MARGAO
Renowned Kerala football coach TK Chathunni passed away on Wednesday after a brief illness. He breathed his last at a hospital in Kochi. He was 78. Chathunni is survived by his wife and two daughters
The former Indian player had over half a century of experience as both, a football player and coach. He held an unparalleled position in the history of Indian football.
A well-known defender of the 1960s and 1970s, Chathunni was a member of the Indian team in the 1973 Merdeka Tournament in Kuala Lumpur. He played six matches for the National team. In domestic football, he played for EME Centre, Secunderabad, Vasco Club, Goa and Orkay Mills, Mumbai. Similarly, he represented Santosh Trophy teams like Services, Goa and Maharashtra (state team).
Under Chathunni's coaching, many became leading figures in Indian football, including the likes of Kerala player I M Vijayan and Bruno Coutinho of Goa.
Chathunni's life as a coach was also distinguished. In 1979, he coached Kerala in the Santosh Trophy. In 1990, he coached MRF Goa, Churchill Goa, KSEB ,Kerala Police, Dempo, Salgaocar, Mohun Bagan, FC Cochin, VIVA Kerala, Golden Threads, Josco FC and VIVA Chennai, among others, leading various clubs in four major footballing states in India.
The President of Goa Football Association Dr Caitano Fernandes in his condolence said: "It's sad to hear that one of India's greatest footballers is no more. His contribution to Indian football will never be forgotten. I share the grief. His contribution to Goan and Indian football will never be forgotten and will remain alive in our hearts."
Senior vice president of Goa Football Association Anthony Pango said "Chathunni will be alive in his acheivements. He was a legendary footballer and someone who has been an inspiration to so many generations. May he rest in peace."
"Chathunni was a solid defender and was an integral part of the famous Vasco SC team that won many tournaments especially in South India. He was very successful as a coach guiding different teams to success in the National league and other tournaments," condoled former General secretary of AIFF Alberto Colaco
"Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Coach Chathunni. He was not only a remarkable coach but also a profound mentor and inspiration to many of us. Personally, I am indebted to him for being an important part of my football career. His dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time" said former India and Salgaocar FC defender Franky Baretto.
"Though I didn’t get to interact with him during my GFA days, I know that besides his home state Kerala, playing for Goa in Santosh trophy had made Chathunni a household name in the State during those years. He was there on field during the glory era of football in Goa. Memory of such players need to be kept alive for posterity," said Elvis Gomes former president of Goa Football Association.
