The Sports Authority of India (SAI) Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 is a major opportunity for aspiring coaches and sports professionals across India. SAI has officially announced the recruitment of 323 Assistant Coach posts in various sports disciplines. This drive aims to strengthen coaching support at SAI’s Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), and other training facilities nationwide.
This recruitment is part of India’s push to enhance athlete development and achieve better results in international events like the Olympics and Asian Games.
Key Highlights of SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026
- Total Vacancies: 323 posts (Assistant Coach – Group B, regular basis)
- Sports Disciplines Covered: 26 disciplines, including high-priority ones like Athletics, Shooting, Swimming, Wrestling, Archery, Badminton, Boxing, Hockey, Football, and more.
- Reservation: Approximately 33% reserved for women candidates.
- Posting: Across India at SAI centres.
This is a golden chance for qualified individuals in sports coaching to secure a prestigious government job with the premier sports body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Important Dates
- Notification Release Date: January 2026 (around mid-January)
- Online Application Start Date: 1 February 2026 (or 10 February in some updates; confirm on official site)
- Last Date to Apply Online: 15 February 2026
- Application Mode: Online only via the official SAI portal
Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues!
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification:
- Diploma in Coaching from a recognized institution (e.g., SAI NS NIS or equivalent), OR
- Participation at international level (Olympics/Paralympics/Asian Games/World Championships) with a Certificate Course in Coaching, OR
- Dronacharya Awardee or equivalent high achievers in coaching/sports.
- Age Limit: Maximum 30 years (as of the crucial date mentioned in the notification).
- Age relaxation applicable as per government norms:
- OBC: +3 years
- SC/ST: +5 years
- PwD and other categories: As per rules
- Age relaxation applicable as per government norms:
- Nationality: Indian citizens only.
Check the official notification PDF for discipline-wise specific requirements, as some sports may have additional criteria.
Salary and Benefits
Selected candidates will be placed in Pay Level-6 of the 7th Pay Commission.
- Pay Scale: ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400 per month
- Additional perks include allowances (DA, HRA, TA), medical facilities, pension benefits (NPS), and job security in a central government organization.
This offers a stable and rewarding career in sports coaching.
Selection Process
The selection for SAI Assistant Coach 2026 typically involves:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT): Objective-type exam covering sports science, general knowledge, coaching principles, and discipline-specific knowledge.
- Coaching Aptitude Test (CAT) / Practical Demonstration / Interview: To assess coaching skills, techniques, and experience.
- Document verification and medical examination.
Final merit list based on performance in these stages.
How to Apply Online for SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official website: sportsauthorityofindia.gov.in or the recruitment portal saijobs.sportsauthorityofindia.gov.in.
- Go to the “Jobs” or “Career” section and find the Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 link.
- Register with basic details (name, email, mobile) to generate login credentials.
- Fill the online application form carefully, upload scanned documents (photo, signature, certificates).
- Pay the application fee (if applicable; check notification for UR/OBC vs reserved categories).
- Submit and download the confirmation page for reference.
Application Fee (tentative, confirm in official notice):
- General/OBC: Around ₹1000–₹2500
- SC/ST/PwD/Women: Exempted or reduced
Why This Recruitment Matters
With India aiming for top positions in global sports, SAI is expanding its coaching workforce. Joining as an Assistant Coach means contributing directly to nurturing future Olympians and medal winners.
Don’t miss this limited opportunity—323 posts across 26 disciplines won’t last long!
Download Official Notification
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