Happy Teachers Day: Ranking the best coaches in sports history
What's the story
Coaches are considered to be the best teachers in the world and even vice versa. Every coach has a crucial role to play in the success of any team he coaches or manages. Interestingly, September 5 is celebrated as Teacher's Day in India, as even coaches are honored on the day. On the same note, we rank the best coaches across sports globally.
Mike Hesson
Mike Hesson gave a new identity to New Zealand cricket
While this might come as a surprise to most of the readers, his inclusion in this list among cricket coaches is justified. Since becoming the New Zealand coach in 2012, Hesson uplifted Kiwi cricket to a whole new level. Having served the nation for close to six years, Hesson was New Zealand's longest serving manager. He was known for maintaining an admirable team culture.
Harry Hopman
Harry Hopman revolutionized tennis in Australia
A number of top players have been produced under some fine coaches in the tennis. However, Harry Hopman has outclassed each one of them for a specific reason — 16 Davis Cup titles in 22 years. Also, he has coached some other big players like Rod Laver, Roy Emerson, John McEnroe and many more. Owing to his legacy, the Hopman Cup tournament was created.
Pullela Gopichand
Pullela Gopichand re-invented badminton in India
The sport of badminton is very common in China and is considered a side sport in India. However, over the past few years, it has all changed, thanks to Pullela Gopichand, the coach who has re-invented the game in the nation. It is under him India has earned a number of medals, including Olympic bronze and silver, along with BWF World Championships gold.
Satpal Singh
Satpal Singh: The coach for upcoming generation of wrestlers
While one might remember Satpal Singh for his gold-winning moment in wrestling during the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi, he has since went on to become a fabulous coach. It is under his guidance Sushil Kumar has become the only Indian athlete to win twin Olympic medals. As a result, Satpal was also honored with various Indian awards, including the Padma Bhushan (2015).
Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson: The no-brainier coach of football
When it comes to the sport of football, there is only one coach who can make the list of the all-time greatest. Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is certainly a no-brainer, especially how he revolutionized the club. Since taking charge in 1986, Ferguson has won 13 Premier League titles with the club, the most by any manager in EPL history. Truly legendary.