The Unsung Heroes Behind India's Success at the Commonwealth Games

The Role of Coaches in Athletic Success

Glasgow [Scotland], July 28: As Indian athletes strive for medals and set records at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the focus is not only on those who stand atop the podium.

Behind every remarkable achievement lies a dedicated team of coaches and support personnel whose expertise, strategies, and extensive preparation play a crucial role in helping athletes shine on such a grand stage.

While the accolades and applause are rightfully directed at the athletes, each performance is the result of countless hours of meticulous planning, mentorship, and encouragement from the coaches who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

As Team India gains momentum at the Commonwealth Games, marked by a successful start in para powerlifting and record-setting feats in weightlifting, another narrative unfolds quietly in the background. This narrative centers on 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 training. Each day kicks off with tailored training regimens and recovery strategies, followed by tactical discussions, video breakdowns, and numerous personal interactions aimed at keeping athletes composed under pressure. A coach often embodies the roles of teacher, mentor, psychologist, and strategist all at once. Their impact is gauged not solely by the medals won but also by the confidence they instill and the belief they foster in their athletes.

PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), emphasized the vital role coaches play in any successful sports initiative.

“As an athlete, I have always maintained that behind every outstanding performance is an exceptional coach. Coaches invest years in developing talent, boosting confidence, and preparing athletes for the defining moments of their careers. They may not be visible on the podium, but every medal earned by India reflects the dedication and sacrifices made by coaches. The Indian Olympic Association holds their contributions in high regard and is committed to ensuring our athletes receive the best coaching support available,” she stated.

The recent accomplishments of India’s weightlifters further underscore the significance of this collaboration. Coach Vijay Sharma, whose guidance has been pivotal for Mirabai Chanu Saikhom, is recognized as one of the nation’s leading high-performance coaches.

Alongside him are assistant coaches and support staff whose relentless efforts often go unnoticed but are essential in keeping athletes both physically fit and mentally steady throughout the competition.