Interview With Adrian Kwong: 2016

My interview with Adrian Kwong, a Chonburi fan from Hong Kong

8th April, 2016

 

Q - Please can you introduce yourself

My name is Adrian, and I am a 23 year old fan from Hong Kong.  I am a student working towards a criminology degree.

 

Q - How long have you been supporting Chonburi?

As I have just recently branched out into Thai football, I have followed Chonburi for a little under 5 months, if memory serves.

 

Q - What first got you interested in Chonburi FC?

Chonburi FC reminded me of my local team very much – the organization, the passion of the fans, their rise from the lower divisions to become a mainstay at the top – and I began to feel a similar bond with Chonburi.

 

Q - How did your friends react when you told them you'd started supporting Chonburi?

Unfortunately, most of my friends are not into football; those that are, watch games for the big names and the big teams – Man United, Liverpool, Chelsea, etc.  They don’t know what they’re missing out on – every big team starts small, and I believe Chonburi are on such a journey.

 

Q - What have you done to spread the word about Chonburi in Hong Kong?

With every football fan I talk to, I try to steer the conversation towards the international stage; that football can exist outside the big leagues on TV.  I try to bring awareness to other fans, wherever I may meet them, that smaller, less glamorous leagues bring a different level of excitement and bonding, and bring a stronger sense of camaraderie among fans.  I do hope that one day, Hong Kong would start showing games from Thailand as frequently as the big leagues out there.

 

Q - Who are your favourite Chonburi players?

As with all the teams I follow, I hesitate to pick players out from the team because without a team, there is no football.  If I had to pick a player, it would be striker Mo (Pipob On-Mo).  Industrious, low center of gravity, an all round striker – Mo reminds me a little of Sergio Aguero.

 

Q - What are your impressions of the coach, Therdsak Chaiman?

Admittedly, I don't know enough about him, except a tidbit on his playing history.

 

Q - How easy is it to follow Chonburi from Hong Kong?

Not easy at all; usually I am restricted to highlights on Youtube.  When I was in Thailand for a holiday,  I tried to catch the games on local TV.

 

Q - What are your hopes and expectations for Chonburi this season?

Going with the results from the last few seasons, I would hope Chonburi could fight for a top three finish; the happiest scenario would be a repeat of 2007; in football, anything can happen.  Whatever comes at the end of the season, though, I wish sincerely that the players and fans enjoy their time on the pitch together.

 

Q - Have you been to watch Chonburi play?

One day, I hope to have the honour, and to experience the football atmosphere in Thailand.

 

Q - What did you know about Thai football before you started following Chonburi?

Nearly nothing; I do know that football is beautiful, no matter where it’s played, and I wanted to see all the football there is to see out there.

 

Q - What do you most like about Thai football?

I love the intensity from the fans from what little I have been able to see during televised games and highlights; in Hong Kong, it’s very hard to find fans who see a team as more than the scoreboard, or to find fans who would stick with “their team” no matter the score.  In other words, it’s great to see fans that put their heart and soul into a team that represents them, and that their love goes beyond just winning games or trophies.  The banners, the flags, the chants and the jumping...it’s mesmerizing.

 

Q - Would you like to send a message to the Chonburi management, players and fans?

Enjoy the game before the results, and continue to be a big, beautiful family of Sharks.

 

Q - Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Good luck on the next PLT game against Buriram!

NEW!! Interview With Pat Comer: 2020

Interview with Chonburi fan, Pat Comer

How did you keep busy during the break?

I actually worked for most of the time. I had some forced days off but not too many compared to others. I have been back working full time in the office since May. We are lucky in Thailand in that the Gov. implemented strict controls from the begining and people in the main complied with the requirements. I increased my time on the bicycle looking for new routes around Chonburi and Bangsaen. I also did some gardening much to the annoyance of my wife.

What are the best things about having the football back?

Meeting my friends Val and Tim and having a good chat and natter at half time. Indeed the chat was so good during the first game we didn't go back inside for the second half. I always think of the movie "The Field of Dreams" when I walk up the steps and see the pitch looking great under the floodlights. In Ireland where I'm from the main sport is Gaelic Football and Hurling with Rugby / Soccer lower down the list. Most Gaelic football is played under natural light. I love the atmosphere of a match under floodlights. 

How do you think the Thai FA/TPL have handled the crisis?

As well as any other association around the world. One thing I find frustrating is the lack of communication both from the Thai FA and particularly Chonburi FC. I have never received a communicaiton from Chonburi FC. It would be nice to receive an odd email highlighting upcoming features and maybe transport to away matches etc,

What do you think they could or should have done differently?

More communication especially from Chonburi FC. Although both my wife and myself did receive lovely facemasks whcih were much appreciated.

How has the match going experience changed at Chonburi Stadium?

Not much to be honest, it's easier getting parking even on my motorcycle which is great.

What has the atmosphere been like at the home games since the restart?

