Michael Nobbs, the Dosa-Loving Australian Who Transformed Indian Hockey, Passes Away at 72
Michael Nobbs, the Australian hockey coach who guided the Indian national team from 2011 to 2013 and was instrumental in making them one of the fittest squads in world hockey, passed away on Thursday after a prolonged illness. He was 72 years old.
A Coach Who Embraced Indian Culture
Nobbs was known for his deep appreciation of Indian culture, particularly its cuisine. His favorite spot was a modest darshini—a self-service Udupi eatery—just outside the Sports Authority of India's Bengaluru campus. There, he would often enjoy a ghee roast dosa with extra sambar, accompanied by a thick banana shake or coconut water.
Beyond food, Nobbs connected with his players through humor, frequently watching Russell Peters' comedy sketches and drawing parallels to his experiences in India. These personal touches helped him build strong bonds with the team and navigate the complexities of Indian hockey.
A Lifelong Admiration for Indian Hockey
Born in Perth, Nobbs was a defender during one of Australia's strongest hockey eras, playing between 1979 and 1985. His love for the Indian style of hockey was nurtured by an Anglo-Indian player who had migrated to Australia during Partition. Despite his own skills, Nobbs often expressed admiration for the supple wrists and rubber-band hips of Indian players, qualities celebrated globally.
Revolutionizing Fitness in Indian Hockey
When Nobbs took charge of the Indian team in 2011, he inherited a squad in disarray. Alongside his close friend and team physio David John, he embarked on a mission to overhaul the players' physical conditioning. Their methods, though initially met with skepticism, soon proved transformative.
- Players were introduced to black coffee before matches, replacing sugary tea.
- Dietary shifts included phasing out rice and potatoes in favor of protein-rich alternatives.
- These changes led to noticeable improvements in speed and endurance, making the Indian team among the fittest in the world.
Former captain Sardar Singh, who thrived under Nobbs, recalled initial disbelief at the new routines but later embraced them wholeheartedly. Today, many of these practices are ingrained in the team's culture.
Challenges and Legacy
Despite his successes, Nobbs faced significant challenges. At the 2012 London Olympics, India finished last, and internal player unrest—including alleged revolts and feigned injuries—added to the strain. Nobbs, known for his patience and cheerful demeanor, found the environment increasingly difficult, exacerbated by bureaucratic interference.
The toll eventually led to his resignation and return to Australia, where he battled advanced lung cancer. Even during treatment, he remained connected to Indian hockey, consulting for the film Gold and reflecting on his experiences with humor.
Nobbs' legacy extends beyond wins and losses. He is remembered for his man-management skills, his ability to bridge cultural gaps, and his unwavering commitment to elevating Indian hockey's fitness standards. His passing marks the loss of a coach who not only understood the game but also the heart of Indian sports.
