Taiwanese Baseball Stars’ Brief Military Service: A Unique Twist on National duty
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Two prominent Taiwanese baseball players, Xu Ruoxi and liu Jihong, recently completed a 12-day military service stint, a unique requirement for many Taiwanese citizens. The brief period of service, taken during the post-season break, offered a glimpse into the intersection of athletic careers and national obligations.
Both players emerged from their service sporting freshly shaved heads, a common experience for new recruits. Despite the short duration, their time in uniform wasn’t without its interesting moments. Xu Ruoxi recounted a humorous incident: “Sir, they came to see me on the 2nd or 3rd day, so I lived a little more comfortably.We all said, remember to vote for us in the All-Star Game.”
The unexpected celebrity status even extended to autograph requests. Xu Ruoxi revealed that a superior officer sought his autograph just three days into his service. He cleverly used the prospect to promote his candidacy for the upcoming All-Star Game.
Liu Jihong’s experience was equally memorable. He brought along his own training equipment, a move that, according to him, made the security check surprisingly easy.”Sir, just…oh, it’s better for baseball players,” he quipped, describing his initial bag check, which was filled with baseballs, maracas, resistance bands, and other training tools. His squad leader, he added, was understanding and even allowed him time for his specialized workouts.
The recognition extended beyond their own unit. Liu Jihong shared that he signed autographs for fellow soldiers, including one who bore a striking resemblance to another player, prompting the comment, “It felt like they saw Ou Jin serving as a soldier.” He also received a request to sign a Dragons jersey from a fellow soldier who was a fan of the team.
After their service, the team staff treated them to a celebratory fried chicken dinner. Xu ruoxi expressed his eagerness to return home for a proper meal, admitting to having gained two kilograms during his time in the army due to plentiful food portions. “it’s so sharp, your head,” Liu Jihong commented on xu Ruoxi’s new haircut, adding a lighthearted touch to the end of their unique military experience.
This brief military service highlights the unique cultural context in Taiwan,where even high-profile athletes must fulfill their national service obligations. While the experience was short,it provided a memorable anecdote for these baseball stars,showcasing the blend of national duty and athletic pursuits.
Taiwanese Baseball Stars and Military Duty: A Balance Between Fame and National Service
Taiwanese society emphasizes national service for its citizens, including high-profile athletes.Recently, two prominent baseball players, Xu Ruoxi and Liu Jihong, completed their brief mandatory service, providing a glimpse into the unique experience of balancing athletic careers with national obligations.
interview with Dr. Chuang Ming-Feng, Professor of Sports Culture and Society at National Taiwan Sport University
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com: Dr. Chuang, thank you for joining us today. The recent military service of xu Ruoxi and Liu jihong has generated a lot of interest.Could you shed some light on the significance of mandatory military service in Taiwan, especially for athletes like them?
Dr. Chuang Ming-Feng: Certainly. Military service is a cornerstone of taiwanese society, born from a long and complex history. For all Taiwanese men, it’s a deeply ingrained rite of passage, fostering a sense of shared responsibility towards national defense. Even individuals with high public profiles, like professional athletes, aren’t exempt from this obligation.
Senior Editor: How does this mandatory service typically impact the careers of athletes?
Dr. Chuang Ming-Feng: It can be a significant disruption, especially for athletes at the peak of their careers. 12 days might seem short, but it can interrupt crucial training schedules and team dynamics. However, many taiwanese athletes view it as a necessary duty, a way to contribute to their country and gain valuable life experiences beyond their sport.
Senior Editor: The article mentions that these particular players received a somewhat diffrent experience due to their celebrity status. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. Chuang Ming-Feng: Taiwanese society has a strong affinity for its sports stars. In this case, Xu Ruoxi and Liu Jihong’s fame seemed to follow them into the barracks. Their stories about being recognized by fellow soldiers, even receiving autograph requests, highlight this unique dynamic.It speaks to the intersection of celebrity culture and national identity in Taiwan.
Senior Editor: Do you see a shift in attitudes towards athletes and their military service in Taiwan?
Dr. Chuang Ming-Feng: I wouldn’t say there’s a dramatic shift, but there’s definitely a growing conversation. Some argue for exemptions for elite athletes to maximize their potential on the international stage. Others maintain that national service is paramount, regardless of profession. It’s a complex debate reflecting broader discussions about social responsibility, national security, and individual aspirations in Taiwanese society.
Senior Editor: thank you so much for sharing your insights, Dr. Chuang. Your expertise has certainly illuminated this interesting aspect of Taiwanese culture.
