Michael Nobbs Dies at 72: Legacy as Kookaburra and India Hockey Coach Endures

Michael Nobbs, the former Australian hockey international who later coached the Indian men's national team at the 2012 London Olympics, has passed away at the age of 72 following a prolonged illness. Hockey Australia announced the news on January 29, 2026, expressing deep condolences to his family, friends, former teammates, and the broader hockey community. Nobbs is survived by his wife, Lee Capes—a former Australian women's international player—and their daughter Kaitlin Nobbs, a current star of the Hockeyroos.

During his playing days, Nobbs was a dependable defender for the Australian Kookaburras, earning 76 caps between 1979 and 1985 and scoring one international goal. He featured prominently in one of the strongest eras of Australian men's hockey, representing his country at the 1981 Hockey World Cup in Bombay and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Known for his exceptional fitness, discipline, and professionalism, he consistently earned the trust of coaches and teammates through hard work and reliability on the halfback line and at fullback.

After retiring from playing, Nobbs transitioned into coaching and took charge of the Indian men's team in 2011. He guided India to qualification for the London Olympics after their absence from the 2008 Beijing Games, but the team struggled at the tournament, finishing last in their group and prompting his departure shortly afterward. He also coached the Japan national team during his career, contributing to hockey development in Asia and bringing a structured, professional approach to the programs he led.

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Hockey Australia paid tribute to Nobbs as a "proud Kookaburra, a respected professional, and a servant of the sport," emphasizing the positive influence he had on players and colleagues across generations. His work with India, though brief and challenging, came at a pivotal time for the program as it sought to regain international competitiveness. The hockey fraternity in Australia, India, and beyond has remembered him for his integrity, dedication, and ability to bridge different hockey cultures.

The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from former players, coaches, and federations, highlighting his lasting legacy as both a committed athlete and a mentor. Nobbs' contributions to the sport—spanning playing, coaching, and international collaboration—will continue to be remembered by those whose careers he touched.

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