Delhi Sepaktakraw Association (DSTA)

Architect of Modern Indian Sepaktakraw

Late Shri Yogender Singh Dahiya

Shri Yogender Singh Dahiya devoted his life to Sepaktakraw — as President of the Delhi Sepaktakraw Association and of the Sepaktakraw Federation of India, Deputy President of the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation, and Assistant Secretary General of the International Sepaktakraw Federation.

From the courts of Majnu-ka-Tila to Asian Games podiums and World Cup gold, he built more than a sport. He built systems, opportunities, careers and dreams for thousands of athletes across India.

DSTA carries that mission forward: grassroots courts, district units, women's competitions such as ASMITA, and a pathway from Delhi to the national camp.

The Airborne To Kick campaign continues in his memory.

Offices he held

Leadership Across the Sport

From Delhi to Asia and the world stage.

Assistant Secretary General

ISTAF

International Sepaktakraw Federation

Deputy President

ASTAF

Asian Sepaktakraw Federation

President

STFI

Sepaktakraw Federation of India

President

DSTA

Delhi Sepaktakraw Association

The journey

A Life Dedicated to Sepaktakraw

From the dream that began before 2004 to the golden era of 2025.

Before 2004

A Vision Takes Shape

Long before Indian Sepaktakraw became a medal-winning sport, he worked tirelessly to build pathways and opportunities. He believed in the potential of Indian athletes and the sport itself.
Early involvement in Sepaktakraw administration and grassroots development across Delhi.
Became a key figure in the Delhi Sepaktakraw Association (DSTA).
Built relationships across state associations, believing Sepaktakraw could become a nationally recognised sport that succeeds on the international stage.

2004

National Leadership Begins

Assumed major responsibilities in STFI and began a new era of federation development.
Became Secretary General of STFI and later President, leading national initiatives.
Began long-term federation restructuring focused on governance and national expansion.
Prioritised athlete development and international representation.

2005–2010

Building a National Movement

Expanded state participation and strengthened national federation structures — growth begins at the grassroots.
Strengthened state units and motivated members; today 25+ state associations are affiliated with STFI.
Expanded national competitions and increased athlete participation nationwide.
Focused on creating structured development pathways.

2010–2013

Reaching Every State and Athlete

Supported revival and development efforts across emerging state associations.
Helped revive dormant associations and establish new ones.
Supported creation of new training programmes and competition structures from Sub-Junior to Senior levels.
Continued building structured pathways for athletes across India.

2013–2017

Building India's Medal Mission

National camps, talent identification and a core probables programme prepared India for the Asian Games.
International exposure, athlete pathways and overseas training sessions.
Hosted the prestigious Sepaktakraw World Super Series 2013 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, New Delhi — the first time the tournament was held outside South East Asia.
Long-term national camps aimed at winning a medal at the Asian Games.

2018

India's First Asian Games Medal

India secured a historic men's regu bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta — the nation's first Asian Games medal in Sepaktakraw.
This achievement marked a significant milestone, showcasing India's potential on the continental stage.
The medal sparked increased interest and investment in the sport across India and inspired a new generation of athletes.
It elevated India's status in the international Sepaktakraw community and opened more opportunities for competition and collaboration.

2019–2021

India's Global Voice

Elected Assistant Secretary General of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF).
Elected Deputy President of the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) — giving India a powerful voice in Asian governance.
India's influence in international Sepaktakraw governance grew, allowing greater input in global decisions and policies.
India hosted international tournaments and participated in global competitions, solidifying its position as a key player.

2020

Athlete Welfare Revolution

Created opportunities beyond medals through recognition and career pathways.
Through sustained advocacy, Sepaktakraw was recognised by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT).
National-level players became eligible for Central Government jobs under the sports quota, securing long-term careers.
This recognition helped athletes pursue Sepaktakraw professionally with greater career stability and support.

2022–2023

Rise of Women's Sepaktakraw

Expanded participation and strengthened women's programmes.
Stronger national programmes and increased competitive success.
Continued expansion of national championships, youth programmes and women's participation.
Focused on talent identification and development for women's teams, raising competitiveness.

2023

Women's Historic Asian Games Medal

India won a historic bronze medal in the women's regu event at the Asian Games 2023.
This marked India's first-ever medal in women's Sepaktakraw at the Asian Games and the nation's second overall in the sport.
It highlighted the growth of women's Sepaktakraw and the success of programmes built over years.
The medal inspired greater interest and participation in women's Sepaktakraw across the country.

2025

The Golden Era

India's first-ever World Cup gold medal in Sepaktakraw.
Victory at the 2025 ISTAF World Cup solidified India as a global force in the sport.
The win culminated years of development, training and international competition.
It brought pride to the nation and inspired a new generation of athletes worldwide.

November 2025

A Tragic Loss

The Sepaktakraw community mourned the loss of Shri Yogender Singh Dahiya, a visionary leader and architect of modern Indian Sepaktakraw.
His passing marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of growth, achievement and inspiration.
The impact of his leadership and vision continues to shape the sport in India and internationally.
His contributions to Sepaktakraw will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

Historic Medal Era

Proof of the Vision

Asian Games 2018

Men's Regu — First Ever Medal

Asian Games 2023

Women's Regu — Historic Bronze

World Cup 2025

Historic Gold Era