Coach Ott unveils the plan for the 2028 Olympics, emphasizing three essential qualities for national athletes: readiness in body, mind, and attitude.
Coach Ott Kiattipong Ratcha-kriangkrai revealed the preparation plan for the Thai women's volleyball team aiming for the 2028 Olympic Games, which is about 19 months away. The focus is on developing new athletes alongside upgrading tactics, techniques, and coaching staff to maintain Thailand’s standard on the global stage.
Coach Ott stated, "There are about 19 months left, less than 20 months. We have many tasks ahead. First is recruiting and selecting personnel for various roles, starting with athletes. We need to recruit players for every position. My plan is to have at least four setters; ideally 8-10, 8-10 middle blockers, 8-10 outside hitters, at least 6-8 defensive specialists, and 4 liberos. In total, around 30 players will be preparing."
"Each athlete must develop qualities to be ready for the current national team, both physically and mentally. They must have confidence and be able to manage stress, pressure, and anxiety. Additionally, they need the right attitude because a positive mindset generates good energy for the team and drives everyone forward together."
"Moreover, tactics and playing techniques must be developed to world-class standards. Next year, we will consider how to give each player opportunities in the four competitions, especially the VNL, a world-class stage. We should allow young players to compete while maintaining Thailand’s standard and presence on the world stage."
"Competitions will have wins and losses, but I believe defeat is valuable if it is an investment that helps athletes grow and learn to become the nation's key players in the coming years. If losing helps them mature, I am willing to accept all criticism. Of course, we also want victories because wins hold value and meaning for the team."
"Next year, we will seek support from everyone. Another essential task is developing our coaching staff, as coaches cannot remain only in Thailand. I want to send coaches abroad to learn and grow in foreign leagues, such as study visits to major leagues in Italy or Turkey, and to visit and encourage athletes in Japan and the United States. We have planned this but need support from the president as well."
"We are nearly out of funds after hosting the World Championship; we have exhausted both capital and resources. We hope sponsors and the government will sympathize and support our development needs. I ask the media to help communicate with relevant parties, including the government, the Sports Authority of Thailand, and other sectors, to support our coaches. Coaches are essential personnel who will lead us to our goals in the coming years. This is what we must prepare and continue to work on."