Players on China's national soccer team will walk onto the soccer pitch brandishing red scarves in an attempt to draw more attention to youth soccer leagues in 2013.

According to the Chinese Football Association (CFA), multiple efforts will be made to promote the development of youth soccer over the coming year.

"We want to attract more children to the sport," a CFA official said.

Men's soccer has become a national disappoint for many Chinese, and while numerous factors have led to the sport's decline, many believe a lack of interest at youth levels has played a considerable role in sidelining the once-popular sport.