Pornpun Koetpragart revealed the story behind the Thai women's volleyball team winning the 2026 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship. She admitted that the whole team prayed with palms together before the matches, following Coach Aot Kiatphong Ratchatkriangkrai's invitation. She also explained the origin of the viral 'Cha Cha Cha' clip that helped transform pressure into smiles. She emphasized that their Asian Games goal is to bring home a medal.
On 3 Sep 2026 at the Government House, Pornpun Koetpragart, captain of Thailand's women's national volleyball team, spoke about their success in winning the 2026 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship. She noted that before the competition, the team united in praying with palms together in the athletes' dormitory. Coach Kiatphong Ratchatkriangkrai, known as Coach Aot, initiated this practice. Although the team has skill, they recognized the need to strengthen their mental state and invoke faith in the sacred, as physical ability alone is not enough—they also need psychological support.
Pornpun Koetpragart further said that during the matches, they had to accept that the opponent's primary hitter was very tall and their blocks were impenetrable. From video footage, the opponents could hit the ball over their blocks. However, based on training theory, they expected to allow the opponent to successfully hit about 10 balls, but only 1 or 2 would score points. After that, the ball would be blocked by their own hands. They trusted this approach.
"According to theory, it is difficult for anyone to score 10 points hitting the same spot repeatedly," Pornpun said. When asked about a point in the match when Thailand's score lagged far behind the opponent, she explained that in that set, knowing the large gap and the energy needed to catch up, and since the match was still ongoing with the sets tied 1-1, they chose to conserve strength to fight in the next set.
"During one part of the match involving a challenge with the phrase 'Cha Cha Cha,' I initially was unaware because I was substituted out and only encouraged the reserves to keep cheering. Later, I saw the clip on social media and found it charming. It reflects Thai culture where they bring out everything they have. Playing under pressure causes stress, but playing as volleyball players instinctively and enjoying the game is important. The phrase 'Cha Cha Cha' was cute and funny, and everyone smiled."
"At one point when the opponent's top hitter was moved to the back row, we believed we could definitely compete with their front-row players because we have key weapons such as Pimpichaya Kokram (Beam), Thaddaw Nukhajang (Thaddaw), Chatchu-on Moksri (Bumbim), and Sasipaporn Janthawisut (Omsin). Watching the game, we knew which team would score the point."
"When asked how this win after 10 years unlocked the women's volleyball team, Pornpun said she was a reserve player back then, trying her best to support seniors but felt very disappointed. Now, the focus is on how to qualify for the Olympics. For athletes, this match is sacred. Those going to the Olympics must be truly ready, not just individually but as a team believing in each other. The painful experience from 10 years ago motivates them now to know their duties, try, and succeed."
"Regarding preparations for the upcoming Asian Games, where the team must travel tonight, Pornpun expressed confidence that they will bring home a medal, though uncertain of its color because opponents are unknown. She said morale is at 100 percent, physical condition will be assessed on match day, and after the Asian Games, they plan a 15-day rest in Thailand before traveling to the U.S. for preseason training, with some teammates traveling earlier."