The Paris 2024 Olympics have concluded, and Indian shooters made a significant impact. India won the most medals in shooting, with a total of three.

One of these medals was won by Swapnil Kusale from Maharashtra, marking the state’s first Olympic medalist in 72 years. Swapnil secured the bronze in the Men's 50m Rifle 3-Position event. His success is attributed largely to his coach, Deepali Deshpande.

Deepali has been guiding Swapnil since the early days of his career. Notably, she also coached other shooters who participated in the Paris Olympics, including Arjun Babuta, Sifat Kaur, and Anjum Moudgil. Arjun Babuta also made it to the finals of the 10m Air Rifle event but narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fourth.

Deepali's efforts have been crucial in bringing these athletes to the international stage. Pranali Kodre's Interview with Coach Deepali Deshpande.

Congratulations on India's impressive performance in shooting at the Paris 2024 Olympics! How do you feel seeing your students achieve such success?

Deepali Deshpande: Thank you! It’s an indescribable feeling of joy and pride. Some of these students have been with me for years, and to see them achieve what they have is fulfilling. In a way, I feel like I’m living my Olympic dream through them. When they first came to me, I saw their potential, and I knew they could reach this level. Out of the six shooters I’ve guided, five secured Olympic quotas, and four made it to the Indian team. Swapnil winning a medal and Arjun coming so close is a testament to our hard work. Of course, there are always ups and downs, but these experiences reaffirm that we are on the right path. Our focus now is on doing even better in the next Olympics.

Coaching athletes with different temperaments must present its challenges. How do you manage that as a coach?

Deepali Deshpande: It can be challenging, especially when everyone faces issues simultaneously. But most of these athletes have been with me for a long time—Arjun since 2015, and others like Swapnil since 2013. This long-term relationship has helped us develop a strong bond, so I understand them well. With someone like Sift, who joined later, there were some adjustments, but overall, the trust they have in me makes it easier to guide them through difficult times.

Swapnil Kusale recently referred to you as his second mother after winning the bronze medal. How do you feel about that?

Deepali Deshpande: It’s touching. Swapnil and Arjun, among others, have been away from home, living in hostels since they were young. I understand their emotions because they often need emotional support. They have a strong bond with their mothers, and I’m glad to be someone they can lean on when needed. Swapnil and Arjun are particularly emotional, and it’s heartwarming to know they see me as a mother figure.

Can you share more about Swapnil's journey and why he chose the 50m Rifle 3-Position event?

Deepali Deshpande: Swapnil joined me through the junior air rifle team, but interestingly, he was always drawn to the 50m range. He found it more challenging and appealing. In 2013, he started with the prone position, but by 2014, he moved to the 3-position event. His progress was remarkable—he became the junior international champion in 2015 and continued to excel. He enjoys the challenge of the 3-position event, and despite the prone position being removed from the Olympics, he has remained focused and consistent.

How have changes in rules and technology impacted his performance?

Deepali Deshpande: The constant changes in rules, equipment, and technology over the past decade have certainly been challenging. Shooting is a skill-based sport, and when you’ve mastered a particular skill only to have the rules change, it can slow down progress. This happened with Swapnil’s generation. If not for these changes, he might have achieved this level of success even earlier. But he adapted, and that’s what matters.

Swapnil is also employed by the Railways as a ticket collector. How does he balance his job with his training?

Deepali Deshpande: Swapnil joined the Railways through the sports quota, so his schedule allows for ample time to train. The Railways have been supportive, understanding the demands of his sport. The 3-position event is like the marathon of shooting, requiring intense focus and endurance. Fortunately, he has been able to balance his job and training effectively.

The 3-position event is known to be stressful. How do you help your athletes manage this pressure?

Deepali Deshpande: We always emphasize focusing on their breathing and staying present. Concentrating on the process rather than the outcome is crucial. If they complete their shot process correctly, the results will follow, no matter the pressure. It’s about maintaining calmness and clarity under stress, and once they grasp that, they perform well.

How important are physical fitness and diet for shooters?

Deepali Deshpande: Physical fitness is absolutely essential in shooting. Just like any other sport, shooting requires both physical and mental strength. It’s easier to work on physical fitness, but developing mental resilience takes time. However, a strong body supports a strong mind, and this balance is key to their performance.

As an Olympian yourself, how does your experience benefit your coaching?

Deepali Deshpande: My experience as an Olympian definitely helps. I can guide my students through what to expect, especially in high-pressure situations. It’s not just about technical skills but also about managing emotions and expectations. My experience allows me to prepare them for the challenges they’ll face.

You’re also a painter. How do hobbies like this benefit you as a coach and athlete?

Deepali Deshpande: Having a hobby provides a mental break from the daily routine. It helps in recovery and keeps the mind fresh. Interestingly, many shooters take up painting because it requires precision, similar to shooting. It’s a way to unwind while still honing the skills that make them great shooters.