The Underdog Story of Monthongwittaya School
As the spotlight shines on Supachalasai National Stadium this Saturday, the focus will be on a little-known school from Chachoengsao, Monthongwittaya School. This secondary school in Bang Nam Prieo district has captured national attention after an incredible journey through the Student Football Sevens tournament.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, the school urged supporters to cheer and give their full backing: “Please cheer and give support for Monthongwittaya School.” Their campaign has resonated with fans across the country, as they have defied all odds to reach the final.
The team’s path to the final has been nothing short of remarkable. In Tuesday’s quarter-finals, they narrowly edged out the powerhouse Dhepsirin School with a score of 7-6. Then, on Thursday, they dethroned two-time former champions Assumption College Sriracha with a decisive 6-3 victory. Along the way, they also defeated the top-ranked Assumption College Thonburi.
Their opponents in Saturday’s decider are Chai Nat PAO, a team sponsored by the Provincial Administration Organisation in Chai Nat. Despite being considered outsiders, Monthongwittaya has proven that determination and heart can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
A Coach Who Believes in Dreams
One of the key figures behind this success is their coach, Sakol Kliengprasert. Known for his unwavering dedication, he personally drives an aging school songthaew to ferry his players approximately 70 kilometers to matches – and back – while bigger schools arrive in luxury buses. This simple yet powerful gesture has become a symbol of the team’s underdog spirit.
The story of the team, their coach, and the old songthaew has gone viral, winning the hearts of netizens. Some have called it “the bus of dream chasers,” while others have said, “this old songthaew has overtaken every other bus in the contest.”
Mr. Sakol explains his approach: “If you want your kids to dare to dream, you have to take them to the pitch first.” His belief in the power of dreams has clearly paid off, as his team now stands just one match away from the trophy.
A Legacy of Success
Sakol’s achievements extend beyond this season. Previously, he led Surasakmontree School to three titles in the same tournament – in 2015, 2017, and 2018. After retiring, he was hired to train a team in Chai Nat before being approached by Monthongwittaya to build a football team from scratch three years ago. His efforts have now culminated in this historic final appearance.
“Your support will help our kids to run until they drop,” he said before Thursday’s match against Assumption College Sriracha. His words reflect the deep bond between the coach and his players, as well as the community that supports them.
A Journey Fueled by Passion
What makes this story even more compelling is the fact that Monthongwittaya School has only 523 students, dwarfed by larger institutions like Dhepsirin and Assumption College Sriracha. Yet, their passion and perseverance have brought them to the brink of glory in the Channel 7-hosted competition.
On Saturday, a convoy of buses packed with fans from Bang Nam Prieo will once again trail behind the school’s iconic songthaew to Supachalasai National Stadium. This tradition has followed them through every match so far, symbolizing the unity and support that has propelled them this far.
The Final Matchup
As the final approaches, all eyes will be on the clash between Monthongwittaya School and Chai Nat PAO. This matchup is not only a battle of skill but also a testament to the power of dreams and hard work. For the students of Monthongwittaya, this moment represents the culmination of years of effort, sacrifice, and belief in themselves.
Whether they win or lose, their journey has already inspired countless people. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the underdogs can achieve the extraordinary. And for those who follow their story, it’s a celebration of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship.