Australian legend revolutionised fitness standards for Indian players
The global hockey community is in mourning following the sad news that former India hockey coach Michael Nobbs passed away on Thursday. The Australian legend, who managed the Indian national team between 2011 and 2013, died at the age of 72 in Australia following a long battle with illness.
Nobbs was more than just a tactician; he was a coach who deeply immersed himself in the culture of the country he served. Known for his affable nature, he shared a unique bond with India, often enjoying local delicacies. During his tenure, he was frequently seen at humble eateries in Bengaluru, relishing ghee roast dosas and coconut water, proving that his connection to the land went beyond the sports complex.
Professionally, Nobbs is credited with a significant overhaul of the Indian hockey fitness regime. Along with physio David John, he introduced modern conditioning methods that were initially alien to Indian players. He famously replaced the traditional pre-match sugary tea with black coffee and swapped rice-heavy diets for protein-rich meals. While players like Sardar Singh initially found these changes drastic, the squad eventually embraced the philosophy after seeing tangible results in their speed and stamina.
However, his journey was not without significant hurdles. His time as coach saw India finish 12th at the London Olympics 2012, a period marked by internal strife and allegations of a player revolt. The immense pressure of navigating the complex politics of Hockey India, combined with team performance issues, eventually took a toll on his mental and physical health, leading to his resignation.
Despite the professional highs and lows, Nobbs maintained a humorous outlook on life. He battled advanced-stage lung cancer six years ago with the same resilience he demanded on the field. Even after leaving his post, he harbored no bitterness. Instead, he cherished his memories of the country, focusing on the warmth of the people and the food he loved, rather than the medals lost.
Image Source: myKhel
