From Faith in Sports to Creating Great Opportunities for Children
The Story of “Ajarn Yongyut Kongmuang,” Founder of the Kratai Moon Foundation
Mr. Yongyut Kongmuang was born on November 1, 1952, and grew up with a deep passion for sports, especially Muay Thai and Judo. His athletic journey was marked by dedication, leading him to win a gold medal in Muay Thai in the welterweight division (under 67 kg) and to achieve the rank of “6th Dan Black Belt in Judo,” a distinction held by fewer than ten people in Thailand.
From Fighter to International Coach
Ajarn Yongyut’s life journey did not stop at being an athlete. He continued as a physical education teacher at Siyanuson School in Chanthaburi for over 30 years, sharing his knowledge in physical education, athletics, Muay Thai, basketball, and Judo. His dedication earned him recognition as an “Outstanding Physical Education Teacher” at both provincial and national levels.
Later, Ajarn Yongyut took on the role of Judo coach for athletes both in his province and on the Thai national team, guiding them through major competitions at home and abroad, including the SEA Games, Asian Championships, and many other international tournaments. Yet beyond medals and honors, he realized that sports not only build the body but also instill discipline, shape the mind, and create life opportunities.
Over 40 Years in Sports Leading to the Beginning of the Foundation
Throughout his lifelong journey in sports, Ajarn Yongyut Kongmuang realized with conviction that “Sports… are not just about training the body, but a pathway to transforming lives.” Sports can shape the mind, build discipline, ignite dreams, and guide young people toward a stable life while becoming individuals society can be proud of.
From 2012 to the present
Ajarn Yongyut has opened his own home in Chanthaburi as a youth Judo training camp free of charge, preparing young athletes for various competitions both in Thailand and abroad, such as the Thailand Youth Championships, National Youth Games, and National Games. Over the years, this small training camp has become more than just a place to practice. It has turned into a “home” filled with smiles, hope, and the fighting spirit of children determined to change their lives through the power of sports. From the role of a “coach,” Ajarn gradually became like a “father” whom the children trusted and relied upon.
Building Futures, Advancing Sports with the Kratai Hope Foundation
The journey of developing Judo athletes entered a new chapter when a small training camp became the starting point for establishing the foundation, dedicated to the sustainable growth of athletes. Founded through Ajarn Yongyut’s vision, the foundation was created to expand opportunities, nurture potential, and build a strong path in sports for the next generation and those in need.
Objectives of the Foundation’s Operations
- To promote and develop martial arts such as Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Jujitsu, and MMA at both national and international levels.
- To support underprivileged children, youth, and people by providing scholarships, living assistance, and opportunities to compete, enabling them to develop into stable careers.
- To provide assistance to individuals, organizations, or educational institutions through scholarships, equipment, or any resources that promote the development of combat sports.
- To build cooperation with institutions both domestic and international for the development and organization of martial arts competitions in all forms.
Many children have grown to become national athletes, while others have continued to learn from Ajarn and built stable, successful lives. This has given rise to a strong and sustainable “sports community,” filled with inspiring stories passed down from generation to generation.
At present, Ajarn Yongyut Kongmuang is driving the Kratai Moon Foundation to become a place where young people are nurtured to grow both as athletes and as valuable members of society. The foundation is currently building a training hall and expanding its facilities to provide children with greater access to sports and education.
The foundation also offers free Judo classes to plant the seeds of the future, while inviting everyone to support through scholarships, sports equipment, or donations — helping build a brighter future and transform the lives of Thai youth to grow with strength and sustainability.
Sports are the power of hope — creating opportunities for growth.
We believe in the power of sports as a valuable tool to shape minds, attitudes, and instill values in children’s hearts. We are committed to nurturing “athletes at heart” — those who rise again after falling, refuse to surrender to fate, and step forward with strength. We encourage them to use sports as a driving force to turn dreams into careers, build livelihoods, and create better lives, growing into a positive force that gives back to society in a lasting way.
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