Bangkok: The captain of the Thai women's national volleyball team is full of confidence and ready to compete in the Asian Games. "Chompoo Pornpan," captain of the Thai women's national volleyball team, revealed that she prayed to sacred sites to boost her confidence and improve her 'cha-cha-cha' rhythm, reducing pressure on the team after close matches. She declared that her morale is at 100% and she's ready to compete in the Asian Games, confident that they will bring home a medal.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Pornpan Guedparach, or Chompoo, the captain of the Thai women's national volleyball team, commented on the victory, saying that in addition to their ability and confidence, mental strength is also crucial. Therefore, they may have prayed to sacred sites for blessings before the match. Regarding the game itself, she acknowledged that there were moments of disadvantage and mistakes, but their experience allowed them to discern who should play how, ultimately leading to victory.
Additionally, there's a technique to reduce stress and pressure: cheering in a fun, rhythmic 'cha-cha-cha' style, which is in line with Thai culture. I didn't see this coordinated cheering practice at first because I was talking to the reserve team outside the court. It wasn't until I watched the video that I found it cute and heartwarming. If we play under pressure, our faces will look stressed. But if we feel like we're playing with the instinct of a volleyball player, with the instinct of a winner, anything is possible. So we have to create that feeling ourselves.
Regarding how her feelings have changed from 10 years ago to now, Ms. Pornphan stated that back then she was a substitute player and tried her best to help the team. She admitted to being disappointed because they couldn't accept why the Thai national team, with their skill level, couldn't qualify for the Olympics. However, over time, her perspective has changed. She now focuses on how to achieve her goal of reaching the Olympics, because those who can go to the Olympics must be truly prepared and confident. When given the opportunity, she believes she must make the most of it, as she has already participated in all other competitions.
Regarding her readiness for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, Ms. Pornpan said that she is determined to bring back a medal, but doesn't know what kind it will be because she hasn't seen the other teams' players yet. She added that her morale is 100%, but she will have to assess her capabilities and physical condition further.
Regarding whether she will travel immediately to the United States to play in the LOVB (League One Volleyball) professional women's volleyball league after the Asian Games, Ms. Pornpan stated that she thinks she will go immediately because she has discussed with her family that after the Asian Games, she wants to rest for about 15 days in Thailand, and then rest for another 15 days in the United States before the start of the competition season.
When asked about their meeting with the Prime Minister inside Government House earlier, Ms. Pornphan said the Prime Minister offered words of encouragement, and she asked if he had ever played any sports. He replied that he had played sports when he was younger. She then commented that the Prime Minister seemed to have good athletic skills and quick reflexes, expressing her admiration for him.