In this episode of House of Glory, we had the privilege of hosting Neha Chavan, a renowned rifle coach who has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of some of India’s top shooters. Neha’s journey from a promising athlete to a successful coach is truly inspiring.
From Tennis Court to Shooting Range
Neha’s sporting journey began at the age of 14, where she dabbled in various sports like tennis, discus throw, and kabaddi. However, it was shooting that truly captured her heart. She dedicated 11-12 years to the sport, honing her skills and competing at a high level.
A Pivotal Decision
In 2013, Neha decided to take a break from shooting and explore a career in the corporate world. However, her passion for the sport never truly faded. In 2014, she received an opportunity to join Gun for Glory Shooting Academy and contribute to the development of young talent. This marked the beginning of her coaching career.
Nurturing Young Talent
One of Neha’s most significant contributions has been the discovery and development of talented young shooters. She played a crucial role in identifying Elavenil Valarivan during a talent hunt program in Gujarat. Elavenil has since gone on to become a double Olympian and a world-class shooter.
The Evolution of Shooting
Neha shared insights into the evolution of shooting in India. She highlighted the significant improvements in infrastructure and training facilities, which have contributed to the rise of Indian shooting. She also discussed the importance of a structured curriculum and the role of technology in modern-day shooting.
The Mental Game
Shooting is often referred to as a mental game, and Neha emphasized the importance of mental toughness and stress management. She shared techniques and strategies that she employs to help her athletes maintain focus and perform under pressure.
Memorable Moments and Future Goals
Neha reminisced about some of her most memorable moments as a coach, including Elavenil’s rise to the top and Dhanush Srikanth’s remarkable achievements in the Deaflympics. She also shared her vision for the future of Indian shooting and her aspirations for her athletes.
Neha Chavan’s inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her dedication to nurturing young talent and her contributions to Indian shooting have made a significant impact on the sport.
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