Players compete in the opening match of the 2026 Nantong Amateur Soccer League. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 2026 Nantong Amateur Soccer League, known as the "Tongchao", kicked off on Oct 7 at the Nantong Yangtze River Sports Park, bringing together soccer enthusiasts from across the city for a celebration of grassroots sport.

Unlike professional competitions, the Tongchao features players from local youth academies, school teams and the amateur football community. They are mostly high school students, office workers, self-employed individuals and grassroots workers. Once they pull on their new jerseys, they become tenacious warriors on the pitch.

In the afternoon session, Hai'an defeated Qidong 4-1, while the Nantong Economic and Technological Development Area (NETDA) edged Tongzhou Bay 2-1. The evening session saw Chongchuan overcome Rudong 3-2, while Haimen draw 1-1 with Tongzhou.

Spectators cheer for their respective teams. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Shen Yue, a 14-year-old player for NETDA who trains in Shanghai, said he was delighted to return home to compete. Chen Jingnan, who contributed to Hai'an's victory with a solid goal, credited his team's unity and hard work.

Spectators included longtime fans and young players alike. Mr Tai, a local resident, drove to the riverside with some friends to cheer on the NETDA team. Gao Shuyan, a primary school student, attended with his father. "The level of play is higher than I expected," his father said.

The league features nine teams, with a five-round regular season comprising 16 matches, followed by knockout stages. The next round is scheduled for Oct 11.