01 November 2025

In Thailand, faith and friendship meet in Catholic sportsfest

By Pham Ngo Hoang Dung SJ
Categories: Education, Province News

Some 80 university students from across Thailand gathered at the Mae Taeng Center in Chiang Mai from 17 to 19 October for Sports Friendship 2025—a weekend filled with energy, teamwork, and joy.

Participants from Bangkok, Tak, Lampang, Lamphun, Phayao, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai came together not only to compete but also to strengthen their bonds of friendship and faith. The event kicked off on Friday evening with ice-breaking games and an e-sport competition, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere where students could get to know one another.

Saturday was dedicated to outdoor sports at Mae Taeng School, featuring football, takraw, and volleyball. The day also included a morning Mass, shared meals, and evening group presentations in which each team introduced their groups and shared their experiences. Laughter, cheers, and the spirit of fair play filled the air from morning till night.

On Sunday, participants joined in a closing Mass and enjoyed traditional games before the final football and volleyball matches. The event concluded with an award ceremony and a joyful group photo.

As everyone returned home — tired but happy — it was clear that this year’s sports weekend fostered not only friendships but also a sense of shared mission among young people.

As one student reflected:

“It was a truly valuable experience. It brought us together to learn, connect, and build closer friendships. These friendships will be an important foundation for our growth into creative, courageous, and proactive young people.

“As members of Generation Z, I truly believe in the power of determination in helping us develop ourselves and our society towards a better, more meaningful future—becoming capable youth who can make a positive difference in the world.”

 

Watch highlights of Sports Friendship 2025:

Pham Ngo Hoang Dung SJ

The Author

Pham Ngo Hoang Dung SJ

Fr Pham Ngo Hoang Dung SJ, known to all as Dzung, is a young Vietnamese Jesuit missionary in Thailand.

He is currently the university chaplain of the Catholic Student Network in the North of Thailand and director of the Seven Fountains Scholarship Fund (SFSF).

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