Ma Lin's new friends included such star players. Nowadays, sports stars are quite different from those in the past, who often had very low standards or liked to express political opinions, criticizing backward countries.
The stars in Ma Lin's circle were generally easier to get along with, valuing virtue like traditional Huaxia people and taking pride in being personable.
If someone was not good-natured, the coach, captain, and veteran players would subject them to a lot of criticism and education.
Especially since society now considers patience a virtue, enduring others' flaws and unfair treatment, and progressing through diligence and excellent character, is the most common way for ordinary people to become outstanding talents.
One reason for this situation is that life is now very affluent, everyone is in a good mood, and thus tolerance has increased.