The atmosphere is great even with less people attending the seats which are not available for sitting on are clearly marked.

Given the current restrictions, what can the club and the fans do to improve it?

I think the club are doing a good job. The people entereing are  controlled and temperature checked. One point I would make would be that maybe people who want to leave should have a different exit point and should not be expected to push against people entering the stadium. This is only a small gripe. The toilets are deplorable as always but I would have expected an adequate supply of soap to be available given the recommendations from various health bodies around the world in relation to fighting the virus.

When do you think it will get back to "normal"? 

I'm not sure will we ever revert back to the normal we grew up with. However once a vacinne is available and used worldwide we will go back to the old "norm" with some ommisions like hand shaking, hugging and kissing. 

How has the team performed since the restart?

We can't argue with the home games and even doing well away. Sitting third in the table is nice to see.

Which players have impressed you since the restart?

The goalie, Sinthaweechai Hathairattanakool, has played reallly well since the return. It is great to see a goalie juming and catching a ball over his head rather than punching it away.

What have been your highlights of the season so far?

The half time/second half  chat with Val and Tim during the first game game. I like the movemnet of the team since the return, they are playing with more confidence and are better on the ball.

What improvements do you think we need to make?

I'd love to see a couple of good midfielders who are capable of winning balls and creating time and space with through balls and good passing movements. I'd love to see players staying on their feet rathing than falling down hoping to get a free. Surely it is better to keep the ball alive rather than looking for a free kick which allows the opposition to organise themselves.

How do you think we will fare during the rest of the season?

I'm looking forward to the remaining games. I think we can approach them with confidence.

A lot of foreign fans on social media seem to be losing interest due to the restrictions, length of break etc. What would you say to get them going to matches again?

There is an Irish expression called "Craic" (crack). When you meet someone you often say "How's the Craic" which means how are things are you enjoying yourself. Craic is an all encompassing expression which goes beyond the core activity. In our case the craic at Chonburi Matches is greater that the actaul game itself. The preparation in advance, looking for and putting on the football shirt, driving to the game, meeting old friends, seeing smiling faces (before the game), sitting and having a beer and a chat. We can now bring beer into the stadium in paper cups which is great. The football is great also with lots of action, good movement and goals. All in all I can say "the craic is mighty".

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I think  Chonburi FC should create a mailing list of season ticket holders and send out monthly emails which could inlcude:

1) Training schedule and location, if I'm off I'd love to attend and watch a training session.

2) A four week window of upcoming matches home and away

3) Travel arrangements available for away matches

4) Club promotions - anything happening from a commercial point of view.

5) Any club special offers , shirt selling, face mask, cycling shirts and shorts etc.

Interview With Seth Amponsah: 2016

My interview with Chonburi fan, Seth Twum Amponsah, from 8th August, 2016

Q - Please can you introduce yourself

I am Seth Twum Amponsah. I 28 years of age and come from Ghana. I am a police officer.

 

Q - How long have been supporting Chonburi and what first got you interested?

I have been supporting the club for the past three years and first got interested by the club’s history and the logo.

 

Q - How do you follow the club's fortunes?

I follow through websites and watch games on the internet.

 

Q - What do you think of our season so far?

The season hasn't been that bad. Considering the finances at the club, the guys are doing their best.

 

Q - What have been the highlights?

The highlight is our progress in the FA Cup.

 

Q - And the low points?

And the low point is the 9-0 loss to Tokyo in the AFC Champions League qualifier.

 

Q - What do you think that the club does well?

The club does well in giving chances to the academy boys

 

Q - And what improvements would you like to see at Chonburi?

Chonburi FC should improve the stadium and the training pitch.

 

Q - You mentioned the highlight of the season as being our FA Cup run, do you think we can go all the way and win it?

Looking at the remaining teams, I think winning the FA Cup will be difficult, but anything is possible in football.

 

Q - How pleased are you to see your brother, Prince, being successful this season?

I am pleased to see my younger brother being successful at a club like Chonburi FC and I wish him the best.

 

Q - Please can you give us some information about his background.

Prince started playing football at a very tender age. He played in the school team so many times and he also played for a colts club. Later he joined the junior side of Amidaus professional football club. Coach Chris, now the head coach of Sakaeo FC, spotted him and brought him to Thailand. However, after having trials with teams like Thai Honda, Samutprakan and Kadnapho fc - where they saw him as a talented player - he failed to get registered, due to his small size. Luckily, Phanthong FC took him on and nurtured him.

 

Q - How closely do the people in your community follow his progress?

Prince is being followed closely by the local community and the country at large is monitoring his progress.

 

Q - What do you think he can go on to achieve?

Prince can go on to achieve a lot for himself and the club as a whole, when he is given the opportunity.

 

Q - Are there any stories of Prince that you can share with us?

For Prince stories, I would have to write a whole book! So please let’s leave that for another time.

 

Q - How often do you contact him?

