During my tenure at the Sport Association for the Disabled of Thailand, I often heard about Korea’s remarkable achievements in parasport development. My supervisors and colleagues who had visited Korea or attended training camps there would return with stories of how advanced and well-structured their systems and facilities were. These accounts left a lasting impression on me, fueling my desire to witness it firsthand.
As part of the 11th Batch of the DTM program, I had the extraordinary opportunity to visit the Korea Paralympic Committee (KPC) Icheon Training Center, now recognized as the Asian Paralympic Committee’s Centre of Excellence. This visit was not only a personal milestone but also a source of inspiration for my association. Currently we are in the process of constructing a one-stop training center for parasports in Thailand. We aspire to create a facility that mirrors the professionalism and efficiency of Icheon.
Walking through the Icheon Training Center, I was in awe of the world-class facilities and state-of-the-art equipment. The center is designed with inclusivity and convenience in mind, enabling athletes with disabilities to navigate seamlessly. I could vividly imagine how training in such an environment would boost performance and morale. The centralized setup eliminates transportation challenges, which are a significant barrier for many athletes with disabilities. One of the most striking aspects of the Icheon Training Center is its integrated approach to fostering teamwork and discipline. Particularly during the critical periods like pre-mega events such as the Asian Para Games or the Paralympics. Training halls for various sports are situated adjacent to one another. The athletes from different disciplines come together for meals in a shared cafeteria. The main hall, adorned with displays showcasing Team Korea’s legacy and achievements, serves as a powerful source of inspiration for all who enter.
When we visited, the center was after the Paris 2024 Paralympics. The facilities were still decorated to simulate the atmosphere of Paris. This is to ensure that the athletes would be familiar with the environment and face minimal distractions during the competition. This attention to detail demonstrates the center’s commitment to athlete readiness.
Another noteworthy feature is the accommodation, which is directly connected to the training center. This ensures that athletes have easy access to their training facilities. What truly sets Icheon apart is its in-house sports science and medical departments. For athletes with disabilities, who often face challenges with transportation and emergencies, having these essential services on-site is invaluable.
In contrast, Thailand still has a long way to go. Our training centers are scattered and often adapted from facilities designed for able-bodied athletes. However, my visit to the Icheon Training Center has reinforced my belief that we can achieve similar excellence with determination and collaboration.
The experience was not only enlightening but also motivating. It has strengthened my resolve to contribute to the development of parasport in Thailand and to advocate for inclusive, centralized training facilities that empower our athletes to reach their full potential.
By Pann Na Nakorn(11th Batch)
