A trailblazing sports administration expert, martial arts administrator and coach who carved Karnataka’s place on the global Taekwondo map through unwavering dedication, exemplary leadership, and an indomitable spirit of service*
In the annals of Indian sports administration and martial arts development, few names resonate with the profound impact and pioneering spirit of Taekwondo Master Shreepada R. Rao, a distinguished sports administration expert who has not merely excelled in Taekwondo coaching but has fundamentally transformed the landscape of this Olympic discipline across Karnataka and beyond. His remarkable journey from a young enthusiast to becoming Karnataka’s first International Taekwondo Coach Level I represents a paradigmatic shift in the state’s sporting excellence and administrative prowess, establishing him as one of India’s foremost sports administration experts.
The Genesis of a Visionary
The odyssey of Taekwondo Master Rao commenced in the verdant landscapes of Puttur, Dakshina Kannada, where a nine-year-old boy first encountered the disciplined world of martial arts through Shito Ryu Style Karate. This initial foray into combat sports would prove to be the foundational cornerstone of an illustrious career that would span over a decade and a half, ultimately culminating in unprecedented achievements for Karnataka’s sporting fraternity.
The transition from Karate’s Shotokan Style in Belagavi at the tender age of twelve to the Olympic discipline of Taekwondo under the tutelage of Master Subhash Yadav at sixteen marked a pivotal juncture in his martial arts trajectory. This metamorphosis would prove to be serendipitous, as it aligned his aspirations with an Olympic sport that would become his life’s calling and Karnataka’s gateway to international recognition.
Unprecedented Achievement: Karnataka’s First International Coach
The year 2020 stands as a watershed moment in Karnataka’s Taekwondo history, when Taekwondo Master Shreepada R. Rao achieved the distinction of becoming the first individual from the state to attain the prestigious World Taekwondo Level I International Coach Certification. This groundbreaking accomplishment, bestowed by World Taekwondo, Lausanne, Switzerland, not only elevated his personal standing but established Karnataka as a formidable force in the global Taekwondo community.
This certification represented far more than a personal triumph; it symbolised Karnataka’s emergence as a centre of excellence for Taekwondo coaching methodologies and sports science applications. The rigorous assessment process, encompassing advanced coaching fundamentals and international-level competency standards, positioned Taekwondo Master Rao as a beacon of technical expertise and pedagogical excellence.
Sports Administration Excellence and Academic Distinction
Taekwondo Master Rao’s evolution as a sports administration expert is exemplified through his impressive academic credentials and practical expertise. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Sports Administration and Management from East Bridge University, Paris, he has already distinguished himself with a Master’s degree in Physical Education and a Post Graduate Diploma in Sports Coaching, both achieved with first-class honours. His Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration further underscores his multifaceted approach to sports development and administrative excellence, forming the foundation of his expertise as a sports administration specialist.
The completion of the Certificate Course in Sports Coaching from the prestigious Netaji Subhash National Institute of Sports, Patiala, with a Grade ‘B’ distinction, demonstrates his mastery of sports science disciplines including Exercise Physiology, Sports Anthropometry, Sports Biochemistry, Sports Biomechanics, Sports Psychology, and Strength Conditioning. This comprehensive understanding of sports science principles has been instrumental in his coaching methodologies and athlete development programmes.
International Recognition and Global Engagement
Taekwondo Master Rao’s international stature was further consolidated in 2023 when he was selected for the prestigious World Taekwondo Partnership Programme with a scholarship to complete the Advanced International Instructor Course at Taekwondowon Muju, South Korea. This selection, facilitated by World Taekwondo and the Ministry of Sports, Culture, and Tourism of the Republic of South Korea, positioned him amongst an elite cohort of global Taekwondo instructors.
His progression to World Taekwondo Level II International Coach Certification in 2024 marked another milestone, granting him clearance to lead Taekwondo teams at events of all grades at the international level. This advancement solidified his position as one of India’s most qualified Taekwondo coaches and technical experts.
His participation in distinguished international forums, including the World Para Taekwondo Workshop in January 2021 as a representative of India Taekwondo, and the University Sports and Peace Forum in April 2021, demonstrates his commitment to global Taekwondo development and peace-building initiatives through sport.
