The Football Association of Thailand is set to launch the FIFA TDS Talent ID 2025 program, aiming to discover and nurture young football talents across the country. Scheduled for March 1-2, 2025, this event will take place at the Football Development Center at Bangkokthonburi University, Bangkok, marking the second phase of talent identification efforts following the initiative's kickoff.
Kelly Cross, a senior FIFA expert overseeing the project, will lead the efforts alongside local technical director Songyos Klinsukon and head scout Sirisak Yodyardthai. Their collective expertise aims to identify high-potential young athletes born between 2009 and 2010, facilitating their pathways to join Thailand's youth national teams.
The program's structure prioritizes individual potential, focusing on showcasing players' talents rather than just winning or losing matches. Each participant will be evaluated based on the T+MASC criteria—Talent, Motricity, Availability, Smart, and Commitment—ensuring the most promising talents receive proper recognition and opportunities.
Registration for the upcoming event opens at 7:45 AM on both days, requiring all attendees to bring identification and their own necessary gear, including boots and shin guards. The program invites young footballers from Bangkok and the surrounding areas to join, as local scouts will also participate, gathering data on budding talents across various competitions nationwide.
This initiative is part of the larger FIFA TDS Talent ID program running from February to May 2025. The scouting process will include 10 regional zones, leading to the final selection of 44 young athletes who will take part in national training camps. These players will compete not only for the chance to represent Thailand but also to prepare for significant tournaments, including the upcoming AFC Asian Cup U-17 Qualification and the FIFA World Cup U-17 scheduled for 2026.
Reflecting on the importance of the program, Kelly Cross stated, "This Talent ID program is key to Thailand's future, providing every youth player the chance to showcase their skills." Her sentiment echoes the commitment shared by officials and coaching staff involved, who understand the transformative impact of identifying and elevulating young talent.
With the FIFA TDS Talent ID 2025 program, the Football Association of Thailand seeks not just to scout young players but to build solid foundations for the future of Thai football. Through structured support and guidance, this effort aims to develop athletes who can compete on both regional and global stages. Aspiring young talents across the nation now have a platform to showcase their abilities and make their mark.
Encouragement and support from stakeholders reaffirm the program's vision: to give every talented individual the opportunity to pursue their dreams within the sport of football, fostering the next generation of players prepared to represent Thailand on prestigious platforms worldwide.
Anticipation builds as the event nears, with young athletes eagerly preparing to seize their chance to shine. The path to future successes not only lies within individual performances but also through the teamwork and dedication of those committed to nurturing these talents. The excitement surrounding the FIFA TDS Talent ID 2025 program exemplifies Thailand's dedication to football development, ensuring the sport's growth within the fabric of the nation's culture.