Respect and understanding

    However, the public and the media unanimously embrace Lang with respect and understanding.

    "Lang knows the -Chinese Women's Volleyball Team well, so it is a challenge for the Chinese team that she is coaching the US team now," said Chen Jing, a member of the Chinese women's team. "But this can help to lift the sport to a higher level (by enhanced competition)."

    Lang's Chinese counterpart, Chen Zhonghe, said he would be glad to meet Lang on the court.

    "I respect Lang's decision. She is a respected volleyball player and coach and a mother," said Chen.

    Support and understanding also come from the general public.

    "It is a pride of China for Lang to become the new head coach of the US Women's Volleyball Team," said Zhang Hongliang, a taxi driver.

    Judy Zhou, a fan of Lang who worked for a public relations company, said she respected Lang's choice and will support her no matter which team she serves.

    A survey conducted by China's top website sina.com showed that a majority of people supported Lang's choice and thought it was an honor for her and the whole country.

    "Yao Ming entered the NBA because Yao needs the NBA to improve while Lang coaches the US team because they need Lang to lift their level," said Zhou.

    "It will promote exchanges in the field of sports and culture," said Xu Benli, an expert from the Shanghai Physical Education Institute.

    As China makes rapid progress in sports, international exchanges in the field of sports have been strengthened. Foreign athletes and coaches can be found on the football pitch, basketball courts and at the Go tables.

    China's athletes and coaches can also be found in the NBA, Britain's Premier League, South Korea's table tennis clubs and Australia's diving team.

(Source: Shanghai Star)