Cultural and Artistic Reformation Activity – Nine Square Grid Ball Throwing Competition

To encourage inmates to develop wholesome leisure activities, enhance their physical and mental well-being, foster a sense of honor and teamwork, and inspire a positive, striving spirit, the institution specially organized a recreational activity for inmates—the “Nine square grid Throwing Competition”—on February 10, 2026. A total of 19 teams, comprising 38 inmates, registered for the competition. The atmosphere at the event was lively, and the competition was both intense and orderly.

The competition was conducted in teams of two. Each participant was given five throwing attempts, with scores calculated based on the numbers of the boards knocked down. The combined total score of both team members determined the final rankings. While the rules appeared simple, the contest in fact tested the participants’ concentration, stability, and on-the-spot judgment. Inmate A liang(pseudonym), shared his reflections, noting that the competition helped him realize that “direction is more important than strength.” If one relies solely on brute force when throwing, the ball often misses the target; only by calmly adjusting the angle and force can one achieve an accurate hit. He reflected that this insight closely mirrors his own life experience—at first, he worked diligently and followed the rules, earning a modest but stable income. Later, however, in his eagerness for quick success, he went astray and paid a heavy price for a moment of poor judgment. Through the competition, he came to understand anew the importance of steadiness and self-discipline, recognizing that life is like throwing a ball—each attempt requires careful consideration.

Section Chief Wen Minnan stated that the spirit embodied in the nine-square grid game is much like the journey of Japanese professional baseball pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who has played in the United States. Although Yamamoto did not possess particularly outstanding physical stature, he achieved remarkable success in Japan’s professional baseball league through rigorous self-discipline and years of fundamental training. He repeatedly earned the highest honors for pitchers and successfully advanced to compete on a higher-level stage. His success was not achieved overnight, but was the result of daily repetition, precise control, and a steadfast commitment to detail. This mirrors the focus and stability emphasized in the nine-square grid throwing competition—only by building a solid foundation, adjusting one’s steps and rhythm, can one perform consistently at critical moments. He encouraged the inmates to emulate this spirit and to understand that success comes from sustained effort and continuous self-improvement, rather than luck or impulsiveness.

After several exciting rounds, the competition concluded successfully amid an atmosphere that blended both joy and tension. The first-, second-, and third-place teams were determined, and prizes were awarded in recognition of their achievements. The activity not only allowed inmates to relax and refresh their minds and bodies but also subtly conveyed the important value of “perseverance.” Just like in life, as long as one is willing to invest effort continuously and practice repeatedly, even a slow start can eventually lead to great results, paving the way toward a bright future of one’s own.

The institution will continue to organize diverse educational activities and competitions to help inmates cultivate positive interests and sound character. The hope is that, upon returning to society, they can face a new chapter in life with greater maturity and stability, becoming the true winners of their own lives.