A University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) alumnus has led the first ultimate club from Chinese mainland to compete at the 2026 World Masters Ultimate Club Championships (WMUCC), marking a milestone for the sport’s development in China.
Xue Zhixing, a 2009 graduate in International Business Management and now Secretary General of the Asia Oceanic Flying Disc Federation, led Beijing NAJA Master to the world championships in Nottingham, UK. The tournament brings together more than 150 teams from 27 countries and represents the highest level of international competition for masters ultimate players.
Xue’s journey in the sport began at UNNC in 2005, when British lecturers introduced ultimate to campus. Inspired by its values of teamwork and respect, he co-founded one of China’s earliest university ultimate clubs before launching Yikun Discs, China’s first professional ultimate company, while still a student.
“UNNC’s philosophy of Engage, Participate, Excel encouraged me to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom,” said Xue. “It gave me the confidence to turn a university hobby into a lifelong career.”
UNNC’s international environment has also played a key role in developing ultimate talent. Since 2019, numerous students and alumni have represented China at international competitions, including the country’s first official national ultimate team and youth national squads. Xue’s leadership at the World Masters Ultimate Club Championships reflects both his own achievements and the University’s long-standing commitment to providing students with the opportunities, global outlook and practical experience to excel on the international stage.
Published on 07 July 2026