World Rugby has recognized the "Union Cup" for world ranking points and extended congratulations on the Thai Rugby Association's 88th anniversary in Thailand's rugby development.
A major milestone for Thai and ASEAN rugby! World Rugby has approved the Union Cup for world ranking points and sent congratulations to the Thai Rugby Association on its 88th anniversary and new headquarters opening. Meanwhile, SEARF has reshuffled its management, appointing "Panithan" as the new secretary-general to replace "Sahaphol," who resigned, with member nations endorsing the change.
World Rugby sent a congratulatory message to the Thai Rugby Football Association on the official opening of its new office and the 88th anniversary of its founding. The message wished the association continued success in developing and strengthening rugby in Thailand for sustainable growth in the future.
Additionally, World Rugby has officially recognized the Union Cup, the ASEAN 15-a-side rugby championship, as a competition whose results count toward the World Rugby Rankings. This marks an important step for 15s rugby in Asia, as currently Asia Rugby lacks a continuous regional 15s tournament.
The Union Cup is an important event initiated by ASEAN countries under the leadership of Police Lieutenant Colonel Kulthan Prajuapmoa, president of the Southeast Asian Rugby Federation (SEARF). It provides an international competition platform for 15-a-side rugby players in Asia. Besides ASEAN members, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei, and Guam also participate, making the tournament a significant and ongoing contributor to rugby development in the region.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Kulthan Prajuapmoa expressed that it is a great honor and pleasure that World Rugby recognizes Thailand’s 88th anniversary and the significance of the Union Cup, which he initiated as SEARF president, allowing participating teams to earn world ranking points. This is very positive news for ASEAN rugby.
At the same time, Police Lieutenant Colonel Kulthan acknowledged the resignation of Mr. Sahaphol Pholpathapee as SEARF secretary-general. Mr. Sahaphol told him he wishes to focus on his role as vice president of the Thai Rugby Association, overseeing international affairs, and to support Mr. Panithan in gaining experience as SEARF secretary-general, even if only for a short term. Kulthan agreed with this and noted that Mr. Sahaphol is currently vice president of the Thai Rugby Football Association. An official announcement will be made to member countries soon.
At the SEARF executive committee meeting, members acknowledged Mr. Sahaphol’s resignation as secretary-general and unanimously appointed Mr. Panithan Prajuapmoa as the new SEARF secretary-general.
At this occasion, SEARF member representatives expressed their gratitude to Mr. Sahaphol Pholpathapee for his dedication, leadership, and contributions as the first honorary secretary-general. They praised his sacrifice and commitment to advancing rugby development in the region despite many responsibilities.
Member nations expressed regret at Mr. Sahaphol’s departure from the secretary-general role but respected his decision and expressed confidence that his commitment to supporting rugby will continue. They also congratulated Mr. Panithan Prajuapmoa on his appointment and look forward to jointly advancing rugby development in ASEAN.
Additionally, SEARF members thanked Mr. Sahaphol again for his friendship, dedication, and support of rugby in the region. They wished him success in all future endeavors and hope he will continue to play an important role in the ASEAN rugby family.