Behind the Medals: The Unsung Heroes of India's Commonwealth Games Journey

As India's athletes compete for medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the spotlight also shines on the coaches and support staff who play a pivotal role in their success. This article delves into the extensive preparation, strategies, and emotional support that coaches provide, emphasizing their importance in the athletes' journeys. With insights from the Indian Olympic Association President and a focus on the achievements in weightlifting, discover how these unsung heroes contribute to the nation's sporting triumphs.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 28, 2026, 08:22 IST

The Role of Coaches in Athletic Success

As athletes from India strive for glory at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the focus is not solely on those who stand atop the podium. A crucial element of their success lies in the dedicated coaches and support teams whose expertise, strategies, and extensive preparation play a vital role in these athletes' performances.

While the accolades and applause are directed at the athletes, the foundation of their achievements is built on the relentless efforts of their coaches, who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

As Team India gains momentum at the Commonwealth Games, marked by impressive victories in para powerlifting and record-setting feats in weightlifting, another narrative unfolds—one that highlights the coaches who invest months, if not years, in readying athletes for these pivotal moments.

Coaching at a multi-sport event encompasses much more than just technical skills. Each day starts with meticulously crafted training regimens and recovery protocols, followed by strategic discussions, video breakdowns, and numerous personal interactions aimed at maintaining athletes' composure under pressure.

A coach embodies multiple roles: educator, mentor, psychologist, and strategist. Their impact is gauged not only by the medals won but also by the self-assurance and belief they instill in their athletes.

Insights from the IOA President on Coaching

PT Usha, the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), emphasized the critical role coaches play in any successful sports initiative. She stated, "As an athlete, I have always believed that behind every great performance is a great coach. Coaches dedicate years to nurturing talent, building confidence, and preparing athletes for the biggest moments of their careers. They may not stand on the podium, but every medal India wins carries the imprint of a coach's commitment and sacrifice. The Indian Olympic Association deeply values their contribution, and we are committed to providing our athletes with the strongest possible coaching support."

Celebrating Weightlifting Achievements

The recent successes of India's weightlifters underscore the significance of the coach-athlete partnership. Coach Vijay Sharma, known for his pivotal role in Mirabai Chanu Saikhom's development, is recognized as one of the nation's leading high-performance coaches. He is supported by a dedicated team of assistant coaches and staff whose relentless efforts often go unnoticed but are essential in keeping athletes both physically fit and mentally focused during competitions.