Big Mhong Re-elected for Third Term as Squash Association President with Club Support

Chalitrat Jantarubeeksa, known as "Big Mhong," has been re-elected for a third term as president of the Thai Squash Association, Royal Patronage. He is prepared to continue developing youth squash athletes from the regions and will introduce a Pakistani foreign coach to reinforce the national team.

The Thai Squash Association, Royal Patronage, held its 2026 annual general meeting on April 30 at the Fueang Fah Conference Room, Golden Tulip Sofferine Hotel in Bangkok. The key agenda item was electing a new association president following the completion of Chalitrat Jantarubeeksa's second term. The election proceeded smoothly, with Chalitrat being the sole nominee for a third term and receiving unanimous support from club members within minutes.

Chalitrat expressed gratitude to all club members, the committee, staff, and athletes who supported his nomination. He committed to fully executing his duties to advance Thai squash sports. He will continue the existing policy of expanding and developing squash as a grassroots sport among youth to develop more athletes. The association has faced a shortage of competitive athletes, limiting options for international advancement. In the past year, the association has partnered with multiple educational institutions and schools, allocating budget to build squash courts at educational facilities for training young athletes. Most recently, courts were donated to a school in Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi Province.

Chalitrat noted that while the association was fortunate to receive budget support from PTT Oil and Retail Company (OR), funding remains insufficient for continuous development, particularly in youth athlete creation. He pointed out that the main issue is inadequate state support through the Sports Development Fund and Thailand Sports Authority, with all sports associations experiencing budget cuts and insufficient funding for both national and international competitions. Nevertheless, the association will continue progressing and developing.

Akkarin Hiranyaprueksa, secretary-general of the Thai Squash Association, outlined the association's plans for the year. Beyond expanding youth athlete development, a key priority is sending athletes to compete at the Asian Games in Japan in September. The association has hired a Pakistani foreign coach, recognized for developing Malaysian squash athletes to continental prominence. He will oversee Thai athletes for six months through the Asian Games, helping develop technique, establish training systems, prepare teams, and advance athletes to the international level. If results are positive, collaboration may extend through the SEA Games in Malaysia in two years.