Archive · 29 Jan 2026
Michael Nobbs, Legendary Hockey Coach, Passes Away
Michael Nobbs was a famous hockey player and coach who played for Australia and later coached India and Japan.
He played in big tournaments like the World Cup and the Olympics.
He was very good at his job and was respected by many people.
He recently passed away at the age of 72.
His family and the hockey community are sad to lose him.
He will be remembered for his hard work and dedication to the sport.
Nobbs loved Indian food and humor, which helped him connect with his players and understand the complexities of Indian hockey.
Michael Nobbs, former Australian hockey player and coach, has died at 72 after a prolonged illness.
He represented Australia in 76 international matches and played in the 1981 World Cup and 1984 Olympics.
Nobbs coached the Indian men's hockey team at the 2012 London Olympics and was known for improving the team's fitness and conditioning.
He was renowned for his man-management skills and ability to connect with players through humor and food.
Nobbs is survived by his wife Lee Capes, a former Australian women’s international, and daughter Kaitlin, a current Hockeyroos star.
- Who
- Michael Nobbs, former Australian hockey player and coach
- What
- Passed away after a prolonged illness
- When
- January 29
- Where
- Melbourne, Australia
- Why
- Not specified in the articles
Players' Revolt
Coaching Challenges
Player Behavior
Players' Revolt
A group of players (Punjab) were more focused on themselves than the team, staging a revolt during the 2012 London Olympics.
Coaching Challenges
Nobbs found the atmosphere increasingly suffocating due to government interference, Hockey India, and player unrest.
- Name
- Michael Nobbs
- Age
- 72
- Nationality
- Australian
- International Caps
- 76
- Teams Coached
- India, Japan
- Survived By
- Wife Lee Capes, Daughter Kaitlin
- Playing Career
- 1979 to 1985
- Coaching Career in India
- 2011 to 2013