We talk on the phone everyday. Any time I get the opportunity to watch his game via the internet, we dissect the game and I tell him his mistakes and what he should do the next time, when giving the opportunity to play.

 

Q - What has he said about his fantastic start at Chonburi?

He is very happy about his good start and he prays it will continue to get better.

 

Q - Have you any plans to come over and watch him - and the team?

Yes. I am planning on taking some days off work to come watch him and the team play.

 

Q - Would you like to send a message to the Chonburi fans?

I would like to tell the Chonburi fans they should always support the club in all situations. This season is a transitional one when every supporter needs to come to the matches and watch their favourite club play. By so doing, next season will be better.

 

Q - Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Thank you  for this opportunity to talk about Chonburi FC and my brother.

Interview With Alistair MacDonald Fraser: 2011

CHONBURI FAN INTERVIEW
12th August, 2011
Alastair MacDonald Fraser is a Bangkok based Chonburi fan. I managed to grab a few words with him recently. Here is the result of our quick Q&A session.

Please could you tell us a bit about yourself.
- Alastair MacDonald Fraser, 27 years old, born in Weston-Super-Mare, England.

How long have you been in Thailand?
- Almost nine months

How long have you been following Chonburi FC?
- Since I got here

What first got you interested in the club?
- As pathetic as it sounds; I liked their kit.

Which was the first match you went to? 
- I went to the FA Cup final a few weeks after I arrived in Bangkok. To my shame I actually went as a Muang Thong fan (I have friends out here who follow them & suggested I do the same) but somehow didn't feel quite right sporting the Red and Black and I said 'Nah sorry boys, I'm a Chonburi man'....I've not looked back since.

This will be your first visit to the Chonburi Stadium, what are your expectations?
- I expect a great atmosphere and hopefully a decent performance from The Sharks!

Apart from the match itself, what are you most looking forward to on your visit?
- It'll be good to finally see the home of Chonburi FC and the surrounding area. At all the away games I have seen it has felt like Chonburi were the home team due to our supporters so I will look forward to seeing that amplified on a large scale by a sell out home crowd.

Who is you favourite player? 
- Arthit Sunthorpit

What do you think our chances are on Saturday?
- I think it's going to be tough for us to be honest; we seem to be eeking out results recently (which is no bad thing) but when you look at PEA's record so far this season they're going to take some beating.

If we don’t win, can we still overhaul PEA at the top?
- Realistically no, I think this is a must win game. Especially considering we now have Muang Tong snapping at our heels ready to capitilize on any dropped points.

Which other TPL teams have impressed you? 
- I though Bangkok Glass played some great counter attacking football and was very suprised to see they thumped 6-2 by Muang Thong the other night!

How does the TPL compare with the football you’re used to watching?
- Obviously the quality isn't as good but that is more than compensated for by the great atmosphere you get at games. In fairness, most of the games I've attended over recent years have been International games involving the Scottish national side, which clearly demonstrates I'm more interested in great support as opposed to quality football!

What would you say to someone who’s never been to a Chonburi match to encourage them to come along? 
- For me you needn't be a massive football fan to go along and have a great time. A bit of singing and shouting with a cold beer in hand is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening and all for around 100 baht for a ticket....you can't go wrong really!

Chonburi Fan Profile - Watin Yaidee: 2009

Khun Watin was a leading figure in the Pattaya branch of the Chonburi FC Fan Club. He helped to arrange travel to all away matches and was instrumental in organising trips overseas to our AFC games. Here is his profile, from November, 2009. 

Full Name : Watin Yaidee 

Nickname : Nui 

Nationality : Thai 

Q : Where do you live? 

I live in Pattaya 

Q : Which was your 1st Chonburi match? 

The first match of the 2007 season at the Seaside Stadium 

Q : Why did you start supporting Chonburi? 

I like football and I live in Chonburi province. 

Q : Which other team(s) -Thai or foreign- do you support? 

My favourite other Thai team is Phitsanulok FC 

Q : Who is your favourite current Chonburi player? 

Number 10, Pipop On-Mo 

Q : Who is your favourite Chonburi player of all time? 

Ney Fabiano 

Q : Which has been your most memorable Chonburi match? Against Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League 

Q : Which trophies do you think we will win next season? 

The TPL title and the FA Cup 

Q : What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club? 

They are hard core supporters. I like it! 

Q : Why do you think that Chonburi have been so successful? Everyone connected with the club has football in their hearts 

Q : Is there anything you'd like to say to the other Chonburi fans? 

The show must go on until we reach our goal .

Chonburi Fan Profile: Cent Wagefeld: 2009

As Chonburi's fame started to spread far and wide, we found ourselves with fans all over the world. One such fan was Cent Wagefeld in Holland. In August, 2009, Cent was good enough to answer a few questions about his love for The Sharks. 

Name : Cent Wageveld 

Nationality : Dutch 

Q : Which was your 1st Chonburi match? 

