SEA4 Podcast: Southeast Asian Athlete Achievement > Adversity Lao American Sports Hall of Fame

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

While we love the competition, the glory and the roar of the crowd there is so much more to sports and nowhere is this more evident than on the Rugby pitches of Laos. From the capital city to the rural villages rugby is making a positive impact across the country. Through the Lao Rugby Federation’s developmental programs and the transnational Weredragons Rugby club people are coming together from around the world and overseas Lao people are reconnecting with their heritage. In Laos rugby is not just a game; it's a life-changing opportunity for individuals to develop the skills and the tools they need to succeed in all aspects of life. Megan Knight is a former member of the U.S.A. women U19 national team now living in Laos. Viengsamai Souksavanh is the CEO of the Lao Rugby federation. Ana Lavongtheung is a Lao-American rugby player who has played on the Weredragons and with the Lao Rugby Federation.
https://www.weredragonsrugby.com/
https://www.facebook.com/laorugby

Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC
Photos: Courtesy of the Lao Rugby Federation

Victor Hugo said, “What causes night in our souls, may have stars”. The 9/11 attacks drove Terry Rajsombath to enlist in the military and it wouldn’t be long before he was deployed to the front lines in Afghanistan.  After surviving a near fatal gunshot wound in a harrowing fire fight, Terry would face the ultimate battle of his life while trying to recover both physically and mentally. At the dawn of the darkest night in his life, Terry, would find a star and against the advice of doctors go on to complete one of the toughest sporting events invented, the Iron Man. While the battle with his injury may never truly end Terry will continue finding the stars in his life such as his clothing brand, Rhode Island Original. 



https://www.instagram.com/terryrajsombath/

 https://www.instagram.com/rhodeislandoriginal/

https://www.rhodeislandoriginal.com/

https://www.youtube.com/c/TerryRajsombath

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

The toughest moments in our lives can either break us, or make us. Brandon Thammavong was headed down a path of self-destruction, when in a defining moment he decided to make a change. Pouring everything into his mental and physical self, while harnessing his entrepreneurial spirt, Brandon, would conquer his past and forge a path into the future. He’s dabbled in bodybuilding and physical training but his greatest passion comes from helping others find their purpose through his platform, North Star Zenergy. Brandon Thammavong is a lifestyle and confidence coach. Originally from Westminster, CO he currently resides in Las Vegas.

https://www.instagram.com/northstarzenergy/

https://www.northstarzenergy.com/

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

Photo Credit: Summer Tiwari

In life we make choices. Shortly after Rasi Chau landed in America, he strapped on a football helmet and put the war and devastation that had defined his early childhood behind him. Rasi would go on to play in high school, college and the ranks of the semi-pros before taking to the field as a coach and official. From Pewee to the Pros, Rasi has been sharing his knowledge, triumphs and struggles with the next generation of athletes for over 20 years. His story not only embodies the American spirit but also serves as a reminder that our past does not define us; but rather our choices and our perseverance is what truly shape our destiny. is a Khmer-America football coach from Lynn, MA.



https://www.instagram.com/coachrasi/



Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC

How does a shy child from Long Beach end up fighting on Asian’s biggest MMA stage? After high school, Sovannarhry Em began training in boxing and martial arts. Initially focused on fun and fitness she quickly caught the eye of professional promoters. After winning her first few pro fights in dramatic fashion, Sovannahry boarded a plane for Malaysia and entered the cage as One Championship athlete. Sovannahry is currently taking a break from her MMA career but hopes to one day represent her Khmer heritage on the international stage as a member of team Cambodia.



https://www.instagram.com/nahryem/

https://www.facebook.com/NahryEm

Music: Summer 1986 by RKVC