Thailand won bronze at the inuaugral Asian Games in 1998 and four years later in 2002.
Since then, in the three following Asian Games, Thailand have not medalled. But this year their coach, Tanyavit Kuasint, is aiming to return to the success of those two Games.
“We used to receive a bronze medal from the Asian Games,” said Kuasint.
“So this year we would love to stand on the medal ceremony and I think our team are ready to fight hard to get the medal.”
Medals aside, however, having rugby sevens in the Asian Games is of great importance to Thailand, and the rest of Asia.
“Rugby sevens is a world class sport. There are a lot of big tournament around the world and having this sport in these Games will make the sport reach even more world class competition,” added Kuasint.
“Rugby is famous around the world. But in Asia only a few countries have their name on the leader board.
“This weekend will help promote the sport to be played further and wider in Asian countries. Hopefully, in the future there will be more teams to have name on the global scale.”
Thailand face a tough pool against Pakistan, China and Hong Kong. But being part of the Games is an opportunity not underestimated by Kuasint.
“Being part of this Asian Games and helping to promote the sport is an honour enough for us.
“We hope that this competition will help our team become stronger of course too. We are a team that has only local players.”
Thailand Mens Rugby Team
Akarin Thitisakulvit, Wuttipong Sakunthingthong, Klin Laksanasompong, Puvadol Palukpetch, Noppasit Kradkrayang, Warongkorn Khamkoet, Chatree Wannadit, Sarut Janda, Sumet Thammaporn, Sichon Nakarin, Panupong Puangpun, Khomchak Chakrabandhu Na Ayudhaya
Asian Games Rugby Sevens Event >>>>>Fixtures and Results
