Coach Kim Sang Sik did not receive the gold medal: His calm reaction was impressive.
Amidst the jubilation of Vietnam U22's victory at the SEA Games 33, coach Kim Sang Sik quietly stood outside the medal podium. His actions later proved to be even more meaningful than a gold medal.
The coronation moment and unexpected rules.
The Vietnam U22 team brilliantly won the gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games after defeating their arch-rival Thailand 3-2 in a dramatic final match. However, amidst the team's moment of glory, a particular image attracted attention: Coach Kim Sang Sik was not present on the podium with his players.
According to the organizers' new regulations, medals will only be awarded to the athletes who participated in the competition. This means that the entire coaching staff, including the South Korean head coach, will not be included in the medal list. This news came as a surprise to many fans.
The captain's calm reaction
Faced with this situation, Coach Kim Sang Sik displayed admirable professionalism and composure. While the players anxiously awaited their moment of honor, he quietly sat in the technical area, leisurely enjoying bananas and chocolate, observing the entire event unfolding on the field.
Instead of worrying about individual accolades, Kim spent his time chatting, shaking hands, and giving warm hugs to his coaching staff. For him, the success of the team was the most fundamental and valuable asset.
The teacher and the commemorative film.
When the official medal ceremony began, Coach Kim Sang Sik performed a meaningful act. He pulled out his personal phone and became a special "videographer," carefully recording every happy moment and radiant smile of his students as they received their prestigious gold medals.
He meticulously adjusted the camera angle, ensuring that every image was perfectly captured. This focus showed that he considered this moment entirely dedicated to the players, and his job was to help them fully enjoy the joy of victory.
Complete joy doesn't need a medal.
After the ceremony concluded, Coach Kim Sang Sik joined the team and leaders of the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) in a commemorative photo session. The emotional moment was when the players lifted their coach into the air as a heartfelt tribute to his contributions.
Not only that, he also suggested that his players do the same with the VFF leadership, showing their appreciation for the support throughout the journey. Although he didn't have a medal on his chest, Coach Kim Sang Sik's polite, affectionate, and professional demeanor left a beautiful and memorable impression on the fans.