by Dames Alexander Sinaga

LUMAJANG, Indonesia, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- More than 1,000 residents swarmed into an open-air stadium surrounded by sugarcane fields in Purwosono, a village in Lumajang Regency in Indonesia's East Java Province, to watch the final of a volleyball competition on Thursday evening.

Initiated and organized by the Purwosono village administration, the tournament drew inspiration from the Village Super League in southwest China's Guizhou Province.

Village chief Hendrik Dwi Martono visited several Chinese villages in 2023 under a village chief program to learn about rural development, including those in Beijing, Zhejiang and Anhui.

Since returning home, Hendrik has maintained a strong interest in China's rural development practices. He later learned about the Village Super League, or Cun Chao, which originated in Guizhou's Rongjiang County, through social media and local news.

In 2023, the Village Super League became a nationwide sensation. Since then, the event has attracted visitors from around the world with activities such as weaving, embroidery and rice-field fish farming.

"The Village Super League is so amazing. It's just great to see soccer clubs representing villages compete professionally. It has a great spirit," Hendrik told Xinhua.

Feeling motivated, Hendrik organized a professional-level sports competition for volleyball teams from nearby villages. He said the tournament aims to boost the local economy, empower young people and strengthen ties with neighboring communities.

"We chose volleyball because the sport has long been popular here, and we're using an open tournament format," the 50-year-old village chief said, adding that more than 30 villages joined the championship.

Local resident Umi Kulsum was among the most enthusiastic supporters. She and her relatives rode motorcycles to the stadium early to secure seats. "It gets really crowded, so it's best to come early," she said.

The stadium buzzed with excitement as spectators cheered for their teams. Organizers allowed each team to hire up to two national players.

Umi suggested making the tournament an annual event, rotating hosts among the villages. "This tournament entertains not only our village, but also neighboring villages," she said.

Ari Wibowo, from a nearby village, attended most matches of the tournament held from October 15 to November 13. He praised the event for meeting national volleyball standards, including professional courts, equipment and certified referees from the country's federation.

"I love this tournament. The village worked hard to make it impressive. I'd definitely come again if they hold future tournaments," he said, expressing hope that young players might rise through the competition and turn professional.

The competition also provided economic benefits to villagers. Lailatul Rahma set up a snack stall selling chicken skewer sausages and tapioca balls.

"One evening my products sold out quickly, so I increased my stock the next day," said the 29-year-old.

Players also welcomed the initiative. Jeta Rona of the Artas Tempeh team said organizers kept the crowd engaged by hosting interactive activities for spectators before matches. "This is very distinctive. I have participated in various volleyball tournaments, and I can say that this one is very exciting," she said.

Ari Arfianto from MTG Jogotrunan said the tournament was well arranged, adding that a village volleyball league would be an important platform for discovering new talents.

"This tournament really shows cooperation and skill. It's important for us to maintain these elements to strengthen our village communities," he said.