The Sepak Takraw Association of Thailand is looking for a new coach after the SEA Games and has announced readiness to resume the sepak takraw league after a long absence.
Thana Chaiprasit, president of the Sepak Takraw Association of Thailand, gave an interview on various topics following the men's sepak takraw team missing out on the gold medal at the 2025 SEA Games hosted by Thailand, which was a disappointment for Thai sports fans and the association.
The Thai men's sepak takraw team in both the singles and team events missed out on all gold medals, prompting Thai sports fans to call for changes.
Thana said, "There definitely needs to be changes. The men's sepak takraw team has been a key part of the association for a long time, and this time we lost across the board. The women's team helped to salvage some pride. There were only six gold medals won. This is something the association will have to discuss and analyze the causes of this outcome."
"We will hold a meeting after the New Year to find the reasons. We appointed the team and manager specifically for the SEA Games, but for upcoming events, new appointments will be made. We will likely see changes in the selection of team managers and coaches going forward."
Regarding plans to reinstate the league, the president said, "I agree with that idea. We've had some discussions with the Sports Authority of Thailand and the National Sports Development Fund. Sepak takraw has not received support from these bodies for organizing the league for four years now. Additionally, the organization of the World Championships and King's Cup has not been funded for the same period. I have pointed out that many of our athletes have gone to play in the Malaysian league. Some have raised concerns about close relations with competitors, suggesting possible collusion, as rumors have circulated."