There were poignant moments when top national and international swimming stars like Aditi Mutatkar and Veerdhawal Khade among many other past and present swimmers of repute paid glowing tributes to swimming coach Subodh Danke, during the condolence meeting held at packed Khar Gymkhana hall here yesterday.
Danke, 64, who was also the General Secretary of the Greater Mumbai Amateurs Aquatic Association, passed away due to heart failure at his residence on March 16. Danke, who in his younger days, was a water-polo player of class, later switched to coaching swimmers which he carried on for over three decades at Khar Gymkhana. He dedicated his whole life to coaching school boys and girls, who later earned laurels for the state and the nation.
International and National records holder in sprints, Aditi Mutatkar, whom, Danke coached for over 15 years, spoke highly of him about his work ethics, his low and high points in life. “ He was like a father figure to me and many others like me. A strict disciplinarian on the pool deck and was equally jovial and loving friend otherwise. He earned the respect of not only the trainees under him, but also of the parents and even other competitors. I must say some of my fondest swimming memories were only because of him.”
There were virtual tears in many eyes when she said: “Let us not mourn his death, instead we must celebrate his life, for everyone here that he has had a positive impact on, let’s live our life in a way that would have made him proud.” While concluding she added: “We promise you Danke sir, that we will not your legacy and teachings go in waste for we know there will never be another YOU!
Veerdhawal Khade, who represented India in the Asian championships, attributed his success to Danke’s guidance.”Danke Sir, helped me a lot, he was like a friend and my guide. He was responsible for bringing me here from Kolhapur. His dedication and training methods helped me to do well,” Khade said.
The GMAA president Pradeep Divgikar paid rich tributes to his colleague. “For me he was more than a friend, he was like a brother to me. The void he left behind in the swimming circles in city and suburbs will be hard to fill. But I do hope, wherever he is now, will always be with us in spirit.” Khar Gymkhana managing committee have decided to rename their famous Khar Gym Open Marathon Swim Gala by calling it Subodh Danke Memorial Open Marathon Gala. They will also be holding a water- polo match in his memory on Saturday at their pool.