"When opportunity comes, you must seize it." This phrase perfectly describes Sarah Ankomah, a 17-year-old Thai-Ghanaian setter who is currently the most talked-about figure in Thai volleyball. Her impressive play caught Coach Ott's eye, leading to her early inclusion in the senior national team camp despite her young age.
The 180-centimeter-tall girl from Suranaree Wittaya School did not get here by luck. Her success is the result of years of hard work starting from elementary school. She began playing volleyball in fourth grade, took it seriously in fifth and sixth grades, and steadily progressed through Thailand’s competitive volleyball development system.
Many sports fans may recognize her from an early age through the Super 10 tournament, where Sarah used her volleyball skills to open doors for education and support her family. This was the starting point for this “gem” who is now beginning to shine brightly.
Her volleyball journey is truly remarkable.
- Elementary: Lamplaimat Kindergarten School (made her youth debut)
- Lower secondary: Bodindecha (Sing Singhaseni) School
- Club: Previously played for Supreme TIP Chonburi-E.Tech
- Currently: Key player for Suranaree Wittaya School
Her breakthrough achievement came at the 7HD 2025 Sports Championship, where as an attacking setter she helped the “Korat girls” deliver a fierce performance, notably defeating Bodindecha 3-0 in sets. This match marked her full emergence on the big stage.
An interesting aspect of her story is that she is the younger sister of “Hum” Napadet Pindee, a player for the Thai men's national team, underscoring the strong athletic lineage in her family.
However, the path to the senior national team has not been without challenges. Sarah openly admitted to feeling stressed by criticism, especially remarks that "others are better." Instead of retreating, she chose to use this as motivation.
“I know there are better players, but since the coach has chosen me, I have to do my best,” she said simply, reflecting the mindset of an athlete committed to growth.
Although she has advanced to the senior national team, Sarah remains grounded. She focuses on taking things day by day, learning from senior teammates, and steadily developing her skills.
The name “Sarah Ankomah” may be just the beginning. If she maintains her form and attitude, the Thai volleyball scene is set to gain another genuine talent very soon.