
AUFT: From the Lecture Hall to the Football Field – "Be Intellectuals Who Play Football"
Football is not just a sport full of excitement and passion; it is also a stage where players showcase their talent, ambition, and relentless effort. At DNTU, the athletes of DNTU FC prove that they are not only fearless in facing tough challenges on the field but also dedicated students striving for excellence in their academic journey and personal growth beyond the sidelines. The seemingly contrasting images of a "football player" and an "intellectual student" blend together seamlessly, creating a perfect harmony.
"The Men on the Field" – Fierce, Passionate, and Full of Determination
When stepping onto the field, the players of DNTU FC are not just students but true warriors. Every pass, every tackle, and every shot reflects their determination, relentless effort, and burning desire for victory. They never shy away from challenges, whether it's fierce duels or nerve-wracking moments that decide the match's outcome.
These young men are always ready to give their all on the field. They may fall, but they never give up. For them, every match is not just about winning but also about proving their resilience, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to the colors of DNTU FC.
The players in DNTU FC jerseys give their all on the field.
Off the field, DNTU FC players return to their roles as passionate students.
In contrast to their intensity and dynamism on the field, when returning to the classroom, DNTU FC players transform back into students—intellectuals in crisp white shirts and school uniforms, attentively absorbing lessons from their professors. They understand that success in football requires more than just physical strength; it also demands deep knowledge of psychology, tactics, teamwork, and even management skills. Equipping themselves with knowledge not only helps them maintain peak performance on the field but also lays a solid foundation for a sustainable career beyond football. They have proven that to succeed in football, physical strength alone is not enough—self-improvement, intellectual growth, and strategic thinking are just as crucial.
The players of DNTU FC are clear proof that intellect and sports can go hand in hand.
On the field, you are resilient warriors. In the classroom, you are ambitious intellectuals. You continuously learn and improve yourselves, not only to shine on the pitch but also to build a strong future. Both identities—athlete and scholar—reflect a core aspect of DNTU students: striving for victory on the field and relentlessly working toward self-development. This not only changes the perception of football players but also enhances the value of education and personal growth, even for those pursuing a high-level career in sports.
Dr. Phan Ngoc Son, Chairman of the University Council of Dong Nai Technology University and Vice President of the Asian University Football Federation (AUFF), once shared: “Be intellectuals who play football.”
"I always want my team to play fair. An intellectual playing football must maintain the mindset of a scholar—not winning at all costs while disregarding student culture. Players should give their best, stay confident, and respect the referee's decisions; they should also show respect and sportsmanship toward their opponents and the audience, embracing the spirit of 'Play fair, Win fair, Cheer fair.'"
And the "warriors on the field" of DNTU FC—you have done just that. You are intellectuals who play football. You are not just a generation of talented players; you are proof of the sustainable value that comes from combining academics and passion.
Dr. Phan Ngoc Son – Chairman of the University Council (center) – along with the Board of Directors, met with and congratulated the DNTU team on becoming the representative of the Southeastern region to compete in the Final Round of the 3rd Vietnam Student Football Championship – 2025 THACO Cup.
Communications Department