Thai-born goalkeeper Poomraphee Siribunyakul played a pivotal role in leading Kashima Gakuen High School to its best-ever result — a runner-up finish — at the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, held from December to January.
Although Kashima Gakuen lost the final to Kamimura Gakuen High School, 17-year-old Poomraphee felt a strong sense of fulfillment. “It was a great experience for me,” he said.
Before the tournament, Kashima Gakuen of Ibaraki Prefecture was not considered a serious contender. Yet, backed by a solid defense that conceded only two goals in four matches from the first round through the quarterfinals, the team advanced to the semifinals for the first time in 17 tournaments, matching the school’s deepest run in the annual competition.