By Gaurav Dengele | Lucknow:
In a historic move, the School Games Federation of India (SGFI) has launched a nationwide initiative to groom India’s future Olympians right from school level. With the 2036 Olympic Games in focus, the federation has started identifying Physical Education Teachers (PETs) and coaches across the country who will mentor and train young athletes to compete at the highest level.
Objective – Developing Olympic-level Athletes from Schools
SGFI emphasizes that success at the Olympics begins with strong foundational training during childhood. To achieve this, every state, district, and school is being asked to nominate their best sports teachers and coaches. From each zone, three top PETs and coaches will be selected to undergo Advanced Coaching Certification, preparing them to nurture the next generation of Olympians.
Selection Process
- Schools will submit reports highlighting the experience, track record, and training methods of their PETs and coaches to SGFI.
- Committees at district and state levels will review and select the best candidates.
- Selected coaches will receive advanced training under the guidance of the Sports Authority of India (SAI).
- These trained professionals will then mentor students in their schools, talukas, and districts using modern training techniques.
Focus Sports
The program specifically targets sports included in the Olympic Games, including Athletics, Badminton, Boxing, Hockey, Shooting, Wrestling, Tennis, Basketball, Football, Table Tennis, Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Volleyball, Kabaddi, Fencing, Rugby, Cycling, Squash, Weightlifting, Water Polo, Swimming, Beach Volleyball, and Mountain Biking. Special camps, technical training, nutrition management, and fitness assessments will be organized for each sport.
Role of Teachers and Coaches
Physical Education Teachers are no longer just instructors—they are the pillars of India’s future Olympians. They will be trained in talent identification, training planning, mental preparation, dietary discipline, and basic physiotherapy. This will ensure proper assessment of young athletes’ abilities and guide them in the right direction from an early age.
Training Scope and Government Support
SGFI has partnered with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Ministry of Education, and state governments to implement this initiative. Training camps for selected teachers and coaches will be conducted through SAI and the National Centre of Excellence.
From Schools to Olympics – India’s Golden Path
With this initiative, every school in India has the potential to become a mini sports academy. By recognizing natural talent, providing structured training, and offering expert guidance, India is set to raise athletes who could proudly hoist the national flag at the 2036 Olympic Games. The dream of seeing Indian athletes shine on the world stage is now closer than ever.
