Roxburgh Park’s Sheddy Lebdeh a state taekwondo champion

Inspired by his four children under 10, Sheddy Lebdeh took up taekwondo, started eating healthy foods, trained hard and lost 15kg. Now, he’s the holder of a state taekwondo title and aiming even higher.

Sheddy Lebdeh with this state taekwondo gold medal.

Sheddy Lebdeh has been nominated in the Senior Sports Star category for the Leader Local Sports Stars awards.

Nominee: Sheddy Lebdeh, 44

Sport: Taekwondo

Suburb: Roxburgh Park

Club name: Olympic Martial Arts Centre

Coach/manager: Jemal Hasan

How old were you when you took up your sport?

I was 44.

How did you get involved in this sport?

I have four kids under the age of 10 who are all involved in taekwondo and watching them train and compete inspired me to get involved.

What has been your biggest success?

As a newcomer to the sport, I have trained very hard in preparation for the Victorian championship. As a result of winning that title, I have been selected to represent Victoria, together with my son, at the national championships on the Gold Coast.

What do you love most about your sport?

I thoroughly enjoy the physical aspect of training and competing. Seeing the excitement on my children’s faces when I am training on the mats with them and having them teach me different techniques is something I will always cherish.

Describe the toughest challenge you’ve faced in your sport:

Prior to taking up taekwondo, I was overweight, had high blood pressure and suffered as a result of not eating healthy. Since commencing taekwondo this year, I have lost 15kg and I am now less injury-prone, more healthy and fighting fit.

‘I couldn’t have done this without …’

The love and support of my beautiful wife Nas Lebdeh, who always keeps me grounded, and my four children, who are my endless inspiration and biggest critics.

Grand Master Jemal Hasan and all the coaching staff at Olympic Martial Arts Centre.

Thanks to our partner Gold 104.3.

Know someone with great sporting talent? Nominate them here.