Institutional Leadership and Innovation
The establishment of Rao’s Yuva Academy in 2012 at Sri Siddheshwar Temple Campus, Kakati Village, represents Taekwondo Master Rao’s visionary approach to grassroots sports development. The academy, which focuses on delivering world-class Taekwondo training to the underprivileged whilst nurturing overall student development through programmes that emphasise physical conditioning, mental strength, and ethical values, has become a cornerstone of Taekwondo development in the region.
His innovative contributions extend to the creation of premier championships, including the “Karavali Taekwondo Championship” under the aegis of Karnataka Taekwondo, designed to emphasise sport development in coastal Karnataka. The subsequent introduction of the “Konkan Taekwondo Development Championship” further expanded his influence to the coastal Malvan and Konkan regions of Maharashtra, demonstrating his pan-regional vision for Taekwondo proliferation.
Administrative Excellence and Transformational Leadership
Taekwondo Master Rao’s administrative acumen is evidenced through his diverse roles within Karnataka’s Taekwondo hierarchy. His tenure as Technical Director of Karnataka Taekwondo Association from 2018-2022 was marked by significant improvements in technical standards and competition protocols. His current role as Senior Vice-President of Belagavi District Taekwondo Association continues to influence the strategic direction of the sport’s development.
Revolutionary CEO Leadership: Modernising Belagavi District’s Taekwondo Infrastructure
Perhaps his most transformational contribution came during his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Belagavi District Taekwondo Association from 2018-2022, where Taekwondo Master Rao spearheaded the comprehensive modernisation of the district’s entire Taekwondo ecosystem. As CEO, this sports administration expert orchestrated a paradigmatic transformation that elevated Belagavi from a traditional sporting district to a modern, technologically-advanced hub of Taekwondo excellence.
Under his visionary CEO leadership, Belagavi District witnessed unprecedented modernisation initiatives that included the implementation of cutting-edge digital scoring systems, establishment of standardised training protocols aligned with international benchmarks, and the creation of sophisticated athlete development pathways. His administrative expertise as CEO facilitated the integration of modern sports science methodologies into traditional coaching frameworks, revolutionising how Taekwondo was taught, practised, and administered throughout the district.
As an able propagator of Taekwondo excellence, Taekwondo Master Rao’s CEO tenure was characterised by innovative outreach programmes that significantly expanded the sport’s reach across diverse demographics. His strategic propagation initiatives included the establishment of satellite training centres in rural areas, the introduction of school-based Taekwondo programmes, and the creation of inclusive training modules that welcomed participants regardless of socioeconomic background. These propagation efforts resulted in a remarkable surge in Taekwondo participation rates across Belagavi District, establishing it as a model for other districts throughout Karnataka.
The modernisation achievements under his CEO leadership extended to administrative reforms that streamlined competition organisation, enhanced transparency in athlete selection processes, and established robust governance structures that continue to serve as benchmarks for district-level sports administration. His propagation strategies as CEO included the development of comprehensive marketing campaigns that elevated Taekwondo’s profile within local communities, resulting in increased sponsorship opportunities and enhanced governmental support for the sport’s development.
His officiating credentials are equally impressive, having progressed from Class ‘P’ National Referee certification in 2015 to National Referee Class ‘II’ in 2018, certified by the Taekwondo Federation of India. His extensive experience encompasses roles ranging from Technical Official to Chief Referee across numerous district, state, and national championships, including prestigious events such as the CBSE South Zone Championships and DASARA GAMES CM Cup competitions. These officiating achievements were significantly enhanced during his CEO tenure, where he leveraged his technical expertise to modernise competition standards across Belagavi District.
His remarkable officiating portfolio includes serving as Head of Operations (Technical) for the 41st and 42nd State Taekwondo Championships in 2024 and 2025, overseeing all technical aspects across multiple categories at Koramangala Indoor Stadium. His role as Tournament Director in the CBSE South Zone II Championship at Kalpavruksha Model School, Bailhongal, further exemplifies his commitment to youth development through sport.
Coaching Excellence and Team Leadership
Taekwondo Master Rao’s coaching prowess has been demonstrated through his leadership of district teams across multiple state-level competitions. His comprehensive approach to team preparation, encompassing technical guidance, strategic planning, and athlete welfare, has consistently elevated performance standards for Karnataka’s representatives.
His coaching philosophy extends beyond technical instruction to encompass holistic athlete development, emphasising mental resilience, tactical awareness, and ethical conduct. This methodology has been instrumental in nurturing numerous successful athletes whilst maintaining the highest standards of sportsmanship and technical excellence.
Humanitarian Endeavours and Sports Administration Leadership
Taekwondo Master Rao’s commitment extends beyond sports excellence to humanitarian service, culminating in his recognition with the INTERNATIONAL ICON AWARD 2025 in Sports Administration and Social Service categories. This prestigious recognition specifically acknowledges his expertise as a sports administration professional and his transformative impact on sports governance structures across Karnataka and India.
His role as Founding Trustee and Chairman of Yakshit Yuva Foundation reflects his sophisticated understanding of sports administration principles applied to societal betterment through sports and community development initiatives. As a sports administration expert, he has successfully integrated governance frameworks, strategic planning, and community outreach programmes that serve as models for effective sports administration practices.
The foundation’s work, particularly the “Kick & Shout” Self Defence Workshop programme for government school girls, women-centric NGOs, and university students, exemplifies his commitment to empowerment through martial arts education. These initiatives have had a transformative impact on community safety and women’s empowerment across Karnataka.
His collaborative efforts with educational institutions, including the successful inclusion of Taekwondo as an Olympic discipline within the Sports Curriculum of Rani Channamma University, Belagavi, demonstrate his vision for integrating martial arts into mainstream educational frameworks.
International Acclaim and Hall of Fame Recognition
Taekwondo Master Rao’s global recognition reached its zenith with his induction into the Hall of Fame as Best Coach in Taekwondo by the World Sports Martial Arts Council, USA, in May 2022. This prestigious recognition, accompanied by the World Sports Star Award, acknowledged his excellence in coaching, dedication to athlete development, and profound impact on the sport’s global landscape.
His subsequent induction into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame India as Master in Taekwondo in August 2022, presented by Dr. Grandmaster Jimmy R. Jagtiani, celebrated his outstanding achievements and dedication to Olympic Taekwondo promotion throughout India.
The commendation by the Hon’ble Minister of Water Resources, Government of Karnataka, in 2020 for his contributions to Taekwondo further underscored his significant impact on the sport’s development within the state.
Educational Integration and University Collaboration
Taekwondo Master Rao’s vision for Taekwondo development extends into the academic sphere through his active collaboration with higher education institutions. His contribution as Competition Director and Member of The Selection Committee for the Rani Channamma University Belgaum Inter Collegiate Single Zone Taekwondo Tournament 2024 exemplifies his commitment to university-level sport development.
His efforts in promoting Taekwondo within educational frameworks have created sustainable pathways for young athletes whilst ensuring the sport’s integration into Karnataka’s academic sporting culture.
Future Aspirations and Continuing Legacy
As Taekwondo Master Rao continues his doctoral studies whilst maintaining his multifaceted roles in coaching, administration, and social service, his influence on Karnataka’s Taekwondo landscape continues to expand. His pioneering achievement as Karnataka’s first International Taekwondo Coach Level I has opened pathways for future generations of coaches and athletes, establishing a legacy of excellence that will endure for decades to come.
The trajectory of Taekwondo Master Shreepada R. Rao’s career serves as an exemplar of how individual excellence, when coupled with unwavering dedication to community development and technical mastery, can transform not merely personal fortunes but entire sporting ecosystems. His contributions to Taekwondo coaching, sports administration, and social service represent a paradigm of holistic development that transcends conventional boundaries of sporting achievement. His revolutionary work as CEO in modernising Belagavi District’s Taekwondo infrastructure stands as a testament to his capabilities as both a sports administration expert and an able propagator of sporting excellence.
In the grand tapestry of Indian sports administration, Taekwondo Master Rao’s story stands as a testament to the transformative power of dedicated coaching, the importance of international recognition, and the profound impact that visionary leaders can have on their communities and beyond. His journey from a young martial arts enthusiast to Karnataka’s pioneering International Taekwondo Coach exemplifies the very essence of sporting excellence and humanitarian service that defines true champions of sport development.
Taekwondo Master Shreepada R. Rao continues to inspire future generations through his work with Yakshit Yuva Foundation, whilst pursuing his doctoral studies and maintaining his commitment to Taekwondo excellence at the highest international levels.
