Bangkok: Six young Thai footballers participating in the GLO STAR program, organized by the Government Lottery Office in collaboration with the Thai Football Development Foundation, have departed Thailand for Japan to participate in a six-month football training program with Avispa Fukuoka, a leading team in the J-League. The atmosphere before departure was filled with smiles and encouragement from the families of the six players, who came to send their children off to this important milestone in their lives. Also present were Lieutenant Colonel Noon Sansanakom, Director of the Government Lottery Office, and "The Tuk" Air Force Colonel Piyapong Pue-on, President of the Thai Football Development Foundation, who came to personally see them off and offer encouragement.
According to Thai News Agency, the GLO STAR project is part of the 'GLO Cup 2025' 8-a-side youth football competition, aiming to provide equal opportunities for youth from across the country to showcase their potential. It begins with the selection of U-13 and U-15 footballers from over 15,000 applicants in 7 regions nationwide. Fifteen players from each age group will then be selected, totaling 30, to participate in a 14-day training camp from October 3-16, 2025, at the Khlong Luang Lake Arena.
Through a rigorous selection process, a list of three of the most promising players from each age group, totaling six players, was chosen to travel to Japan to train with Avispa Fukuoka. The GLO STAR Under 13 team consists of Sorachai Pharunai from Kanthararom School, Kritsada Buakhajorn from Assumption Thonburi School, and Irfan Dolah from Kumpee Wittaya School. The GLO STAR Under 15 years old team consists of Pattarakorn Eiam-amphorn from Khlong Khon Academy, Kalawat Duangklang from Pichyabundit University, and Teerapol Khamklam from Nakhon Sawan Municipality Sports.
Lieutenant Colonel Noon Sansanakom, Director of the Government Lottery Office (GLO), revealed, 'Today is a day I feel very proud of, because this is the result of seriously providing opportunities. From competing on a domestic stage to training with a professional J-League club in Japan for 6 months, these six children are clear evidence that the opportunities we talked about in the GLO Cup can indeed happen.'
He emphasized that the six GLO STARs coming from various provinces across the country clearly reflects that talent is not limited to certain areas. The GLO Cup is designed to provide equal opportunities for youth from all regions to showcase their potential. The collaboration with top clubs like Avispa Fukuoka, who personally selected the players, is a testament to the international recognition that these young footballers have achieved.
He also offered advice to the six young footballers, saying, "I want you to make the most of this opportunity. Learn both on and off the field, not just about football, but also about discipline, responsibility, and living like a professional athlete. The experience in Japan will be a crucial foundation for your future growth."
He further shared a message with Thai youth across the country, saying, "I want all Thai youth to believe that dreams can come true if they are determined and given the right opportunities. GLO Cup is a platform that opens up opportunities for children nationwide, and we want to see the next generation of youth rise up and seize those opportunities for themselves."