Shared Sports Facilities for All: A Hub for Sustainable Sports and Community Growth 

Shared Sports Facilities for All: A Hub for Sustainable Sports and Community Growth 

Most local communities have faced challenges on accessing sports facilities and exercise spaces, particularly in local schools surrounding the university and among the general public who lack sufficient budgets to provide modern sports facilities and equipment. This issue has affected the health and development of children and youth in the area, as well as the development of sports skills at both the local and national levels. Additionally, the limited participation in sports activities among the general public has negatively impacted the health and well-being of the community.

To address this issue, Walailak University has recognized the importance of supporting and promoting sports for the sustainable development of the local community. The university has shared sports facilities with the local community, for instance with local schools and with the general public, offering free access to all sport facilities. The initiative includes collaborations with local agencies to organize sports activities and competitions, providing sports equipment, as well as training and networking with national and international organizations, such as the Sports Association of Thailand, the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand, and the Southern Region Swimming Association. These efforts have enabled local schools and general public in the local community to access standard sports facilities that are conveniently located, contributing to improved health and sports development in the area.

Tumpang Central Stadium, Walailak University

The Tumpang Central Stadium is capable of hosting national and international competitions. This stadium aims to elevate the development of sports for excellence and professional careers. It also continuously supports the organization of competitions in collaboration with various partner networks.

Tennis Courts

There are 8 tennis courts with competition-standard acrylic surfaces, available for use both day and night. Additionally, a knock board is provided for tennis practice.

Golf Driving Range

It features 18 bays and one chipping and putting green for those interested in practicing their golf skills.

Olympic Swimming Pool

An Olympic-standard swimming pool designed for competitions and student training, along with a family pool. It is located near the student dormitories and is easily accessible via the university’s electric shuttle service.

Basketball Court

A standard-size basketball court measuring 15 x 28 meters, designed for both competitions and training.

Table Tennis Court

For table tennis enthusiasts, the facility offers standard table tennis tables.

Physical Education Building

This building includes volleyball, basketball, futsal courts, a boxing ring, and a fitness testing room.

Badminton Courts

Eight badminton courts are available, open to the public and local communities.

Petanque Courts

Ten petanque courts are available for practice and competitions.

Aerobic Area

Open for aerobic dance sessions every Monday through Thursday, promoting health and wellness.

Fitness Center

The newly opened fitness center provides weightlifting and aerobic exercise facilities, available for individual or group use.

Artificial Turf Football Fields and Walailak Futsal Arena

There are two artificial turf football fields, each measuring 33 x 53 meters. These fields are designed to accommodate both training and football competitions for youth and anyone interested in the sport. Additionally, there are Walailak Futsal Arena. The futsal arena is designed for students and local athletes, equipped with lighting for evening play. It is conveniently located near the fitness center and swimming pool.

Volleyball Court and Sepak Takraw Court

A volleyball court measuring 18 x 9 meters, available for playing and competitions. Additionally, there are Sepak Takraw Court for those interested in Sepak Takraw, the court is designed to accommodate both training and competitions.

Fitness Room and Dance/Yoga Room

Fitness Room: Equipped with a full range of exercise equipment, and Dance/Yoga Room: A space dedicated to dance and yoga practice.

Access and Utilization by the Local Community

Walailak University has shared its facilities for free of charge to schools and the general public. The users are categorized into the following groups:

      • User A: Students and staff
      • User B: Alumni association
      • User C: Employees’ families
      • User D: Non-member individuals
      • User E: External organizations or agencies
      • User F: General public
Local Schools
Walailak University has demonstrated its commitment to promoting sports and developing local youth by providing free access to its sports facilities for schools and the community. The university collaborates with local schools, such as the Satit Walailak Pattana Community Early Childhood Development Center and Wat Khok Lek Early Childhood Development Center, to organize activities like balance bike training for early children. Additionally, the university hosted the 3rd “PTT – LTAT Youth Tennis Development Southern Region” competition in 2023, in collaboration with the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT), to enhance youth skills and share sports facilities. Moreover, the university partnered with the Nakhon Si Thammarat Sports Association to organize the Nakhon Si Thammarat Swimming Championship, with over 100 athletes participating. The university also supported the National Student Sports Competition (Qualifying Round), aiding the selection of representatives from Nakhon Si Thammarat to compete at the regional level. These efforts reflect Walailak University’s dedication to becoming a sustainable center for sports development for local youth and the community.

Figures : Sport facilities shared with local school.

General Public

MH Nakhon Si FC organized a youth football player selection event for Nakhon Si Thammarat to participate in the Thai Amateur League (TA) 2023, Southern Region. This event provided an opportunity for local youth to showcase their talents and develop their football skills. The activity was held at the Walailak University football field, which was made available to local youth. Additionally, the university’s Center for Cultural and Sports Promotion collaborated with the Swimming Association of Thailand and the Southern Region Swimming Club to host a coaching and swimmer training program for local youth. This program offered young swimmers with potential the opportunity to receive practical training. The university also opened its facilities, such as the swimming pool and sports fields, to the local community at no cost, promoting health and sustainable local sports development.

Figures : Sport facilities shared with general public.

Additionally, collaborations at all levels have led to an increase in sports activities within the university and have encouraged greater interest in sports among local communities including local schools and general public, as they are allowed to attend free of charge. Examples of such events include:
      • Chang FA Cup 2023
      • 2023 Thailand-ITF World Tennis Tour International Tennis Tournament
      • Champions League Qualifier
      • Nakhon Si Thammarat Taekwondo Championship

The community’s access to sports facilities and free sports activities has had significant impacts at both the local and national levels, with the following key outcomes:

      1. Youth Skill Development: Local schools have benefited from using the university’s facilities, giving youth the opportunity to develop sports skills such as swimming, tennis, and football. Additionally, regional and national competitions have provided a platform for youth to showcase their talents and abilities.
      2. Promoting Community Health: By offering free access to sports spaces and equipment, the general public has been able to exercise and participate in sports activities, leading to improved physical health and quality of life.
      3. Strengthening Relationships Between the University and the Community: Collaboration between the university, local schools, and agencies has fostered strong relationships and mutual support in promoting sports and community development.
      4. Raising Local Sports Standards: By organizing international-standard events such as tennis and swimming competitions, the local community has been given the opportunity to participate and engage in global-level sports.

These outcomes demonstrate Walailak University’s crucial role as a central hub for sustainable health and sports development in the community, supporting youth, promoting public health, and elevating sports at the regional and national levels.

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities

Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals