Chhote Lal’s quiet craft earns him the Dronacharya award
Boxing coach Chhote Lal Yadav has been awarded the Dronacharya Award for his significant contributions to Indian boxing, including his work with Mary Kom and Jaismine Lamboria. His coaching philosophy focuses on 'smart training' and personalized physical management, which helped extend the careers of elite athletes.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the critical role of specialized coaching and sports science in maintaining the longevity of professional athletes.
From extending the career of legendary champion M.C. Mary Kom to transforming Jaismine Lamboria into a world champion, Chhote Lal Yadav has built his coaching career on understanding what each boxer needs, an approach that has earned him the prestigious Dronacharya Award.
Mary Kom’s resurgence, Jaismine’s world title and Commonwealth Games golds for Sakshi Chaudhary and Arundhati Choudhary are the defining milestones of a journey that began when injury forced Chhote Lal from the ring to the coaching corner.
“I am very happy but I don’t have to stop here. I need to work harder. My aim is that my boxers win 2-3 gold medals at the LA Olympics,” he told PTI.
As a boxer, Chhote Lal was part of the national setup from 2001 to 2012, progressing through the sub-junior, junior and senior levels.
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