Yifeng Shen: From Beijing 2022 bronze to new goals – and tiramisu – in Italy

When Yifeng Shen first watched Para ice hockey players glide across the ice, it was love at first sight.

“It was like watching eagles soar,” Shen recalled. “Graceful, fluid, and full of confidence.”

Now preparing for his second Paralympic Winter Games in Milano-Cortina, Chinese assistant captain Yifeng Shen enters the tournament with greater confidence, sharper skills, and a drive to uplift fans of all nations.

Shen’s journey began in 2015, when China intensified its push for winter sports after winning the bid for the Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Games. A year later, his local disabled persons’ federation began recruiting athletes. After passing the selection process, Shen was asked which sport he wanted to play.

“I didn’t hesitate,” he said. “I had watched an introductory video about the sport and was immediately drawn to it.”

Long before he ever picked up a stick, Shen had been quietly building resilience. As a student, he tried basketball, badminton, table tennis, and shot put in physical education classes, navigating sports in a wheelchair.

“I couldn’t keep pace as easily,” he said. “But I never complained. I focused on overcoming whatever stood in my way.”

That mindset has defined his career.

At Beijing 2022, Shen experienced one of the most emotional moments of his life during the bronze medal game against South Korea. After an accidental collision led to a major penalty, he was forced to sit out an entire period while the score remained tight.

“I felt desperate,” he said. “Watching from the penalty box was nerve-racking.”

But his teammates held firm. When Shen finally returned to the ice, smiling, China went on to secure a 4–0 victory and their first bronze medal on the Paralympic stage.

GOAL!⚡️

Senational skills from the one and only Yifeng Shen who doubles China's 🇨🇳 lead!

The 7th goal of the tournament for the 23-year-old!

🇨🇳 2-0 🇰🇷#WinterParalympics #Beijing2022 #ParaIceHockey @ParaIceHockey pic.twitter.com/gIHcZJz8Xt

— Paralympic Games (@Paralympics) March 12, 2022

Now, Shen hopes to build on that success while inspiring fans through what his team represents.

“I hope more people will see our story and witness this team of warriors fighting on the ice,” he said. “May this spirit encourage more people to face life’s challenges with courage.”

Shen is also eager to explore beyond the rink.

“I hope to have the chance to taste a wide variety of Italian dishes,” he said. “Including pasta, tiramisu, and more.”

He is also looking forward to experiencing the city’s cultural landmarks. 

“From the breathtaking Duomo di Milano to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, we want to see it all,” Shen said.

Fast Facts

Nickname: “Little Whirlwind” for his speed and versatility
Favourite Italian food: Pasta and tiramisu
Favourite pre-game ritual: Chanting with his teammates in the locker room
Teammate with the best style: Zhidong Wang