SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 323 Posts, Check Eligibility

SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 323 Posts, Check Eligibility

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has released a major recruitment notification for 2026, inviting applications for 323 Assistant Coach positions. This Regular Basis recruitment aims to strengthen India's sports coaching infrastructure. Candidates with a Diploma in Coaching or significant International Sports participation are encouraged to apply online before the deadline. This is a golden opportunity for sports professionals to join a premier national organization.

SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 Overview

Sports Authority of India Assistant Coach Vacancy Details 2026
SAI Assistant Coach Direct Recruitment 2026 Advertisement No.:- 01/2026
Recruitment AuthoritySports Authority of India (SAI)
Post NameAssistant Coach
Total Vacancies323
Job LocationAll India (Regional Centres/NCOE)
Start Date to Apply15 January 2026
Last Date to Apply14 February 2026
QualificationDiploma in Coaching / Olympic/International Participation
Age LimitMaximum 40 Years
Selection ProcessWritten Exam & Interview
SalaryPay Level 6 (Rs. 35,400 - 1,12,400)
Application Fees General/OBC/EWS: Rs. 500/-
SC/ST/Ex-SM/Women: Nil
Payment Mode: Online
Application ModeOnline via SAI Official Website
Syllabus & PYQs PDFDownload PDF
Official NotificationDownload PDF
Official WebsiteSports Authority of India
👉 Apply Online Now

Important Date

  • Notification Released: 15 January 2026
  • Application Start: 15 January 2026
  • Last Date : 14 February 2026
  • Correction Date: To be notified
  • Exam Date: To be notified
  • Admit Card: Available soon

Age Limit

  • Minimum Age: Not Specified
  • Maximum Age: 40 Years
  • Age Relaxation:
    • SC/ST: 05 Years, OBC: 03 Years
    • Departmental (SAI) Candidates: 05 Years
  • Note: Kindly Read Full Official Notification Before Apply.

Application Fees

  • General, OBC, and EWS: Rs. 500/-
  • SC, ST, Women, and Ex-Servicemen: Exempted (Nil)

Qualification

  • Diploma in Coaching from SAI, NS NIS, or any other recognized Indian/Foreign University.
  • OR Medal winner in Olympic/World Championship or Twice participation in Olympics.
  • OR Medal winner in Asian Games/Commonwealth Games with 2 years experience.

Full Eligibility

Candidates must ensure they meet the specific sports discipline requirements. The eligibility criteria are divided into three categories based on educational qualification and sports achievement. Professional coaching experience and national-level participation are key components for a successful application.

SAI Assistant Coach Eligibility Criteria Table
Category Qualification / Requirement
Diploma Holders Diploma in Coaching from SAI/NS NIS or equivalent recognized university.
Elite Athletes (A) Medal winner in Olympic/World Championship or 2-time Olympic participation.
Elite Athletes (B) Medal winner in Asian/Commonwealth Games OR World Cup participation with 2 years experience.

Salary

The selected Assistant Coaches will be placed in a competitive Pay Scale as per the 7th Pay Commission. In addition to basic pay, candidates are entitled to various Central Government allowances like DA, HRA, and Transport Allowance.

SAI Assistant Coach Salary Structure 2026
Component Details
Pay Level Level 6
Pay Matrix Rs. 35,400 - 1,12,400/-
Grade Pay Rs. 4,200/- (Pre-revised)
  • Selected candidates will receive NPS benefits.
  • Medical facilities and LTC as per SAI rules.
  • Annual increments based on performance reviews.

Selection Process

The selection process for SAI Assistant Coach is rigorous to ensure only the best talent is recruited. It involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical coaching insight evaluated through a structured examination system.

  • Written Examination: Assessing sports-specific knowledge and general aptitude.
  • Interview/Oral Test: To evaluate communication and coaching philosophy.
  • Document Verification: Scrutiny of original sports and educational certificates.
  • Medical Examination: Ensuring fitness for the rigorous coaching role.

Post / Category Wise Vacancy

There are a total of 323 vacancies distributed across various reservation categories. Candidates can apply for one of the 28 sports disciplines mentioned in the official notification.

SAI Assistant Coach Vacancy Distribution 2026
Category Number of Vacancies
UR (Unreserved) 132
OBC 87
SC 48
ST 24
EWS 32
Total 323

Job Profile & Responsibility

An Assistant Coach at SAI is responsible for identifying and nurturing budding talent across India. They work closely with senior coaches to implement scientific training methods and monitor athlete progress at NCOEs and Regional Centres.

Roles and Responsibilities of Assistant Coach
Area Responsibility
Training Conducting daily technical and tactical training sessions.
Monitoring Keeping track of athletes' physical and psychological health.
Planning Assisting in the development of long-term athlete development (LTAD) plans.
  • Manage biomotor integration (speed, strength, flexibility) in training.
  • Ensure specificity of training aligned with international standards.
  • Maintain variety and creativity in sessions to sustain athlete motivation.

How To Apply

Eligible candidates can apply for the SAI Assistant Coach position exclusively through the online portal. No other mode of application will be accepted by the Sports Authority of India.

  • Visit the official SAI website: sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in.
  • Go to the "Job Opportunities" or "Recruitment" section.
  • Register yourself using a valid email ID and mobile number.
  • Fill in the Personal, Educational, and Sports Achievement details.
  • Upload scanned copies of required documents (Photo, Signature, Certificates).
  • Pay the Application Fee online (if applicable).
  • Submit the form and Download the Confirmation Page for future reference.

Important Links


FAQs

What is the last date to apply for SAI Assistant Coach 2026?

The last date to submit the online application is 14 February 2026.

How many vacancies are available in SAI Recruitment 2026?

A total of 323 vacancies for the post of Assistant Coach are available.

Is this a regular or contract job?

This recruitment is for Assistant Coaches on a Regular Basis.

What is the age limit for this post?

The maximum age limit is 40 years, with relaxations for reserved categories as per government rules.

Who is exempt from paying the application fee?

Candidates belonging to SC, ST, Women, and Ex-Servicemen categories are exempt from paying the fee.