The Sports Authority of India (SAI), New Delhi, has announced a recruitment drive for 17 High Performance Coach positions on a contract basis across SAI centres nationwide. The online application window opens on 30 October 2026 and closes on 1 December 2026. Eligible candidates from across India are invited to apply through the official SAI recruitment portal.
Overview
This recruitment initiative aims to strengthen India's coaching infrastructure by filling 17 High Performance Coach vacancies at various SAI centres across the country. The position is contract-based and classified at Level-13 in the central government pay matrix. Selected candidates will contribute directly to the preparation and performance enhancement of India's athletes at national and international sporting events. Successful applicants will be deployed on an all-India basis, with posting and mobility determined by SAI's operational requirements.
This is an excellent opportunity for experienced coaches, former athletes, and sports professionals to serve the nation's sporting mission while earning a competitive salary and benefiting from government service credentials.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Opening Date for Online Application | 30 October 2026 |
| Closing Date for Online Application | 1 December 2026 |
Application Fee
See the official notification for details on application fee and payment method.
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Number of Posts | Pay Level | Posting |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Performance Coach | 17 | Level-13 | All-India basis (SAI centres) |
Eligibility
Candidates applying for the High Performance Coach position must satisfy at least one of the following criteria and comply with the age limit:
- Coaching Qualification: Hold a diploma in coaching from SAI National Institute of Sport (NIS), Patiala, or an equivalent qualification recognised by SAI.
- Sports Participation: Have participated in the Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, or World Championship and possess a certificate course in coaching.
- Dronacharya Award: Be a recipient of the prestigious Dronacharya Award.
- Prior Service: Hold an analogous post or have completed 5 years of regular service in Level-12 (or equivalent).
Age Limit: Maximum 64 years as on the opening date for submission of applications (30 October 2026). Age relaxation, if applicable, will follow government norms for reserved categories and other eligible candidates.
Selection Process: SAI will typically conduct a comprehensive selection comprising document verification, technical assessment, and personal interview to evaluate candidates' coaching competency, track record, and suitability for the role.
Salary
The High Performance Coach position is placed at Level-13 in the central government pay structure. The salary range is ₹123,100–₹215,900 per month (Last Pay Drawn Minus Pension). In addition to basic salary, selected candidates will be eligible for applicable allowances and benefits as per government rules. This is a contract-based appointment, and salary is subject to successful completion of the probation or contract trial period.
How to Apply
- Visit the Official Portal: Open your web browser and navigate to sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in.
- Register or Log In: Create a new user account or log in using your credentials. Ensure you have a valid email ID and mobile number for communication.
- Search the Vacancy: Locate the High Performance Coach recruitment notification (Advertisement No. A-12/8/2026-66) in the active vacancies section.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Before starting, download and read the full recruitment notification to understand all terms, conditions, and eligibility requirements.
- Fill the Application Form: Complete the online application form with accurate personal details, educational qualifications, work experience, and other required information. Double-check all entries.
- Upload Documents: Attach scanned copies (typically in PDF or JPG format, as specified) of the following: coaching diploma or NIS certificate, certificates of sports participation or achievement, Dronacharya Award certificate (if applicable), service records or appointment letters (if claiming Level-12 service credit), age proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport), passport-size photograph, and any other documents mentioned in the notification.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review all information and documents once more for accuracy. Ensure file sizes and formats comply with system requirements.
- Submit Before Deadline: Submit your application before 1 December 2026, 11:59 PM (or as specified). SAI will not accept submissions after the deadline.
- Save Confirmation: After successful submission, save your application reference number, login credentials, and confirmation email for future correspondence.
Important Links
- Official Notification PDF – Download the full recruitment notification for complete terms and conditions.
- Apply Online – Direct link to SAI's online recruitment portal.
- SAI Official Website – Visit for general information, latest updates, and FAQs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the contract duration for High Performance Coaches?
A: See the official notification for full details on contract period, renewal eligibility, and terms of engagement.
Q: What documents must I upload with my application?
A: You must upload scanned copies of your coaching qualification (NIS diploma or equivalent), certificates of national/international sports participation (if applicable), Dronacharya Award certificate (if applicable), service records or appointment letters from previous employment, age proof, and a passport-size photograph. Refer to the official notification for the complete and most current document checklist.
Q: Will I get a choice in posting location if selected?
A: Selected candidates will be posted on an all-India basis at SAI centres as per organisational requirements. Postings are typically determined by SAI management based on operational needs, and individual preference choices are not guaranteed.
Q: What is the age limit, and is relaxation available?
A: The maximum age limit is 64 years as on 30 October 2026 (the opening date of applications). Age relaxation, if applicable, will follow central government norms for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC), persons with disabilities, and other eligible groups as per rules.
Q: Is there an application fee?
A: See the official notification PDF for details on whether an application fee is applicable, the fee amount (if any), and the approved modes of payment.
Q: How many High Performance Coach positions are being filled, and when will results be announced?
A: SAI is recruiting for 17 High Performance Coach positions across the country. The selection process timeline and result announcement date will be communicated by SAI through the official website. Monitor the portal regularly for updates.
Disclaimer: All information provided above is based on the official SAI notification. Candidates are strongly advised to verify all details on the official SAI website (sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in) and the recruitment notification PDF before submitting their application.