Ms. Yanisa Sonthong, a student in the Physical Education programme at the Faculty of Education and an athlete within the Khon Kaen University Excellence in Sports Development Project, has brought honour to the University and the nation by securing a silver medal in the Women’s Team Kumite (Karate) event. The feat took place during the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 2025) on 12 December 2025 at the 80th Birthday Anniversary Commemoration Government Complex, 5 December 2007, in Bangkok.

Reflecting on her journey to this achievement, Ms. Yanisa Sonthong, affectionately known as ‘Nong Pingping’, revealed that her path began with accumulating experience in various levels of competition, including university sports, Thailand National Championships, and international events. This was coupled with rigorous selection processes and intensive training camps for the national team—a process demanding high levels of skill, discipline, and perseverance.

During the national team training period, Ms. Yanisa had to strictly manage her time between academic commitments as a Khon Kaen University student and the demanding national training schedule at Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok. She maximised every available moment, from waking up early for practice and warm-ups before class, to training with the University’s Karate Club in the evening, and travelling back to the gym or national camp for additional sessions when her academic timetable permitted.

Regarding the atmosphere at the SEA Games, Ms. Yanisa described the competition as intense and stressful, featuring key athletes from various countries. While she had previously faced and defeated some opponents, she remained focused, mindful, and emotionally controlled, which she felt was half the battle. The other half involved taking decisive action on the mat and fully committing to scoring points to defeat her rivals.

Although the result—a silver medal—did not match her highest target, Ms. Yanisa expressed immense pride and delight, noting that she had given her absolute maximum effort without regret. She extended her heartfelt thanks to all her coaches and instructors, especially ‘Kru Taew’, who mentored her since childhood, as well as friends and juniors at the gym, the Karate Association of Thailand, the association president, the national team coaches, campmates, and the sports scientists and psychologists who provided close support.

Furthermore, she thanked the Khon Kaen University Sports Division and all lecturers in her department for their unwavering support in terms of scholarships, training facilities, and academic accommodation. Crucially, she thanked her family for being her main source of encouragement, and herself for never giving up despite the obstacles along the way.

Ms. Yanisa views this SEA Games medal as a monumental reward, as competing in the SEA Games had been a lifelong dream and provided an opportunity to give back to the nation as a Thai athlete. Her future goal is to enhance her potential to win a SEA Games gold medal and subsequently advance to the Asian Games level.

“To my juniors who look to me for inspiration in both sports and academics, I believe nothing is impossible if you set a goal and dare to pursue it. You must manage your time effectively, ensure you don’t neglect your studies, and consistently build upon your achievements. Determination, diligence, and endurance are the vital energies that lead to long-term success,” she concluded.

Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialization, expressed her admiration for the athlete’s success. She stated that the University is extremely proud of Ms. Yanisa Sonthong, who entered KKU through the Excellence in Sports Development Project (often termed the ‘White Elephant Athlete’ programme). This achievement underscores the University’s commitment and success in supporting talented youth to enter the Modindaeng (KKU) campus, fostering quality individuals who excel in both academics and sports.

Securing a silver medal at the SEA Games 2025 brings great honour to the athlete, her family, Khon Kaen University, and the nation. Khon Kaen University is prepared and determined to continue its integrated support for these ‘White Elephant Athletes’, producing high-potential young athletes who develop into professional competitors and continuously bring recognition to Thailand in the future.