Withe’s journey to Thailand was one paved with unexpected turns. After a distinguished playing career with Aston Villa and Newcastle United that started with uncommon early stints in South Africa and the United States, he found himself at a crossroads. He reflects a hint of wistfulness in his voice. “I stumbled upon an advert for a national team coach in Asia. I applied, and as fate would have it, that’s how I ended up in Thailand.”
His arrival in the “Land of Smiles” shortly before the Asian Cup was met with warmth and a sense of optimism. The Thai people embraced him and he quickly acclimated to the vibrant culture. However, the task before him was formidable. The Thai national team had been languishing in mediocrity, and expectations were tempered with a dose of realism.
“They told me, ‘If you can just guide the team through the initial stages, it would be a significant achievement,’” Withe recalls, a hint of defiance creeping into his tone. “But that’s not how I operate. If I’m entering a competition, I’m in it to win it.”
Withe’s unwavering self-belief and infectious enthusiasm proved to be a potent combination. He instilled a new sense of discipline and purpose in the team, and the players responded with a series of remarkable performances. In 2000, Thailand reached the semi-finals of the Asian Games, a historic feat that surpassed all expectations. Two years later, they clinched the ASEAN Football Championship (AFF Suzuki Cup) for the first time, a triumph they replicated in 2002, solidifying Withe’s status as a national hero.
The key to Withe’s success was multifaceted. He possessed an innate ability to motivate, drawing the best out of his players. He was also a gifted tactician, adapting his strategies to maximize the strengths of his squad. But perhaps his most enduring contribution was his ability to reshape the mentality of Thai football.
“There was this prevailing belief that they couldn’t compete with the powerhouses of Korea, Japan, and the Middle East,” Withe explains. “I set out to dismantle that mindset. I instilled in them the belief that when they stepped onto the pitch, they had every chance of winning.”
Withe’s legacy in Thailand extends far beyond trophies and titles. He elevated the profile of Thai football on the international stage and inspired a generation of aspiring footballers and coaches. His impact is immeasurable, and his name is forever etched in the hearts of Thai football fans.
DEEP CONNECTION
Jason Withe, Peter’s son, also forged a deep connection with Thai football, albeit from a different perspective at club level. He followed his father to the country and immersed himself in the local footballing scene. In only his second season at BEC Tero, he won a league and cup double. He witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication that fueled Thai football and developed a profound appreciation for the unique challenges and rewards of the game in Southeast Asia.
“I was struck by the technical prowess of the Thai players,” Jason notes. “But I also recognised areas for improvement, particularly in terms of physicality and tactical awareness.”
Jason, with his extensive experience in football development, believes that the Thai league has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. However, he feels that the national team’s progress has not kept pace. He points to the influx of foreign players and the need for greater investment in youth development as key factors hindering the national team’s advancement.
“The Thai league has become more competitive and professional,” Jason observes. “But the influx of foreign players can sometimes stifle the development of local talent.”
He emphasises the importance of establishing robust youth academies and providing comprehensive coach education to nurture the next generation of Thai footballers.
Both Peter and Jason Withe cherish their time in Thailand. They were embraced by the warmth and hospitality of the Thai people, and relished the opportunity to experience a different culture. They share an unwavering belief in the potential of Thai football, but acknowledge that realising that potential will require a collective effort.
“Thailand has a deep-rooted passion for football,” Peter affirms. “It’s a footballing nation. But they can reach even greater heights. They need to prioritise grassroots development and invest in youth academies. If they do that, I have no doubt that they can become a dominant force in Asian football.”
The Withes’ story is a testament to the unifying power of football, its ability to bridge continents and cultures. It is a story of unwavering dedication, a father and son bound by a shared love for the beautiful game and their profound affection for Thailand. It is a story that will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
Beyond their contributions to Thai football, the Withes also shared insights into the challenges and intricacies of coaching in Southeast Asia. Peter, with his wealth of experience, emphasised the importance of adapting to different cultural contexts and understanding the nuances of player motivation.
“Demonstration is key,” Peter explains. “Actions speak louder than words. Players understand demonstrations, and they respond to motivation. You need to know when to put your arm around a player and when to give them a kick up the backside.”
Jason echoed his father’s sentiments, adding that effective communication is paramount. He recounted an anecdote about his early days in Thailand, when he realised the importance of having a reliable translator.
“I struggled initially because my translator wasn’t conveying my message accurately,” Jason recalls. “Once I addressed that issue, there was a dramatic improvement in the players’ understanding and performance.”
The Withes’ experiences underscore the importance of cultural sensitivity and effective communication in achieving success in international football. They also highlight the need for coaches to be adaptable and resourceful, able to tailor their approach to the specific needs of their players and the environment in which they operate.
As the interview drew to a close, the Withes reflected on their enduring connection to Thailand. Peter, with a twinkle in his eye, expressed his desire to return to the country soon.
“I miss Thailand,” he admits. “I miss the football, the food, and the people. It’s a special place, and I’ll always have a fond place in my heart for it.”
Jason shared his father’s sentiments, adding that he too hopes to revisit Thailand one day.
“Thailand holds a special place in our family’s history,” Jason says. “We’ve made lifelong friends there, and we’ll always cherish the memories we created.”
Simon Causton is the host of ‘A Thai Football Podcast’ and writer of the ’Tee-Sen" (ที่เส้น) - At the line’ blog which covers all things Thai football.