Sorry, I've actually never seen The Sharks live! 

Q : Why did you start supporting Chonburi? 

In 2007 when I visited Thailand 

Q : Who is your favourite current Chonburi player? 

Arthit Sunthornphit 

Q : What has been your most memorable Chonburi match? 

None so far 

Q : Which trophies do you think we will win this season? 

The Thai Premier League Championship 

Q : What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club? 

Great, give the fans a platform an strengthen the support 

Q : Why do you think that Thai football has suddenly become so popular? 

It has becomes better organised and the external PR has been increased. 

Q : Which other teams (Thai or foreign) do you support? 

Sparta Rotterdam (Eredivisie, The Netherlands) 

Q : Anything else you'd like to add? 

I hope I will be able one day to visit a home match of Chonburi and wish the team and their fans a lot of succes and good football in the nearby future

Chonburi Fan Profile - Bu: 2009

Full Name : Chatchai Rakmanee 

Nickname : Bu 

Nationality : Thai 

Q : Where do you live? 

Sriracha. 

Q : Which was your 1st Chonburi match? 

Chonburi v TOT at the Seaside Stadium in 2007. 

Q : Why did you start supporting Chonburi? 

They are my local team and I believe that people should support their local team. 

Q : Which other team(s) -Thai or foreign- do you support? 

In Thailand it's Sriracha FC and in England, Man United. 

Q : Who is your favourite current Chonburi player? 

Sintahweechai (Kosin) our goalkeeper. 

Q : Who is your favourite Chonburi player of all time? 

Chonburi's Captain, Pipop On-mo. 

Q : Which has been your most memorable Chonburi match so far?
Chonburi v Melbourne Victory in the 2008 AFC Champions League. 

Q : Which trophies do you think we will win next season? 

I would like us to win the TPL and the FA Cup. 

Q : What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club? 

Well, Chonburi fans are very good team supporters. 

Q : Why do you think that Chonburi have been so successful? 

I think we've been successful because the Chonburi management has good vision. 

Q : Is there anything you'd like to say to the other Chonburi fans? 

Keep going forward together and always do today better than you did yesterday.

Chonburi FC Fan Profile - Bob Lee: 2009

In August, 2009, I had the opportunity to ask Malaysian Sharks fan, Bob Lee, a few questions about his love of Chonburi FC. Here's what he had to say. 

Name : Bob Lee 

Nationality : Malaysian 

Q : Which was your first Chonburi match? 

Queens Cup 2008 

Q : When did you start supporting Chonburi? 

2008 

Q : Which other team do you support?
Manchester United 

Q : Who is your favourite current Chonburi player? 

Suree 

Q : What has been your most memorable Chonburi match? 

My first one. 

Q : Which trophies do you think we will win this season? 

The Thai Premier League and the FA Cup 

Q : What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club? 

What the fanclub members had given to the Blue Sharks is something I have never seen before - for example the birthday celebration for all the players and staff. They are always there to give their best cheer at the games - this is over 5,000 fan club members at every match. It is known that they came with their heart and not because of being forced by anyone. This really shows that we've got good spirit. 

Q : Why do you think that Chonburi have been so successful? 

For me it's a belief that there is the capacity to surpass anything that their predecessors achieved, ensuring they go down as the finest team ever. 

Q : Is there anything you'd like to say to the other Chonburi fans? 

Keep on loving - do not lose faith even though at sometimes things might be down. Never let the spirit die.

Chonburi Fan Profile - Klaus: 2009

Profile of Chonburi fan, Klaus Liedecke, from September, 2009.

Name : Klaus Liedecke ( Lulu )
Nationality : German

Q - Why did you start supporting Chonburi?
A - I was warmly welcomed from the first day. I have always been interested in football but when I came here it was like I was among friends straightaway.

Q - Who is your favourite current Chonburi player?
A - Kosin

Q - Which has been your most memorable Chonburi match?
A - My first one. 3rd May, 2008 vs BEC Tero (We lost 0-1. This was to be our last match at the old Chonburi Municipal Stadium)

Q - Which trophies do you think we will win this season?
A - The AFC Cup and the Thai Premier League.

Q - Why do you think that Thai football has suddenly become so popular?
A -The local people have realised that they have good players here and the whole family can enjoy going to the match together.

Q - Which other teams (Thai or foreign) do you support?
A - Borussia Dortmund

Q - Anything else you'd like to add?
A - Come to see the matches and have fun!

Klaus is a member of the 4SUPSCHON fan club.

THE BLUE STATEMENT : 4SUPSCHON
We are a group of foreign people who support. Chonburi FC. The name of our group is 4 SUPSCHON. We were formed about 18 months ago. The founding members were Tobi, Till, Lulu and Andy, who has gone back to Germany. We are always looking for new friends to join us. If you would like more information, or want to come with us to any away match, do not hesitate to contact Lulu, in German or English.

