With less than two weeks to go to the next edition of the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup that will be played in Poreč, Croatia (3-9 February 2025), Tikhamporn Sakulpithak, Thailand’s captain, talks about her team’s expectations, the development of hockey in her country and what it means for Thailand to play their first-ever FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup.
It is the very first time that Thailand has qualified for an FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup. How does it feel to represent your country at this level?
As a striker with over 15 years of experience in the sport, it is truly a dream come true to represent my country at this level. Reaching this stage in my career and having the opportunity to compete in the World Cup feels incredible. It’s a mix of years of hard work, and I’m filled with pride to be part of this historic moment for Thailand.
What does it mean for the development of hockey in Thailand?
This is a significant milestone for the development of hockey in Thailand, particularly indoor hockey. Even as the top-ranked team in Asia, we recognize that there is always room for improvement. Indoor hockey offers great potential for growth, especially as young players can practice and play in any local gymnasium, making it more accessible than outdoor field hockey, which often requires artificial turfs that are limited in number. The ease of access to indoor facilities is helping the sport thrive.
Are you and your teammates playing specifically indoor hockey or also outdoor hockey? If you play both, what skills in 11-a-side hockey are enhanced by playing indoor hockey?
Many of us began our careers in outdoor field hockey, but over time, indoor hockey has become a significant focus for us. The frequent tournaments available domestically, coupled with the support from the Thailand Hockey Association in hosting continental events, have given us a sense of confidence. The exposure to both formats allows us to build complementary skills - indoor hockey sharpens our quick reflexes, close ball control, and decision-making under pressure, which can certainly enhance our performance in the outdoor game.
What do you like most about indoor hockey?
What I love most about indoor hockey is the way it has opened doors for me to see the world. My first exposure to Europe, for instance, came through a training camp in Austria and Poland. The sport has not only enriched my athletic journey but also allowed me to experience different cultures.
Were you or some of your teammates participating in the FIH Hockey5s World Cup in Oman last year? If yes, what have you learned during this event?
Yes, a few of us participated in the FIH Hockey5s World Cup in Oman. However, our primary focus and passion remain with indoor hockey. Due to the regulations of our Association, players are now required to specialize in a specific discipline - whether field hockey, indoor hockey, or the new Hockey5s format. While participating in multiple disciplines may present challenges for both players and management, it also creates a more streamlined environment for the development of younger players who are eager to enter the sport.
What is your objective for this Indoor World Cup?
As the reigning champions of Asia, our objective is simple: to give our absolute best in every match. We understand the significance of this opportunity as it marks our first-ever appearance in the World Cup. We are fully committed to representing our country with pride and determination, aiming to make the most of this invaluable experience.
Any message for your fans?
We are incredibly grateful for the support of our fans, and we invite you to follow us on this exciting journey. This is a historic moment for our national team, as we make our World Cup debut. While we know the first time is always the most challenging, we promise to give it our all and enjoy every moment of this incredible opportunity. Thank you for believing in us!
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