Mercinews.com – The International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) has congratulated the Takraw Association of Thailand (TAT) following its appointment of four new coaches to lead the country’s men’s and women’s national sepaktakraw teams ahead of the 39th Thai King’s Cup World Sepaktakraw Championship.
ISTAF Secretary General Datuk Abdul Halim Kader said the appointments reflect TAT’s commitment to sustaining the country’s long-standing tradition of excellence in the sport while ensuring continuity in the development of its national programme.
The newly appointed coaching line-up comprises First Lieutenant Pornchai Kaokaew of the Royal Thai Army and former Royal Thai Army coach Phattharaphong Yupadee for the men’s national team. The women’s national team will be coached by Weerachai Saengsawang of Chonburi Sports School and Chakri Phuangcharoen of Nakhon Pathom Sports School.
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The appointments come after TAT replaced former national team coaches Sakda Janthawong and Sombat Bantee, who are currently suspended pending disciplinary proceedings linked to incidents during the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup Kuala Lumpur 2026.
ISTAF said it respects the autonomy of its member national federations in matters concerning the administration and management of their respective national teams. The federation also welcomed TAT’s swift decision, describing it as an important step to ensure uninterrupted preparations for upcoming international competitions while reinforcing the principles of professionalism, accountability and good governance.
“The appointment of these experienced coaches reflects Thailand’s continued commitment to excellence in sepaktakraw,” Abdul Halim said in a statement on Friday.
“On behalf of ISTAF, I extend my sincere congratulations to the Takraw Association of Thailand and wish the newly appointed coaches and the national teams every success in their preparations for the 39th Thai King’s Cup World Sepaktakraw Championship,” he added.
ISTAF reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all member national federations to promote integrity, fair play and sporting excellence as part of the continued global development of sepaktakraw.(red)
