Chinese ice hockey veteran defies age to reach career peak

At 36, most athletes are winding down their careers. But Yu Baiwei, captain of China's women's ice hockey team, is unfazed by this notion.

"If anyone doubts my fitness, just watch me when I hit the ice," she said.

As the only team member born in the 1980s, Yu has been a competitive fixture for 20 years.

She made her national team debut at 17 and played in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, where China placed seventh, and led the squad to a ninth-place finish on home ice at Beijing 2022.

Yu Baiwei (R) of China vies with Klara Hymlarova of the Czech Republic during the women's ice hockey preliminary round Group B match between China and the Czech Republic at Wukesong Sports Center in Beijing, China, Feb. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

At the 2025 IIHF Women's World Championship Division I Group A, held in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen in April, the veteran was named China's best player.

LATE CAREER PEAK

"Most people think my prime was in my twenties," Yu reflected. "Actually, I think that I have been getting stronger and more skilled since 29."

The secret is self-discipline. Since then, Yu has barely taken a real off-season break. Back home in Harbin, she trained with male players to sharpen her skills and address her weaknesses, and also put in extra hours at the gym.

"I know the older I get, the harder I will bounce back from fatigue. That's why I can't afford to fall behind," she explained.

19-year-old goalkeeper Zhan Jiahui called Yu a role model. "She trains through discomfort, targets her weaknesses, and stays in peak condition. She's the oldest on the team, but still one of the best. She's inspired me so much."

"My mentality is wired for high-intensity competition," said Yu. "When I set a goal, I give it 120 percent. I just want to see how far I can go.

"Don't let the age define what you can achieve. If you have a dream, go for it. It's never too late."

PLAYING THROUGH PAIN

Yu has rarely been injury-free throughout her career. Chronic shoulder dislocations, a torn ligament in her left knee, and ankle damage are just a few entries on her long injury list.

"It's uncomfortable," she admitted, "but I've learned to live with it."

Ahead of Beijing 2022, she tore her left anterior cruciate ligament, a career-threatening injury. But Yu denied doctors' recommendation for surgery. Instead, she strapped on a knee brace, trained the surrounding muscles, and went back on the ice.

She hasn't taken the brace off since.

Time and again, she's chosen rehab over surgery, putting her national team duties above anything else. "Some people joke that I'm a medical miracle," she laughed.

In February's 2026 Winter Olympic qualifiers, with a shoulder injury limiting the use of her shooting arm, Yu managed to score against hosts Japan. The goal lifted her team's morale in a tough match.

"Pain wears you down," she admitted. "But once you've pushed through it, life becomes more fun."

A LEGACY BEYOND ICE

"Each stage of my career has brought new responsibilities," Yu said. "I'm lucky to have spent 20 years with this team, including two Olympics, it's a complete career."

Yet one goal remains for Yu: leading China back into the world's top eight. "Wearing the national jersey isn't just about pride - it's a responsibility. That belief is in my bones. And I want to pass it on."

As a player and assistant coach, Yu is helping build the team's future. China is currently going through a transitional period, with a new generation of players rising and veterans like Kong Minghui and Zhao Qinan holding the line.

For Yu, the path ahead is clear. "Whether I'm a player, a coach, or in any other role, I'll keep contributing to Chinese hockey," she said. "This sport has shaped my life. I want to help our team stand firm in the world."