Manpreet Singh is a name that is brought up often in the Indian kabaddi community, known for his transition from a great player to a successful coach. Born into sports, he made a name for himself as a tenacious and strategic all-rounder. At an international level, Manpreet was a main man for the Indian team, which won gold in the 2002 and 2006 Asiana Games. Also, it was his leadership skills and fearless play that made him a key member of India’s great run in kabaddi at that time.
At home, Manpreet did very well in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) with the Patna Pirates. In Season 3 which the Pirates won and lifted the trophy, he did key work, which in turn secured his place as a talented raider but also as a strategic player on the mat.
Transition to Coaching
After leaving professional hockey, Manpreet Singh went into coaching, which saw him take on the role of mentor and that of a tactician. His first big job was with the Gujarat Fortunegiants, which he did very well to lead the new team to the finals in their very first season. That did for him what no report ever could; it proved his ability to take raw talent and turn it into championship material.
Coaching Philosophy and Style
Manpreet’s approach as a coach is to foster team play, mental fortitude, and adaptability. He is of the mind that kabaddi is a team game which extends beyond star players and is won by the united effort of all members of the squad, which in turn brings out equal play from each member. Also, he puts into use video analysis, studies of the opposition, and tactical game plans, which help his teams to stay a step ahead of the competition. Off the mat, he works on discipline, trust and motivation, which he improves upon by working very closely with players to raise their confidence and decision-making.
Success with Haryana Steelers
In the past few seasons, Manpreet has been the head of the Haryana Steelers, which at the time had been trying to achieve consistency. Under his guidance, the Steelers became a very strong and balanced team. His tactics paid off in PKL Season 11, which saw the Haryana Steelers secure their first-ever league title. That victory was historic for the franchise and also personal for Manpreet, who saw himself become the first person to win the PKL as a player and a coach.
The title run was a result of his ability to put together aggressive play styles, with, at the same time, very solid defence, also he made great auction calls, which in turn improved the team. Manpreet has always said that we win as a group, which is a team effort and not by the doings of a few superstars.
Legacy and Outlook in 2025
By 2025, Manpreet Singh will be a name that goes down as a great force in Indian Kabaddi. Also, he was honoured by the Dhyan Chand Award, for which he put in a lifetime of work in the sport. While trophies are great, what leaves a lasting legacy is that he mentored young talent and served as a role model for future Kabaddi stars.
Looking into the future, Manpreet is at the forefront of the changes that are to come in the sport. With Haryana Steelers’ defence of their title and the development of young talent under his watch, he is still the preeminent force in terms of authority, discipline and vision.
