Behind every young athlete is a coach who believes in their potential, sharpens their strengths, and guides them through every challenge — on and off the field. At Vidyanchal Sports Academy (VSA) in Aundh, we’re proud to be led by a coaching team that brings not only national and international experience but also the heart, patience, and vision to shape tomorrow’s champions.

Founded in 2017 by national-level athletes Bhalchandra and Shweta Murkute, VSA was built on the belief that quality coaching at the right age can make all the difference. Today, our certified and passionate coaches are turning that belief into results — one session, one skill, one athlete at a time.

Avadhoot Dandekar – From Ranji Trophy to Grassroots Development

Cricket at VSA is mentored by Avadhoot Dandekar, a former Maharashtra Ranji Trophy player with a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in high-pressure formats like the Vijay Hazare Trophy and C.K. Nayudu Trophy.

Having played professionally in the Belfast League (Northern Ireland) between 2013 and 2019, and coached as part of youth development programs overseas, Avadhoot brings global exposure and modern cricket thinking into every training module.

His recent appointment as Assistant Coach for Puneri Bappa (2025 T20 season) reflects his evolving role in India’s competitive cricket ecosystem. At VSA, he’s focused on developing players who can master both technique and temperament — whether it’s bowling a tight final over or pacing a tricky chase.

Kailash Shamlu – Guiding the Game, On and Off the Field

Heading our football program is Kailash Shamlu, a former Pune University footballer (1996–1997) and a certified D-License coach. With over 15 years of coaching experience, including over a decade as selector coach for Savitribai Phule Pune University, Kailash brings insight, consistency, and unmatched grassroots dedication.

His training approach blends tactical intelligence, speed drills, ball control, and teamwork — all tailored to suit players aged 4 to 16. Whether it’s teaching a 5-year-old how to dribble or helping a teen prepare for selection trials, his sessions strike the perfect balance between fun and focus.

A Philosophy Built on Structure and Sensitivity

What makes our coaches stand out isn’t just their résumés — it’s their philosophy. At VSA, our coaches believe that every child progresses differently. They focus on:

• Age-appropriate techniques
  
• Encouraging discipline through structure, not fear
  
• Creating a supportive, mistake-friendly environment
  
• Helping kids fall in love with effort, not just winning
  

They are mentors who show up every day not just to teach sport — but to build confidence, leadership, and character.

Unified, Multi-Sport Mentorship

One of VSA’s unique strengths is its multi-sport training model — and our coaches collaborate across disciplines. This allows for a dynamic exchange of knowledge, where:

• A cricket coach may help with footwork drills used in football
  
• A skating coach might build balance techniques beneficial for fielding
  
• Basketball agility routines are adapted for improving quick movement in all sports
  

This cross-sport philosophy helps children build a more well-rounded skillset, reduces the risk of burnout, and creates adaptable young athletes.

Coaches Who Lead by Example

Whether it’s arriving early for setup, staying back to work on a child’s weakness, or guiding players through losses — our coaches lead with humility and passion. They’ve walked the path themselves, and now they’re creating an environment where every child feels seen, challenged, and supported.

At VSA, you’re not just enrolling your child in a sports program — you’re connecting them with mentors who care deeply about their growth.

Final Thoughts

The success of a sports academy isn’t measured just in medals or matches won — it’s measured in the quality of mentorship it offers. At Vidyanchal Sports Academy, we’re proud of the experienced, empathetic, and expert coaches who are shaping the sporting dreams of Aundh’s next generation.

Come meet the faces behind our academy — and see how the right coach can make all the difference.