Was my reaction when I saw some kids playing soccer in a field next to the river. This is because unlike in America where there is organized youth leagues for every sport under the sun, Taiwan doesn't really have organized sports.
Most recreational leagues are for adults. It's extremely rare for schools to have their own sports teams. Some high schools will have official school teams but those are usually only for baseball or basketball, depending on where the school is located. Universities don't really have sports teams. Most organized sports for younger people are just unofficial school teams from various high schools and universities.
So when it comes to children, they are kind of left out. But there is a cultural reason behind this as well. In taiwan teamwork and social skills aren't really encouraged. If anything you are taught that the other people in your class are your competition as you all strive to obtain the best scores. Also a kid's job is to study, so their after school activity is going to a "cram school" for another six hours after their normal school.
This is why I was so shocked to see these kids playing organized soccer. Granted all these kids look like they are not yet in first grade, so perhaps that's why they are allowed to play. Once they hit elementary school it will be cram school after school each day, and then all day on Saturday. Whoever said that kids have it better than adults, obviously had never been to Taiwan.
