Bangkok, Thailand, March 29, 2005 – Thailand women’s coach Nutthapol Srisamutnak admits that it is difficult to predict if his side can reach the final round of the Volleyball World Championships for the third successive time.

Having reached the final phase of the World Championships in 2002 and 1998, Srisamutnak’s says the fast-improving tactics of rival teams will make for a very interesting 2006 Women’s World Championship first round tournament (Asia Pool B), which will be held in Thailand from August 1-5.
Pic: Thailand's Patcharee Saengmuang on the attack against Korea during the 2004 World Grand Prix
Thailand, ranked 17th in the world, will play off with Korea (ranked 8th), Kazakhstan (ranked 32nd), the Philippines (ranked 46th) and Tonga (who aren’t officially ranked) where the top two teams will advance to the final round in Japan.

“An uphill task awaits us,” Srisamutnak said. “Korea is always a step ahead. Their experience and form is much greater and I think it’s very difficult to beat them. However, if my girls play without pressure and mistakes, I think we stand a chance to beat the Koreans as we once did in the 2004 World Grand Prix.”

“Kazakhstan is also one of the strong teams to be reckoned with. To beat them is not as easy as before. They have also beaten us a few times including during last year’s Princess Cup on Thai soil. It’s good proof that they are improving quickly.

“The Philippines is another team we can’t overlook. If their team remain unchanged, I’m convinced that we can beat them without much effort. However, I heard that some US-based Filipinos are determined to join the team. If so, we will have another tough contest with them.

“Tonga is the only team we have yet to see play so I have no background on their team. It’s difficult to say if we can beat them comfortably or if they will be a tough nut to crack.

“However, I think playing before the home fans will give us a huge boost. To finish in the top two in the tournament is not an impossible mission for my girls. If we try our best, a chance to reach the final round in Japan could be within reach.”

From Preechachan Wiriyanupappong
AVC's South East Asian Zone Press Officer