Along with the well-known national athletes, 256 students from 128 educational institutions across the country have been chosen by the Games' Public Relation Committee as Universiade ambassadors, tasked with the job of promoting the event to the public.

Thai national football forward Leesaw, who once spent a short spell at Crystal Palace as a youth team player, and badminton star Boonsak were among the audience at a sash presentation ceremony presided over by Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont at the Santi Maitree Building in Government House yesterday.

Surayud, who handed out the sash to Leesaw and Boonsak, said he appreciated the strong determination of students in taking up such an important role to promote the tournament, not only to Thais, but to the world.

"The important job of being the Games' ambassadors is to make the people aware that Thailand will host one of the world's big sporting events, and to play the role of good hosts. Although it appears to be easy work, it requires dedication to make it successful," Surayud said.

"These students are a fine example for the young to follow in their footsteps. I'm confident they will do the job to the best of their ability and make the Games, which is the being held for the first time in our country, successful," he said.

Leesaw appeared to have adjusted quickly to his new role, urging Thai people to behave like good hosts.

"Although I have been selected to be one of representatives in doing promotional work, I would like everyone to think that they are all the country's ambassadors.

"I would like all Thai people to play their part in welcoming the participants, to let them know that Thailand is a good place to come, and erase any bad images caused by many ongoing problems," Leesaw said.

Kitinan Sanguansak

The Nation