H. Р. А. С. Thilakarathne
The Ceylon Boxing Federation pays heartfelt tribute to H. P. A. C. Thilakarathne, a dedicated coach, mentor, and sports professional whose contribution to school-level boxing and community sports development remains deeply valued. Born in 1982, Thilakarathne displayed a passion for sports from a young age, eventually dedicating his career to nurturing emerging talent within the local boxing community. His untimely passing in 2010 was a tremendous loss to the sporting fraternity.
Thilakarathne began his coaching journey at Kadugannawa National College, where he served as the school's Boxing Coach from 2003 to 2005. His commitment, discipline, and technical knowledge helped shape many young athletes, instilling in them the core values of respect, perseverance, and sportsmanship. In 2005, he joined Pilimathalawa Central College, continuing his mission to uplift school-level boxing. Until 2010, he worked tirelessly to strengthen the sport within the school, guiding students toward competitive excellence and ensuring that every athlete under his care received proper training and encouragement.
Beyond school boxing, Thilakarathne extended his expertise to the community as a Sports Officer at the Yatinuwara Divisional Secretariat. In this role, he contributed immensely to promoting physical education and sports development at the regional level. His initiatives helped broaden opportunities for youth engagement in structured sporting activities.
Though his life was brief, the impact H. P. A. C. