Two prominent figures in Thai volleyball were bestowed with the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB)`s highest honor on Saturday. The ceremony took place during the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women`s World Championship, notably the first edition of this tournament ever hosted in Southeast Asia.
Somporn Chaibangyang, President of the Thailand Volleyball Association, and Shanrit Wongprasert, Honorary Life Vice President of the Asian Volleyball Confederation, each received the FIVB Grand Cross. This prestigious award recognizes their extensive contributions to the development of volleyball, not only within Thailand but also across Asia and on a global scale.
Established in 1998, the FIVB Grand Cross is presented to individuals who have made an extraordinary impact on the sports of volleyball and beach volleyball. This year`s presentation was led by FIVB President Fabio Azevedo during a special ceremony held at Huamark Stadium in Bangkok.
Under Chaibangyang’s leadership, Thailand has achieved a notable presence on the international stage. The women`s national team has reached historic success, inspiring a new generation of athletes. His efforts have significantly strengthened the Thailand Volleyball Association and expanded opportunities for the sport nationwide.
He has held the presidency of the Thailand Volleyball Association since 2011 and was re-elected for a sixth consecutive term earlier this year. At 75, he also presides over the Southeast Asia Volleyball Association and is a member of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League Council. His current mandate includes overseeing Thailand`s preparations as the host of the 2025 Women’s World Championship and continuing national youth programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of players.
Wongprasert`s decades of dedicated service within the Asian Volleyball Confederation and the broader international community have established him as a pivotal figure in regional development. His guiding influence in major competitions and unwavering support for national federations have left a lasting legacy throughout Asia.
Wongprasert began his journey in volleyball as a player, competing initially as an outside hitter and subsequently as a setter for the Thailand national team. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching at the university, club, and national levels before moving into administration. For 30 years, he served as Secretary General of the Thailand Volleyball Association and joined the FIVB Board of Administration in 1992, while also holding senior positions within the Asian Volleyball Confederation.
He later became the Executive Director of the AVC and was appointed Honorary Life President of both the Asian and Thai volleyball federations. His extensive service was recognized with the Olympic Council of Asia’s Merit Award in 2019, and in 2023, he was inducted into the International Volleyball Hall of Fame, making him the first Thai to receive this esteemed honor.
The awards were presented during the 20th edition of the Women’s World Championship, which brought together world-class teams to compete across four host cities in Thailand. This tournament represents a significant milestone for the sport, effectively showcasing both the fervent passion of Southeast Asian fans and the nation`s robust capability to host top-tier international events.
The recognition of Chaibangyang and Wongprasert further elevated the success of a historic World Championship in Thailand, highlighting their enduring influence on the sport and the country`s crucial role in the expansion of volleyball across Asia and globally.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood