In a country where sports often struggle to reach rural corners, Master Shreepada R. Rao has emerged as a force of change, bridging the gap between grassroots potential and international recognition. Through his unwavering dedication to Taekwondo and education, he has built not just athletes—but leaders, citizens, and dreamers.
A Journey Forged in Martial Arts
From his early days in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada, where he began training in Shito Ryu and Shotokan Karate, to finding his true path in Taekwondo under Master Subhash Yadav, Rao’s life has been grounded in discipline, resilience, and continuous self-improvement.
His transition into Taekwondo marked the start of a lifelong mission: to use martial arts as a vehicle for transformation—physical, mental, and social.
Scholar, Strategist, Sportsman
Master Rao is not just a practitioner but a scholar. His academic achievements—a Master’s in Physical Education, a PG Diploma in Sports Coaching, and a current PhD pursuit in Sports Administration—speak to his belief in intellectual leadership in sports.
As Karnataka’s first World Taekwondo Level II Certified International Coach, trained under the tutelage of global mentors in South Korea, Rao represents the perfect fusion of Indian grit and global standards.
Reforming Systems, Not Just Students
From 2018 to 2022, as CEO of the Belagavi District Taekwondo Association, Rao initiated bold reforms in governance, transparency, and rural outreach. He created platforms for athletes who had previously been sidelined due to geography or financial barriers.
Through his Yuva Academy, he established a rural hub for excellence that trains hundreds of youth—many from disadvantaged backgrounds. His programs instill confidence, discipline, and the skills needed to compete nationally and internationally.
Championing Women and Social Justice
With a sharp focus on safety and gender equality, Master Rao founded the Yakshit Yuva Foundation. The “Kick & Shout” campaign is a powerful initiative that equips women and girls with practical self-defence skills and awareness, empowering over 2,000 individuals so far.
His advocacy isn’t limited to classrooms or dojos—it reaches schools, NGOs, universities, and government bodies across Karnataka.
Recognition That Reflects Impact
Rao’s contributions have earned him national and international acclaim: from his induction into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame India in 2022 to receiving the India Book of Records and the Hall of Fame from the World Sports Martial Arts Council (USA).
But his most powerful recognition comes in the form of the lives he’s transformed, the schools he’s influenced, and the rural communities he’s uplifted.
Legacy in the Making
As a National Referee, tournament director, educator, and policy influencer, Master Shreepada R. Rao is shaping a legacy that transcends medals or belts. He is nurturing a generation that respects discipline, values equality, and holds their nation’s pride close to heart.
In every way, he embodies what it means to be a true master—not just of Taekwondo, but of vision, values, and nation-building.
