Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar, a renowned kabaddi coach from Karnataka, India, has dedicated over two decades of his life to the sport. With a profound emphasis on a scientific approach to coaching, Dr. Sridhar Kumar has become a trailblazer in the kabaddi coaching landscape.
His relentless pursuit of excellence, backed by a Ph.D. in Sports Science, has enabled him to craft customized training programs that cater to the unique needs of his players. Currently, he holds the position of coach for the Haryana Steelers Kabaddi team in the Pro Kabaddi League.
This comprehensive profile delves into Dr. Sridhar Kumar’s coaching journey, his scientific approach, and his significant contributions to the sport.
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Coaching Achievements of Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar
- Gold Medal at Indoor Asian Kabaddi Championship (2013): Dr. Sridhar Kumar coached the Indian Women’s Team to victory at the Indoor Asian Kabaddi Championship held in Incheon, South Korea, securing a gold medal.
- Bronze Medal at 1st Beach Asian Kabaddi Championship (2008-09): He coached the Indonesia Men’s Kabaddi Team, leading them to a bronze medal at the 1st Beach Asian Kabaddi Championship in Bali, Indonesia.
- Impressive Performances in National Competitions: Dr. Sridhar Kumar’s coaching expertise is reflected in his teams’ performances, with notable achievements such as a second-place finish in the Vijayawada Federation Cup and a fifth-place finish in the Salem Nationals.
- Silver Medal at Federation Cup (2000): The Karnataka Women’s Kabaddi Team, under his guidance, secured a silver medal at the Federation Cup held in Trichi, Tamil Nadu.
- South Zone Senior National Championship (2011): He coached the Karnataka State Women’s Team, which clinched the gold medal in the South Zone Senior National Championship.
- Development of International Players: Dr. Sridhar Kumar’s coaching efforts have led to the emergence of international kabaddi players, with eight senior and two under-20 international players produced during his tenure.
- Tenure in Kerala State: During his ten-year coaching stint in Kerala, he played a pivotal role in producing a considerable number of state players, university players, and even international kabaddi players. His contributions have extended to nurturing junior and sub-junior players as well.
- Promotion of Kho-Kho: Apart from kabaddi, Dr. Sridhar Kumar has contributed significantly to the promotion of Kho-Kho, producing more than 150 university-level players in the sport.
Educational and Coaching Qualifications of Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar
Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar’s extensive educational background and coaching certifications include:
- B.A. (Bachelor of Arts)
- M.PED. (Master of Physical Education)
- NIS Certified Coach
- M.PHIL, Ph.D. (Doctorate in Sports Science with research on Kabaddi)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Sports Management
Scientific Approach to Coaching of Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar
Dr. Sridhar Kumar’s coaching philosophy is characterized by a strong scientific foundation:
- Utilizing Sports Science: He believes in leveraging scientific methods to enhance player performance. His Ph.D. in Sports Science equips him with a deep understanding of sports physiology and training techniques, allowing him to design training programs that cater to the individualized needs of his players.
- Motivation and Expectations: Dr. Sridhar Kumar excels in motivating and inspiring his players to reach their full potential. He sets high expectations, constantly encouraging his athletes to push their boundaries and strive for excellence.
- Positive Environment: Fostering a positive and supportive environment is paramount for Dr. Sridhar Kumar. He believes in creating a sense of teamwork and camaraderie within his team, enhancing unity and motivation.
Playing Career and Contribution of Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar
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Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar is not only an accomplished coach but also a former kabaddi player himself. He represented Karnataka at the national level and was a pivotal part of the Indian team that clinched the gold medal at the 1994 Asian Games.
Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar’s coaching journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, commitment to scientific excellence, and passion for the sport of kabaddi. His ability to consistently guide the Haryana Steelers to the playoffs and his focus on player development through science-based training have solidified his status as one of the premier coaches in Indian kabaddi.
As a true ambassador of the sport, Dr. Sridhar Kumar’s legacy extends beyond coaching; he is shaping the future of kabaddi through his innovative and scientific approach. His influence as a role model for young coaches and players alike ensures that his impact on the sport will endure for years to come. Dr. G.R. Sridhar Kumar is a pioneer in elevating kabaddi to new heights through the fusion of science and passion.