Interview With Pat Comer: 2018

My interview with Chonburi fan, Pat Comer, from January, 2018

 

Q - Please can you introduce yourself

A - My name Is Pat Comer aged 60 and I come from Galway on the West Coast of Ireland. I am working in Amata Nakorn for a Multi National called Transitions Optical. We manufacture Photochromic Spectacle Lenses (Clear indoors and dark outdoors).

Q - How long have you been supporting Chonburi?

A - I attended my very first Chonburi FC match during 2016. It was really my wife, Dao that coerced me into attending it. I enjoyed the whole event and I picked out one Chonburi player that night. He was a small tenacious midfielder, called Adul, who tackled well and his distribution and vision were very good.

 

Q - And what first got you interested?

A - I moved to Chonburi in December, 2014 and started asking about Chonburi FC almost immediately. However, I did not go to watch a game until I moved to Ang Sila. I live about 5km from the stadium. and love going there.  In Ireland I played rugby, Gaelic football and soccer, My mother hailed from Manchester so naturally I support Man. Utd. In Ireland I supported Sligo Rovers and Galway United.

 

Q - How would you sum up last season?

A - Not unexpected, given the exodus of players from the previous season. They had some good outings when they displayed some fighting qualities and footballing qualities; for example the League Cup match against Buriram Utd. Unfortunately, this passion and skill was missing from other games.

 

Q - Which match did you enjoy the most?

A - Even though we lost on penalties, it was the aforementioned cup game against Buriram Utd. On the night there was passion skill and flair on display. It was a proper cup match. If they could have transferred some of this to the league campaign,  we definitely could have accumulated more points.

 

Q - Who were our best players in 2017?

A - I would select Kroerkrit as my best player. He is fast on the ball, a tenacious tackler and his distribution is also very good. Nurul Sriyarngem also stood out during 2017, but unfortunately he has been transferred. We need to hold on to our best players if we hope to do well.

 

Q - What were your impressions of the coach?

A - Therdsak could only work with what he had. Too often the coach gets the blame, but I won't blame him for poor performances on the pitch. If the preparation has been done, and done well, that is all that can be expected of the coach. He cannot turn ordinary players into world beaters.

 

Q - How do you think the delay in appointing a new head coach will impact on our preparations for next season?

A - The lack of a new coach until very recently is not good. The owners took their eye off the ball, so to speak. To prepare properly for the new season the coach should be been installed much earlier. To prepare the team properly, to purchase new players, to put a fitness, dietary and training program together takes time. Unfortunately, the new coach hasn't had that time.

 

Q - What are your thoughts on the new man?

A - The new coach worked in the German league. Goran Barjaktarevic will bring good organizational skills to the job. German teams are well organized, strong, athletic and don't give away too many goals. In addition they display attacking flair when the time is right. I think the new coach will bring these skills to his role at Chonburi FC and we will see a well organised, athletic team, playing in the league.

 

Q - If you could give him any advice, what would it be?

A - Identify the strengths of the team and play to the strengths. If the team play attractive football the fans will come.

 

Q - Where do you think we need to improve in 2018?

A - We need to score more goals, and we need to get the ball forward more quickly. I am not a fan of lateral passing when other options are available. If we can score more goals we will win more matches, if we win more matches the fans will come along.

Q - What are your hopes for the season ahead?

A - My main hope for the coming season is that we leave the stadium after the match knowing that the players gave it their all. I also hope we have more goals, more victories and more success. The atmosphere in the ground can be very quiet at times and seems to be disjointed. Maybe we need a few club anthems that we can all sing along to.  

 

Q - Realistically, what sort of season do you think we'll have?

A - I am hoping that it will be better than 2017. However, the late arrival of the new coach doesn't augur well for the season ahead. The sale of Nurul Sriyarngem shows a lack of ambition and maybe the owners expectations are no better than mid table so that's my realistic expectation.

Q - What do you think about the match day experience at the stadium?

A - I love the atmosphere around the stadium. The sponsors put on a good show for the fans, with a variety of events before kick off. Inside the stadium it is not so exciting, with a lack of atmosphere.

 

Q - What would you do to improve it?

A - There are many things that can be done!

⦁ Before the match maybe have a marching band from a local school who will play a few rousing songs.

⦁ Have special events - Parachute landing, fireworks, Guinness book of records attempt, tug of war etc, There are many events that can be arranged.

⦁ Half time - match between two schools across the pitch, have the schools provide the mascots also. Bringing in children might also bring in the parents.

⦁ Have a song printed and give it to everybody in the stadium at a specific time arrange that everybody will sing the song together.

Q - What do you think of the club's decision to reduce the price of the season tickets?

A - Great idea, I'm buying two today. They should also sell these at a booth in Central Plaza, send fliers to every factory at Amata, every school in Chonburi and all other large employers.

 

Q - Do you think it will bring in more fans?

A- It will if it is marketed properly. If people are aware of the deal I think they will buy into it.

