On this planet of sports activities, few people embody the spirit of dedication, transformation, and management like Shreepada R. Rao. From his humble beginnings in Karnataka to turning into an internationally acknowledged Taekwondo grasp, referee, coach, and sports activities administrator, Mr. Rao’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes and sports activities professionals throughout India.
A Lifelong Dedication to Martial Arts
Shreepada R. Rao began learning martial arts as a child in Puttur with Shito Ryu Karate. Later, he moved to Belagavi and started training in Shotokan Karate. But it was his switch to Olympic-style Taekwondo under Master Subhash Yadav that shaped his career. Over the years, he earned the 4th Dan Black Belt, certified by Kukkiwon – WT HQ in South Korea.
In 2012, he started Rao’s Yuva Academy in Belagavi, a training center that has helped many young athletes grow. His academy is officially recognized by the Taekwondo Federation of India, showing his strong role in supporting new talent in the sport.
Management in Teaching and Refereeing
Mr. Rao’s work goes beyond just coaching. He has played key roles in both national and international Taekwondo events — including being a National Referee (Class II), Tournament Director, Technical Director, and Chief Referee at many championships. His efforts to improve technical standards and promote fair play have helped raise the level of Taekwondo in Karnataka and other regions.
He has also coached the Belagavi District team in State Championships and led teams in major events like the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan. Internationally, he holds Level I & II Coach Certifications from World Taekwondo and has received a World License as a Referee, Coach, and Official from World Taekwondo, Lausanne.
Worldwide Recognition and Awards
Mr. Rao’s contributions have earned him nationwide and worldwide accolades:
- Gold Medal on the Worldwide Seashore Fight Video games (2019) in Goa
- World Sports activities Star Award (2022) by World Sports activities Martial Arts Council, USA
- Greatest Coach in Taekwondo inducted into the World Taekwondo Corridor of Fame India
- Worldwide Icon Award (2025) for his work in sports activities improvement and social service
Driving Sports activities Improvement and Social Change
Past Taekwondo, Mr. Rao is actively concerned in sports activities schooling and group service. He’s the Founding Trustee and Chairman of the Yakshit Yuva Basis, an NGO working towards youth improvement and social welfare. His contributions embody introducing the Karavali and Konkan Taekwondo Championships and integrating Taekwondo into college sports activities curricula.
As a Senior Vice President of the Belagavi District Taekwondo Affiliation, he continues to affect sports activities coverage and administration. His efforts had been additionally acknowledged by the Karnataka Authorities, which awarded him a commendation for selling Taekwondo throughout the state.
A Legacy in Movement
At the moment serving as a Authorities Worker, Shreepada R. Rao embodies self-discipline, resilience, and repair. He has seamlessly blended his martial arts experience with administrative acumen, constructing a legacy that bridges aggressive sports activities and group upliftment.
From teaching younger skills to representing India at international boards just like the World Para Taekwondo Workshop, Mr. Rao’s work is shaping the way forward for martial arts in India. His life is not only a private journey of excellence—it’s a mission to encourage, educate, and empower the following era of sports activities champions.
