Jakarat Tonhongsa: From Thai National Defender to Professional Coach
Jakarat Tonhongsa is a distinguished figure in Thai football, having transitioned from a reliable presence on the defensive line to a strategic role on the sidelines. Born on September 29, 1973, in Roi Et, Thailand, Tonhongsa has spent decades contributing to the growth of the sport in his home country, both as a professional player and a dedicated manager.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Jakarat Tonhongsa
- Date of Birth: September 29, 1973
- Place of Birth: Roi Et, Thailand
- Playing Position: Defender
- International Experience: Represented Thailand from 1996 to 1997
- Current Role: Assistant Coach at Port (Thai League 1)
Professional Playing Career
Standing at 1.82 meters (6 ft 0 in), Jakarat Tonhongsa utilized his physical presence to excel as a defender—a player positioned to prevent the opposing team from scoring. His club career spanned over a decade, during which he played for several prominent Thai teams.
He began his journey with Thai Farmer Bank in the early 1990s before moving to Osotsapa, where he spent a significant portion of his prime from 1996 to 2001. He later brought his experience to Bangkok Christian in 2002 and concluded his senior playing days with Chula-Sinthana between 2003 and 2007.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]International Representation
The pinnacle of his playing career came when he was called up to the Thailand national team. Between 1996 and 1997, Tonhongsa earned 8 caps (appearances) for his country, contributing 2 goals during his international tenure.
Managerial and Coaching Transition
Following his retirement from active play, Tonhongsa transitioned into football management, applying his tactical knowledge to lead various clubs. His coaching journey began in 2012 with Roi Et United, his hometown province's team.
Over the next decade, he held various roles across the Thai football pyramid. He managed Ubon UMT United and Sakaeo in 2015, followed by a stint at BCC FC in 2016. He also dedicated time to developing the next generation of talent as a youth coach for Muangthong United from 2017 to 2018.
In recent years, Tonhongsa has moved into high-level assistant roles. After managing Bangkok in 2018 and Udon Thani in 2020, he joined Port as an assistant coach in 2020. After a period leading Mahasarakham SBT from 2021 to 2025, he is slated to return to Port as an assistant coach starting in 2026.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Career Summary Table
| Period | Organization/Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 199?–2007 | Various (Thai Farmer Bank, Osotsapa, etc.) | Player (Defender) |
| 1996–1997 | Thailand National Team | International Player |
| 2012–2021 | Various (Roi Et United, Udon Thani, etc.) | Manager/Coach |
| 2020–2021 / 2026– | Port | Assistant Coach |
Frequently Asked Questions
What position did Jakarat Tonhongsa play during his career?
Jakarat Tonhongsa played as a defender, utilizing his 1.82m height to protect the goal and organize the backline.
How many goals did he score for the Thailand national team?
During his international career between 1996 and 1997, he scored 2 goals in 8 appearances.
Which youth team did he coach?
He served as a coach for the Muangthong United youth team from 2017 to 2018.
What is his current or upcoming role in Thai football?
He is an assistant coach for the Thai League 1 club Port, with a scheduled tenure continuing into 2026.
Where was Jakarat Tonhongsa born?
He was born in Roi Et, Thailand, on September 29, 1973.