 

Q - Is there anything else you'd like to add?

A - Come on, the Sharks! Play like sharks and make Chonburi Stadium the one that opposing teams dread to play in.

 

Interview With Chaiyakrit Aaamlid: 2013

My interview with Muay Thai boxer, and Chonburi fan, Chaiyakrit Aamlid, from 15th August, 2013

Q- Please can you start by introducing yourself

A - My name is Chaiyakrit Aamlid or simply Kevin. I am 19 years old. My father is Norwegian and my mother is Thai. Currently I am living in Norway studying shipping management 

 

Q- How long have you been involved in Muay Thai?

A - I have enjoyed watching Muay Thai for many years but I only started training when I was 14 years old

 

Q- What first got you interested in Muay Thai?

A- I got interested basically by living in Thailand. Living in Thailand you couldn't hide from Muay Thai.  

Q- How often do you need to train?

A- 6 days a week, having 1 day of rest which is Sunday 

 

Q- Who is your trainer?

A- My trainer's name is Kru Oa, 33 year old man from Lop Buri, Thailand. He is not just a trainer but he is also an active fighter himself and has a Muay Thai match in Romania this month. I have been with a few other trainers but no one as good as Kru Oa in my opinion. He has very good technique and I wouldnt want another trainer but him.

 

Q- Please describe a typical day's training schedule

A- Training is usually twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the afternoon, both training schedules in the morning and afternoon are pretty similar. It first starts off with a run (more of a nice easy jog), then 10 minutes of Tyre jumping, 10 minutes of skipping rope and sometimes 10 minutes of shadow boxing as well (these are all warm ups). After these "warm ups" the trainer and I will do some pad work where the trainer holds the pads and tells me what to do so it could be kicks, elbows, punches or knees (this usually goes on for 4 or 5 rounds of 3 minutes). Next is work on the heavy bag which usually goes on for about 3 rounds. Then a couple of sit ups and last but not least, weight training.

Q- How important is diet to a Muay Thai fighter?

A- Generally it is very important for a Muay Thai fighter to stay in good condition and also to make weight. Food and drinks have a lot to do with it. I tend to eat more veggies and fruit than I used to and stay away from the soft drinks. Also I have to consume a lot of proteins   

 

Q- Who are your favourite Muay Thai fighters and why?

A- Yodsanklai Fairtex has got to be one of my favorites due to the fact that he is very good. He has also put Muay Thai on the map just by being as good as he is and made a lot of people aware of the sport. Another favorite of mine is Sudsakorn Sor Klinmee, simply because he has a unique fighting style and that he is also from Chonburi province, also a very funny character.

 

Q- How have you been preparing for your fight?

A- Going to training helps me get prepared. Kru Oa has given me a lot of advice and taught me different techniques. Also sparring and clinching helps a great deal.

 

Q- When and where is your fight?

A- My fight is on Friday the 16th of August and the event starts at 20:00hrs. The fight will be at Pattaya Boxing World which is right next to Mini Siam, they both share the same parking lot. It is located right next to Sukhumvit Road close to Bangkok Pattaya hospital. 

 

Q- What do you know about your opponent?

A- Not much at all unfortunately. I know we both are fighting at 72 kgs and that he is not Thai. 

 

Q- What are your expectations for Friday night?

A- Hopefully put on a great performance. I have trained too long not to get a good result out of it but I know my opponent will have the same thing in mind 

 

Q- What are your Muay Thai ambitions?

A- I want to make people from other nations more aware of Muay Thai. I would love to teach it one day.

Q- What do you think Muay Thai has taught you?

A- Muay Thai has taught me that success comes from hard work.

 

Q- What advice would you give to someone who wants to take up Muay Thai?

A- Do it! It is very good exercise and results will show in no time. You can also defend yourself and others at difficult times. 

 

Q- How long have you been supporting Chonburi FC?

A- From what I remember, I think it was since 2006 

 

Q- Who is your favourite player and why?

A- It's got to be the super goalkeeper Sinthaweechai Hathairattanakool, simply because he has been at Chonburi FC all the years I have been supporting them. I am sure he loves the club as much as the fans do.

 

Q- What has been the highlight of your Chonburi supporting years?

A- It has to be winning the league in 2007, that moment when we beat Krung Thai Bank to secure a winning spot was one of the best moments in my life. The stadium was full of fireworks, flares and the atmosphere was incredible. It makes me really happy that I was part of something special like that. The stadium was so full, me and my little brother had to climb over the fences and we were sitting right next to the benches where all the coaches and substitutes were. When Pipop scored the winning goal to make it 3-2, I couldnt describe a better feeling. 

 

Q- What are your thoughts on Chonburi's season so far?

A- We have been playing so poor at times, I am surprised that we are even 3rd. I hate the fact that Buriram Utd and Muang Thong are above us and I hope we do everything to catch up.

 

Q- What are your expectations for the rest of the season?

