Thai cheerleader Taew Dangde inspires at sports events worldwide
Thailand’s national sports cheerleader, Thao Dak Dae, known for his vibrant Thai costumes and face painted with the national flag, has become a beloved figure at both local and international sporting events. His journey from an advertising actor to the iconic leader of Thai cheer squads is a tale of passion and perseverance.
Thao Dak Dae, originally named Bancha Khamthong first gained fame through a PTT advertisement where he played a lead role. Additionally, his appearances in supporting roles in television dramas, such as The Three Seasons, where he portrayed the character Matulee, further cemented his presence in the entertainment industry.
A graduate of Ramkhamhaeng University, Thao Dak Dae’s passion for cheerleading started during his school days when he led school sports teams with energetic enthusiasm.
His first major cheerleading event was the Southeast Asian Games held in Chiang Mai. Dressed in a distinctive lead costume, he quickly became a familiar face among sports fans. From then on, he consistently cheered for various sports, including football, volleyball, and sepak takraw, drawing from his childhood love of sports.
In 2008, during the Asian Beach Games, Thao Dak Dae faced financial challenges. Determined to support the Thai athletes, he raised funds and travelled with his cheerleading team, often finding refuge in the games’ kitchen departments.
By 2010, for the Asian Games and Asian Para Games in China, he released a music album titled Simaka Samakkhi to fund his travels and support the Thai national team.
Personal sacrifices
Thao Dak Dae often had to make personal sacrifices to continue his cheerleading mission. He shared instances of selling his car, pawning possessions, and saving costs by staying in Thai temples or with fellow Thais abroad. On one occasion during the Asian Games in South Korea, he had to share a cramped space with journalists, even sleeping in a wardrobe due to lack of space.
Despite these hardships, Thao Dak Dae remains committed to his role. He reflected on his two-decade journey, starting from the Southeast Asian Games in Chiang Mai during his Ramkhamhaeng University days.
He expressed his desire to be an athlete, but when that dream didn’t materialise, he chose to support from the sidelines instead. His dedication has even extended to cheering for disabled athletes, who have voiced their appreciation for his morale-boosting presence.
When we hear his cheering, it gives us the strength to continue as said a visually impaired athlete, highlighting the impact of Thao Dak Dae’s support.
Currently, Thao Dak Dae serves as a committee member of the Sports Association for the Intellectual Disabled of Thailand and as a subcommittee member of the Senate Sports Commission. His unique cheerleading style and unwavering dedication have not only made him a symbol of Thai sportsmanship but also earned him international recognition, reported Khaosod.
