of sports activities, featuring table tennis, badminton, chess, Chinese chess, and pickleball, provided not only a healthy opportunity to improve physical fitness and strengthen solidarity but also an occasion for all faculty, staff, and students to look ahead to the University’s important political event.

From the very first days of their launch, the tournaments received an enthusiastic response from clubs. Competitions were organized systematically, professionally, and fairly, featuring many exciting and dramatic matches.

Table tennis, a sport requiring dexterity and quick reflexes, was among the competitions that attracted considerable spectator interest. This table tennis tournament was not only a contest of talent but also an opportunity for athletes to demonstrate perseverance and the determination to overcome challenges. Impressive rallies and tense matches created a lively and inspiring tournament atmosphere.

The table tennis tournament attracts large numbers of faculty and staff to compete and cheer on the players

Leaders of the University present awards and pose for a commemorative photo with athletes participating in the table tennis tournament

Equally thrilling, the badminton tournament also drew large numbers of faculty and staff. The matches were highly engaging and dramatic, drawing enthusiastic cheers from numerous spectators. The tournament offered athletes an opportunity to interact, learn from one another, and improve their health, while creating a sporting environment that brought together all members of the NEU community.

Leaders of the University present awards and pose for a commemorative photo with athletes participating in the badminton tournament

Meanwhile, mind sports such as chess and Chinese chess captivated spectators with the players’ composure, tactical thinking, and ability to stay “one move ahead.” Dramatic games, marked by careful calculation and clever strategies, offered spectators challenging yet highly enjoyable moments. These competitions gave lecturers an opportunity to demonstrate sharp thinking and strategic skills while creating a lively atmosphere for mind sports.

Leaders of the University present awards and pose for a commemorative photo with athletes participating in the chess and Chinese chess tournaments

In particular, the tournament in pickleball—a new sport included in the competitions for the first time—brought excitement and a fresh experience to players and spectators alike. With its simple rules yet strong tactical dimension, pickleball quickly won people over and shows promise of becoming an annual sports activity at the University.

Leaders of the University and athletes participating in the pickleball tournament pose for a commemorative photo

The badminton, table tennis, chess, Chinese chess, and especially pickleball tournaments were not only opportunities for sporting talent to shine but also occasions to strengthen solidarity and close ties. They also affirmed participants’ determination to work alongside the University’s Party Organization in renewing, building, and developing NEU into a leading university regionally and internationally.

Article and photos: Office of the Party Committee and Mass Organizations & Department of Communications

This is an automated translation. If you notice any errors, please contact the Department of Communications, National Economics University at phongtruyenthong@neu.edu.vn.