Rambir Singh Khokhar is a stalwart of kabaddi, renowned both for his illustrious playing career and his exceptional coaching journey. Hailing from Haryana, India, he is celebrated as one of the foremost figures in the sport. Khokhar’s transition from being a legendary kabaddi player to a highly successful coach is a testament to his enduring commitment to the game.
A Legendary Playing Career of Rambir Singh Khokhar
Khokhar’s journey in kabaddi commenced as a player, where he achieved numerous milestones and showcased exceptional skills. His playing career, marked by remarkable achievements, includes:
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- Asian Kabaddi Championship (1988): Khokhar played a pivotal role as a coach in helping India secure a gold medal in the Asian Kabaddi Championship in 1988.
Coaching Odyssey of Rambir Singh Khokhar
After retiring as a player, Rambir Singh Khokhar transitioned into coaching, and his achievements in this role are equally impressive:
- Coach of Indian Team in Asian Games (2018): Khokhar served as the coach of the Indian kabaddi team in the 2018 Asian Games held in Jakarta, Indonesia. Under his guidance, the team secured the bronze medal.
- Head Coach of Haryana Steelers: Khokhar took on the role of head coach for the Haryana Steelers team in the Pro Kabaddi League from 2017 to 2018. His coaching prowess guided the team to qualify for the playoffs during his tenure.
- Chief Coach of Indian Team in Asian Kabaddi Championship (2017): In the Asian Kabaddi Championship held in Iran in November 2017, Khokhar played a crucial role as the chief coach of the Indian kabaddi team, which clinched the gold medal.
- Coach of Kenyan Team (2016): Khokhar’s expertise extended beyond India when he served as the coach of the Kenyan kabaddi team during the Kabaddi World Cup in 2016.
- Head Coach of Patna Pirates (2014): Khokhar took the helm as the head coach of the Patna Pirates team in the Pro Kabaddi League in 2014, leading the team to a bronze medal finish.
- Coach of Sports Authority of India (1984-2014): His coaching journey began at the Sports Authority of India (SAI), where he dedicated 31 years to nurturing kabaddi talents.
- Coach of Indian Junior Team (2011): Khokhar’s influence extended to junior kabaddi as he served as the chief coach of the Indian Junior Team, which clinched the gold medal in the Junior Asian Kabaddi Championship held in Malaysia in 2011.
- International Kabaddi Tournament (1990): Khokhar’s coaching acumen was recognized early in his career when he served as the coach of the Indian Kabaddi team during an international tournament held in Calcutta in February 1990, leading the team to a gold medal.
- Asian Games (1989-90): He coached the Indian kabaddi team from 1989 to 1990 for two consecutive years in preparation for the Asian Games. India emerged victorious with a gold medal in kabaddi at the 1990 Asian Games in Beijing, China.
- Asian Kabaddi Championship (1988): Khokhar’s coaching journey took flight when he served as the coach of the Indian Kabaddi team that secured a gold medal in the Asian Kabaddi Championship held in Jaipur in August 1988.
Awards and Recognition of Rambir Singh Khokhar
Khokhar’s extraordinary contributions to kabaddi have earned him accolades and awards, including:
- Arjuna Award (2003): Recognized with the prestigious Arjuna Award for his exceptional achievements in kabaddi.
- Swabhiman Award (2001): Conferred with the Swabhiman Award by the Vice President of India in 2001, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport.
- Bhim Award (2001): Acknowledged with the Bhim Award by the Governor of Haryana in 2001.
- Best Sportsman Award (2001): Honored with the Best Sportsman Award of Services by the Prime Minister of India in 2001.
- Best Sportsman Award (1999): Recognized with the Best Sportsman Award of the Air Force by the Defence Minister of India in 1999.
- Gold Medal in Asian Games (2002): As a player, Khokhar played a crucial role as captain, helping India secure a gold medal in kabaddi at the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, Korea.
Academy of Rambir Singh Khokhar
Rambir Singh Khokhar’s dedication to the sport is further exemplified by his establishment of the Khokhar Kabaddi Academy in Sonipat, Haryana, where he continues to shape the future of kabaddi by imparting his knowledge and expertise to aspiring players.
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Current Role of Rambir Singh Khokhar
Presently, Khokhar is the coach of the Haryana Steelers kabaddi team in the Pro Kabaddi League, where he continues to meld young talents into successful kabaddi players.
Rambir Singh Khokhar’s journey from being a celebrated kabaddi player to a revered coach is a saga of dedication, excellence, and a deep love for the sport. His stellar coaching career, embellished with championships, awards, and the trust of players, cements his legacy as a true kabaddi maestro. Khokhar’s enduring contributions to the sport and his commitment to nurturing young talents ensure that his impact on kabaddi continues to be profound for generations to come.
