In 2023 a group of Lao American athletes traveled to Cambodia to represent Laos at the SEA games. Among the group was Angelina Messina (University of Pittsburgh Swim). Astrid Dirkzwager (Georgia Tech swim), Ariana Dirkzwager (Georgia Tech swim, Steven Insixiengmay (University of Georgia swim) and Dawson Sihavong (Stanford University wreslting). This episode includes a short recap and interviews with the athletes that were conducted at the games.

Samson, a man so powerful they say he could slay a lion with his bare hands. Much like his biblical namesake, Samson Phommabout’s life story is one of incredible strength and resilience. Raised in the shadows of Salt Lake City, Samson's early years were marred by the allure of gang life. It would take a brush with law enforcement and the tragic loss of a dear friend before he would confront the harsh realities of where his choices were taking him. He decided to trade the streets for the cage, channeling his energy into mixed martial arts. Samson would rise through the amateur ranks and into the pros. Through blood, sweat, and relentless dedication, he transformed himself into a professional fighter and tested the waters as an entrepreneur. Samson’s ultimate goal is to represent his Lao heritage on the international stage.

https://www.instagram.com/wutsupsamson/

https://www.facebook.com/samson.phommabout

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

Samson and the Lion photo y Barbara Maliszewska - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0 pl, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28259878

The first generation walked, so that the second could run, and the third…could fly… Lost somewhere between Buddhist ancestors and Mormon neighbors, between his Lao heritage and the American dream Kyto Khouangrasvongsa would find his way home on the football field. Kyto began playing in high school before transitioning into the semi pros. When the team he was playing on went into default, Kyto paid off the debts and found himself at the helm as owner and general manager. Evolving from player to leader, football became more than a game—it became a crucible that forged Kyto's character. As he inherits the torch of life from his refugee parents, Kyto envisions a future where for his son, the field is only the launching pad. Kytos’ parents came from Laos as refugees. His older brother was born in the Nong Khai refugee camp while Kyto was born in Utah.

www.laoamericansports.com

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

They say that a smooth sea has never made a skilled sailor. The odds were stacked against Jason Somachay in life. Growing up without a father, being raised by his immigrant grandparents and finding his way into the juvenile justice system. It was through the tumultuous seas of his youth that he discovered his anchor: martial arts. After being introduced to MMA by an uncle, Jason would rise through the south Florida amateur circuits and in 2012 made his professional debut. His journey as an athlete and person would come full circle when in 2024 he travelled to Laos and Thailand, re-connecting with his heritage, visiting the grave of a father that he never knew, embracing the spiritual side of Muay Thai and learning that at 37, his life was only beginning.

https://www.instagram.com/somchay_muaythai/

https://www.instagram.com/raginasian_fightfitness/

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

From a small town in Maine to the lights of Bangkok, it’s the love of the game that has taken Jose Nouchathavong on a journey around the world. Jose began playing basketball as a child and would work his way onto the roster of a local community college before going on to play for University of Southern Maine. At a crossroads, contemplating a transition into the workforce, fate intervened with a unique opportunity – a chance to travel to Laos and proudly represent his heritage as a member of Team Luang Prabang in the Thai Basketball Super League. Basketball has taken Jose to places like Indonesia, Malaysia and even Armenia but in his heart, there is still unfinished business. His goal is to represent Laos at the SEA Games alongside fellow Lao-American, Bobby Syvanthong.

https://www.laoamericansports.com/jose-nouchanthavong

https://www.instagram.com/staysolidzay/

Photo/Video Credits

D.O.G. Sports

Maine: Rapidfire - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7161757

Bangkok: Preecha.MJ - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=73234734

When the Lao American Sports Hall of Fame was founded over a cup of coffee in South Elgin, Illinois, we could have only imagined what it would become. About two years into our journey, we’ve inducted 25 athletes, featured countless rising stars, built bridges between athletes in Laos and the USA and made a few new friends along the way. The SEA Four Podcast was born out of the desire to give the Hall of Fame athletes and other inspiring individuals a platform to have their stories told. In a special addition we invite you to join us as we celebrate the release of our 50th episode. John and Ko will reflect on the first 50 episodes, the Lao American Sports Hall of Fame and the new non-profit, Lao International Sports NFP

Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC