- Sports: For his illustrious service as a strategic and dynamic Sports Administrator.
- Social Service: For his humanitarian service initiatives towards society, women empowerment, and fostering rural talents through sports under his NGO, Yakshit Yuva Foundation
This accolade is a testament to his extraordinary contributions to the world of sports as a coach, referee, and administrator, alongside his selfless service as a humanitarian.
A Martial Arts Prodigy
Master Rao’s journey in the martial arts domain commenced at the tender age of 9 when he first trained in Shito Ryu Style Karate under the esteemed Karate Master Subramanya Paarla and Grand Master Thomas in Puttur, Karnataka. His relentless pursuit of excellence saw him transition into Shotokan Karate before embracing Olympic Taekwondo under Master Subhash Yadav at the age of 16. This formative phase cemented his dedication to Taekwondo, leading him to achieve the prestigious 4th Dan International Black Belt certification from Kukkiwon – World Taekwondo Headquarters, Seoul, South Korea, in 2023.
A Revered Coach and Sports Administrator
Determined to nurture young talent, Master Rao established the Rao’s Yuva Academy in 2012, which has become a premier Taekwondo training centre in Belagavi, Karnataka with being ISO 9001:2015 certification since 2022. Registered under the Taekwondo Federation of India in the year 2014, the academy has trained numerous athletes in Taekwondo. Many of his students have gone on to excel at district, state, and national championships, bringing laurels to their families.
His expertise as a coach has been recognised with prestigious certifications, including the World Taekwondo Level I & II International Coach Certifications, Post Graduate Diploma in Sports Coaching from Sunrise University, Alwar and an NIS Certificate in Sports Coaching (Taekwondo) from the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports, Patiala. His coaching prowess was globally acknowledged when he was inducted into the World Sports Martial Arts Council’s Hall of Fame in the USA, receiving the Best Coach in the Field of Taekwondo Award in 2022.
In his administrative roles, Taekwondo Master Rao has significantly contributed to the promotion of Taekwondo at multiple levels. Serving as the Technical Director of Karnataka Taekwondo Association, the Senior Vice-President of Belagavi District Taekwondo Association & the Chairman of Udupi District Taekwondo Association, he has played a crucial role in structuring Taekwondo events, refining officiating standards, and ensuring the Taekwondo sport’s growth across Karnataka.
An Accomplished Referee and Tournament Director
As a certified National Referee, Taekwondo Master Rao has officiated as Technical Director at several high-profile tournaments, including twice in CBSE South Zone Championships, thrice in DASARA Games Chief Minister’s Cup, and more than 10 times at State Taekwondo Championships. His leadership roles as Tournament Director and Competition Supervisor in numerous district, state, and national events have elevated the standards of Taekwondo officiating, ensuring fair play and professionalism in the sport.
A Decorated Athlete and International Competitor
Beyond his coaching and officiating endeavours, Taekwondo Master Rao has demonstrated exceptional skill as a competitor. He clinched a Gold Medal at the Belagavi District Taekwondo Championship (2014) in the Junior Category (Under 40 KG) and later achieved international acclaim by winning Gold for India in the Senior (Under 54 KG) Category at the International Beach Combat Games (2019) in Goa.
A Visionary Leader in Sports Development
Taekwondo Master Rao’s contributions extend beyond Taekwondo. He played a pivotal role in integrating Taekwondo, an Olympic discipline into the sports curriculum of Rani Channamma University, Belagavi. His initiatives, such as launching the Karavali Taekwondo Championship, have provided a much-needed platform for emerging athletes in Karnataka’s coastal regions.
A Life Dedicated to Social Service and Humanitarian Efforts
Parallel to his illustrious sports career, Taekwondo Master Rao has been a torchbearer of humanitarian service. As the Founding Trustee & Chairman of Yakshit Yuva Foundation, he has spearheaded initiatives focused on youth empowerment, social welfare, and community development. His philanthropic efforts have benefitted numerous underprivileged individuals, reinforcing his belief in using sports as a key for social transformation.
Recognitions and Global Impact
Taekwondo Master Rao’s exceptional contributions have earned him numerous awards and accolades, including:
• INTERNATIONAL ICON AWARD 2025 for Sports and Social Service in January 2025.
• Commendation by the Hon’ble Minister of Water Resources, Govt. of Karnataka (2020) for his outstanding contributions to Taekwondo.
• Induction into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame India (2022) by Dr. Grandmaster Jimmy R. Jagtiani, the Father of Taekwondo in India.
• World Sports Star Award (2022) from the World Sports Martial Arts Council, USA.
• Global License as a Referee, Coach, and Official (2020) from World Taekwondo, Lausanne, Switzerland.
• Induction into the World Taekwondo Partnership Program (2023) with a scholarship for advanced international training at Taekwondowon, Muju, South Korea.
A Legacy for Future Generations
Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Sports Administration & Management at East Bridge University, Paris, Taekwondo Master Shreepada R. Rao continues to make a profound impact in the field of sports and humanitarian service. His recognition in the International World Records Book and his INTERNATIONAL ICON AWARD 2025 serve as a beacon of inspiration for athletes, administrators, and changemakers worldwide.
As he continues his journey, his legacy stands as a testament to the transformative power of sports in shaping lives and communities. For aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts his story is a reminder that excellence is not merely about winning medals but about uplifting others, fostering discipline, and leaving an enduring impact on society.
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