NEW DELHI: These are exciting times for Indian football. While the India under-17 players took their first step towards becoming professionals by playing in the World Cup, eight former India stars have taken a step to become professional coaches.Former stars Jo Paul Ancheri Alex Ambrose and Dinesh Nair had all undergone an AFC 'A' license course held in Kolkata last month under course instructors Savio Medeira, who is also AIFF's acting technical director, and Scott O'Donell of Australia. This is probably a first - a record eight former players, most of whom were contemporaries in their playing days, all underwent the exam at the same time.While the result is expected by the end of this week, a source said that most of the former players are expected to clear the exam. Getting an AFC 'A' license certificate will enable the players to coach I-League teams from the forthcoming season.Former Mohun Bagan midfielder Renedy Singh, who played 56 times for India, said it was important to understand how to manage players as a coach. "It was a one month-long course divided into two modules of 15 days each. One of the major aspects of coaching is to understanding man-management techniques. Since everyone comes with their individual mindset, you have to apply specific techniques for each player while interacting with them," Renedy told TOI.Before taking the course, most of the players were working as assistants at various ISL clubs. While Renedy was with FC Pune City, Alex Ambrose was working with Mumbai City FC. "The transition is never easy from a player to a coach. So it's important to learn the ropes as an assistant coach. I got the training at FC Pune City and it has really helped me when I took the course," said Renedy.However, getting the license isn't a cakewalk, as Ancheri would tell you. The former midfielder had appeared for the exam last year but failed to clear it before applying for it again. Medeira said it is important for a coach to manage time as well. "You have to manage your time because you are strategizing, training and managing your players. But this is a good trend — many former stars are realising the importance of being trained coaches and joining the profession," Medeira said.