Happy Teachers’ Day: 7 extraordinary coaches of India who produced gems of sportspersons

India is celebrating Teachers’ Day on the birth anniversary of former President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday on September 5. 

On this special occasion, let's have a look at some extraordinary Indian coaches who produced gems of sportspersons.

Pullela Gopichand (Badminton)

As an eminent coach Gopichand produced champions like Saina Nehwal, P V Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, Sai Praneeth and Parupalli Kashyap. He was honoured with Arjuna Award (1999), Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2001), Padma Shri (2005), Dronacharya Award (2009) and Padma Bhushan (2014).

Satpal Singh (Wrestling)

Satpal Singh is a renowned wrestling coach. He guided Sushil Kumar to two Olympic medals - bronze in 2008 Beijing and 2012 London. He was honoured with Arjun Award (1974), Padma Shri (1983), Dronacharya Award (2009) and Padma Bhushan (2015).

Gurbaksh Singh Sandhu (Boxing)

Gurbaksh is probably the best boxing coach in India. He has shaped the future of many champions including Vijender Singh. He was honoured with Dronacharya Award in 1998.

Syed Nayeemuddin (Football)

The former captain turned into a successful coach. After leading India in many memorable victories in the field, Nayeem coached the national team. He was honoured with both Arjuna and Dronacharya awards.

Bishweshwar Nandi (Gymnastics)

Nandi was a brilliant gymnast. Later, he turned to coaching and produced India’s top gymnast Dipa Karmakar. Nandi was honoured with Dronarcharya Award in 2016.

OM Nambiar (Athletics)

Nambikar is the most famous Indian athletics coach. Under his tutelage, PT Usha emerged as a top athlete. Nambiar was honoured with Dronacharya award in 1985.

Vasudevan Baskaran (Hockey)

After a successful playing career, Baskaran turned as an eminent hockey coach of India. He was honoured with Arjuna Award in 1980.