Sakkarat Sriiam, a dedicated figure in Thailand’s para-sports community, has played a pivotal role in advancing sitting volleyball both nationally and regionally. With a deep-rooted passion for supporting athletes with disabilities, he has served as assistant coach of the Thailand national team, contributing significantly to the team’s strategic growth and competitive success. His leadership behind the scenes includes organizing training camps, managing logistics for international tournaments, and helping shape long-term development plans. Through his efforts, the Thai team has achieved notable success, including a gold medal at the 2023 ASEAN Para Games—an inspiring milestone after a 12-year wait. Guided by influential mentors and driven by a commitment to empowerment, Sakkarat continues to champion the growth of sitting volleyball with heart, vision, and resilience.
1 – How did you get involved in Sitting Volleyball?
I became involved in sitting volleyball out of a deep passion for sports and a strong desire to support para-athletes. Along this journey, I have had the great honor of working with world-class figures such as Mr. Alireza Moameri, a legendary coach in the sport, and Mr. Tu Weiping, a dedicated leader who has devoted everything to the development of sitting volleyball. Their inspiration and leadership have motivated me to continue contributing—both on and off the court—to help elevate the sport in Thailand and the region.
2 – What is it that motivates you each day to further develop our sport?
What motivates me each day to further develop sitting volleyball is my deep love for the sport and my desire to support para-athletes in reaching their full potential. The r passion has shown me what’s possible when you commit yourself fully, and that keeps me going. I want to keep building something meaningful—for the athletes, the community, and the future of the sport in Thailand and beyond.
3 – What has been your biggest achievement in Sitting Volleyball to date?
My biggest achievement in sitting volleyball to date is helping the Thailand women’s national team win the Gold Medal at the 2023 ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia—a title we hadn’t claimed in 12 years. What makes it even more meaningful is that we started from very humble beginnings, training in a small room with limited resources for lady team. As an assistant coach, I worked closely with the athletes and staff to build a strong foundation, overcome challenges, and prepare the team physically and mentally. Seeing the team rise from those early days to become champions was incredibly rewarding and remains my proudest moment.
4 – How would you explain Sitting Volleyball to someone in 12 words or less?
My advice to anyone wanting to develop sitting volleyball in their region is to start with passion, patience, and a clear vision. Begin with what you have, even if it’s small—a basic space, a few athletes, or limited equipment. Focus on building strong relationships with your players and community. Collaboration is key—connect with schools, rehabilitation centers, or local authorities to raise awareness and support. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance from international experts. Most importantly, believe in the potential of your athletes. With consistency and heart, even small beginnings can grow into something great.
5 – Where/how do you see Sitting Volleyball in 10 years time?
Sitting volleyball: No standing, all heart-fire on the floor!
6 – Where/how do you see Sitting Volleyball in 10 years’ time?
A game where ability matters, not disability.
The ‘Movers & Shakers’ initiative is aimed at giving more recognition to those that are developing Sitting Volleyball around the globe.
It can be anyone working in the sport, whether they have excelled at promoting it, ran a successful competition, started a new club/activity, organised events to increase awareness, influenced people for the greater benefit of the sport or a combination of the above.
Please do let us know if you know of someone who deserves to be highlighted by e-mailing
volleyslide@worldparavolley.org with the following:
- Full name
- e-mail address
- Country in which they mainly work
- A short justification of why you are putting them forward
Their story will also offer others a chance for others to learn from their good practise and use what works in their area for even greater benefit. This is your chance to give recognition to those who promote and build the sport of sitting volleyball. We look forward to hearing from you.