On 29 October 2025, the Khon Kaen University (KKU) sports delegation continued its outstanding performance during the qualifying rounds for the 51st Thailand University Games, known as the “Pho Lom Tal Games.” This regional tournament, held from 27 October to 3 November 2025, serves to select university representatives from the Northeastern region to compete in the main event, the “51st Thailand University Games (Inthanin Games),” which will take place at Maejo University, Chiang Mai, from 9 to 19 January 2026.

On the third day of competition, Khon Kaen University secured commendable victories in multiple events. In Women’s Futsal, the KKU team defeated Kalasin University with a decisive score of 8–1. The Women’s Basketball team also triumphed over Mahasarakham University, 53–38. Both the Men’s and Women’s Sepak Takraw teams maintained excellent form; the Women’s team overcame Rajamangala University of Technology Isan 2–0 sets, and the Men’s team likewise secured a 2–0 set victory over their opponents.

In the Petanque Mixed Doubles event, the KKU 1 team defeated Suranaree University of Technology 9–5 in the playoff round. Meanwhile, the KKU 2 team claimed victories over Nakhon Phanom University, Kalasin University, and Mahasarakham University with respective scores of 11–0, 11–2, and 11–3.

Furthermore, the KKU Men’s Volleyball team displayed powerful form, earning an impressive straight-set victory (3–0) over Kalasin University (25–19, 25–14, 25–16). The strong performance highlighted the collective energy, confidence, and excellent collaboration among players in all positions.

Mr. Atthachai Thepsuwan, the Manager of the Khon Kaen University Men’s Volleyball Team, stated that the tournament provided an opportunity to rotate the line-up, integrating both seasoned and new players. This move was intended specifically to allow first-year students to gain substantive experience competing on a national-level platform for the first time. He expressed satisfaction with the results, noting that the athletes played up to the team’s standard. He added that the team deployed a strategy focusing on stable serving to clinch crucial points and disrupt the opposition’s offence. This victory, he estimated, guarantees an 80% certainty that the team will secure a spot to compete further at the Inthanin Games at Maejo University.

Mr. Amarin Pongnoo, a fourth-year student from the Faculty of Agriculture and the team captain, remarked that their 3–0 set victory was a strong achievement. He acknowledged that despite the players having demanding academic schedules, they disciplined themselves to dedicate time for practice. Expressing delight over the win, he stated the team is confident about advancing to Maejo University. While they are not yet focused on winning medals, every player is committed to treating each match with seriousness and giving their absolute best. He called upon the university community to continue supporting and cheering for the KKU athletes in the forthcoming matches.

These successful results reflect the dedication and commitment of the Khon Kaen University athletes, who compete with the true spirit of sportsmanship. This effort is powerfully supported by the coaching staff and officials, who collaboratively motivate every athlete to realise their full potential, ensuring Khon Kaen University’s continued excellent reputation and pride on the stage of the Thailand University Games.

Photo : the 51st Thailand University Games Northeastern Regional Qualification Round