A- We will be on top of Pattaya United thats for sure! I assume we will finish top 3.

 

Q- What would you do to improve the team?

A- Better scouting on players that we buy has to be done and also stop doing silly crosses and long balls, that gets us nowhere. We give the ball way to easily at times, we need to improve in our counter attacks and we seem to be too vulnerable when other teams are counter attacking us.

Q- If you could give coach Heng one piece of advice, what would it be?

A- All I can say is think of better tactics and new management might be needed. Something has obviously gone wrong this season. Also I think he needs to work on his decision making, he is an alright coach (better than Robbie Fowler at Muang Thong) but for some reason Heng seems to have lost it this season. Also I think we should try as hard as possible to hold on to our top players and get them to communicate with each other more.

 

Q- How do you keep in touch with Chonburi FC when you're away?

A- I do anything I can to do it. I subscribed to Thai tv in Norway just so I can watch the matches. Livescore and Twitter helps a lot. I have been watching a lot of the matches during my lectures, after all Chonburi FC is much more important.

 

Q- Would you rather be a world champion Muay Thai fighter or score the winning goal for Chonburi in an AFC Champions League final?

A- Score the winning goal for Chonburi FC in a AFC CL final, without a shadow of a doubt. Chonburi FC is more than a club for me and I dream of that moment everyday.

 

Q- Anything else you'd like to add?

A- Suree Sukha is a traitor and I hope he struggles at Buriram Utd. Another thing is that I can't wait for Pattaya United to get relegated, it will be a very happy day when it happens.

Chonburi Fan Profile - Tobi: 2009

A profile of Chonburi fan, Tobi, from August, 2009.

Name : Tobi 

Nationality : German 

Q : Which was your 1st Chonburi match? 

I am not sure, but it was in 2008. I think it was a home match against Chula. At least the Chula match was one of my first. 

Q : Why did you start supporting Chonburi? 

I have been interested in football for nearly 25 years. Even though I have lived for some time in Thailand, I was still following my "home" team (Borussia Dortmund) via the internet and TV. But after a while I got in touch with the Thai Football. I started to watch the Thai national team and met a lot of guys cheering and loving Thai football. I started to look for the Thai League fixtures and saw that one match was in Chonburi. 

At this time I was living near Pattaya, so it was very close to my home. I really liked the people there and the atmosphere and I was sure that I would keep going. 

Q : Who is your favourite current Chonburi player? 

There is no favourite player for me. The team is my favourite. 

Q : Which has been your most memorable Chonburi match? 

There have been a few. The away match in the AFC Cup in Hanoi was a great trip and a lot of fun. Then the away match against Samut Songram this season. There was really heavy rain at the end. Till (my friend) and I were driving back only in underwear. Since that match we keep a bag of dry clothes so we can change in the car. 

Q : Which trophies do you think we will win this season? 

Kone will get the trophy for the most goals... 

Q : What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club? 

It's great. It's a really huge family. It's hard to explain... In Europe you often have lots of groups within a team's fan club and every group want to be the best group, or something special. In Chonburi you have also these groups, but they all respect and like each other... 

Q : Why do you think that Thai football has suddenly become so popular? 

They have started to promote it more professionally. Thai people are interested in football, they just have to get them interested in local football. And actually, I think that this is just the beginning ... 

Q : Which other teams (Thai or foreign) do you support? 

Dortmund. Till I die! 

Q : Anything else you'd like to add? 

Just a big thank you to all the Chonburi FC Supporters and all the beer I've been given. A big thank you to all the Thai football supporters. A big thank you to all the foreign supporters in Thailand, especially to Nigel who is doing great work helping to promote Thai football and of course a big thank you to Mr Dale and Nui.

Chonburi Fan Profile - Phil Larkin: 2009

A profile of Chonburi fan, Phil Larkin, from October, 2009.

Name: Philip Alan Larkin
Nationality: I'm English and I come from the People's Republic of Middlesbrough

Q: Where do you live?
Naklua, Pattaya.

Q: Which was you first Chonburi game?
Being someone who promises a lot and rarely delivers, it was never my intention to fall in love with the Sharks. However, on a September evening in 2008, I did fall in love with them. I think Arthit scored early and we passed the opposition to death, but for the life of me I cannot remember who it was against.

Q: Why did you start supporting Chonburi?
Until Pattaya United came around, Chonburi was the closest place to watch top flight football so it was a no-brainer! The atmosphere and generosity of the fans made up for the appalling refereeing! And being a Middlesbrough fan, I will gladly chase any chance to become a "Glory Hunter"!

Q: Which other teams do you support?
Middlesbrough, Grangetown Boys Club and England. From a very early age, all three teams were drummed into me and I am glad they were because it has given me a very good grounding in life. Grangetown Boys Club was the team I played for as a youngster and my Dad managed the Senior team. England, purely because I am from there. And finally, Middlesbrough. Only something pure and totally beautiful, could get away with causing me so much harm.

