1995-96 National Women's Team

Pacific Rim Championship

China burst onto the international scene in Finland at the 1992 Women's World Championship after beating Japan at the Asian Qualifying Tournament. The Chinese squad placed fifth at their first world event, and at their second attempt in 1994, they lost to Finland 8-1 for the bronze medal.

All of the players are stationed in Harbin where they are able to practice on a daily basis. Competition is scarce, however, but the popularity of the game cannot be denied. At a recent game against Japan, over 9,000 spectators were present.

At the 1995 Pacific Women's Championship, they demonstrated a great improvement in skill, challenging the USA and Canada, and forcing the Canadians to a shoot-out win in the semi-finals.

In preparation for the 1996 Pacific Women's Championship, China claimed another Asian Games title at the beginning of February defeating Kazakhstan 13-0 and Japan 9-3.

The Chinese come into this year's event with virtually an identical squad from 1995. From their 20-player roster from a year ago, only three changes were made, and coaches Yao Naifeng and Zhang Zhinan also return behind the bench.