I did not speak for four days after the League Cup Final defeat against Leicester and got the sack from Mothercare the year when I skipped work to go to the League Cup Final against Chelsea. I did get reinstated, no one else would get dressed up as a giant tree and stand outside to be punched by small children! But I love the Boro with every sinue of my being and I hope and pray that we get some success again soon.

Q: Who is your favourite Chonburi player?
Last year it was Pipob for sure, however I haven't been as impressed this season. Kone is either the best player in the world, or the worst, and Arthit could be a decent player if someone gave him a rocket and he applied himself for ninety minutes. However, this season the three players that have impressed me most have been Ekaphan, Micheal Byrne and Adul. I think these three could actually play at quite a high level.

Q: Which has been your most memorable match?
Seeing as Clint has already taken the Bangkok University game, which was awesome, I shall opt for the 3-2 win over SriRacha. Kosin got sent off and we were pulled back to 2-2. But Zico gambled and went for the win, and Ekaphan squeezed one in at the death.

In addition, I would also like to mention the 3-0 win against PEA Ayutthya. I spent the second half of the game dressed as a giant blue Shark, getting beaten up by small children and sweating profusely. However, I did get a nice round of applause and had a cold Fanta waiting for me when I got back!

Q: Can we win the league in 2010?
Yes!

Q: What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club? Truly awesome! Well organised and welcoming. You cannot ask for more.

Q: Why do you think Chonburi have been so successful?
Well, they haven't won a trophy since I've been going so I am not a glory hunter! However, as with anything worth creating, it takes time. There appears to have been a natural evolution and it is evolving into something pretty big. If the clubs in the TPL can take on "Football in the Community" type projects within their local areas, I can see it only going further.

Muang Thong are getting mega crowds and Chonburi pull in large numbers on a regular basis so the potential is certainly there. Therefore, with the development of other stadia and clubs, the whole of the TPL can become massive, never mind just one or two clubs. In addition, there are a lot of very wealthy people in this country so they should start putting their hands in their pockets. You cannot spend it when you are dead!

Q: Do you have a message for the Chonburi fans?
Yes. I love you all. Thank you for allowing me into your lives.

Chonburi Fan Profile - Clint Falcus: 2009

A profile of Chonburi fan, Clint Falcus, from October, 2009.

Name : Clint Falcus
Nationality : English

Q : Where do you live?
Currently in Bucharest, Romania

Q : Which was your 1st Chonburi match?
Do you know? I can't remember... it would have been a home match in 2008. And it would have been good.

Q : Why did you start supporting Chonburi?
Peer pressure... To be honest I'd been out in Thailand a while and had heard literally nothing of Thai football. A friend of mine is an ardent supporter and I was interested to see what went on. I wasn't expecting much, not much at all but I was blown away by the professionalism, the ambition and potential and mostly the atmosphere; not just from the fans, but the honesty and warmth of the players that comes across, something I don't believe that you get in many leagues anymore these days.

Q : Which other teams -Thai or foreign- do you support?
Mainly Newcastle, and my interest and enjoyment has recently surged no longer being a part of the nonsensical circus that is the English Premier League. Also, occasionally Reading as it was my home town back in England, convenience supporting...

Q : Who is your favourite current Chonburi player?
I always has a soft spot for Pipob... maybe because I am fairly large and he is so small... Maybe because we play with contrasting styles; me with more than a modicum of physical presence (I was once dubbed 'Ram Raider') and he has an exquisite touch. But also because he works hard and is surprisingly good in the air for one so diminutive. I appreciate that he must work hard on areas of the game which aren't his natural strengths...

Q : Which has been your most memorable Chonburi match so far?
Without doubt it would be the match away against Bangkok University in September 2008. In fact I think it is the most memorable match I've ever been to anywhere. We were losing but came back to win 3-2. Not only a great football match, but at half time we were treated to the greatest display of acrobatics from the cheerleaders. I don't think I'm alone in having etched this into my memory.

Q : Do you think we can still win the league?
It is hard to say having left Thailand back in June... though this website provides me with some idea of form... I think we should win the league... I think that last season a lack of form, particularly scoring goals towards the tail end of the season cost us the title, I don't see a repeat of that happening again and a strong finish will see us be Champions again. If so I'll be celebrating wherever I may be...

Q : What do you think about the Chonburi Fan Club?
Most fan clubs probably don't have that much to do with the club other than organising buses. For me Chonburi is all about the fan club and the fans.

Q : Why do you think that Chonburi have been so successful?
I think because they have taken their time and structured the club properly. Starting at the bottom and slowly drawing people in with an improving team and promotion, culminating in winning the league. An organic growth. If they were an American sports team they would have made a film about them.

Q : Finally, is there anything you'd like to say to the other Chonburi fans?
Never have I been anywhere in the world where I have been made to feel more welcome. Except maybe at my Mum's house. Oh, and thanks for sharing all the beer.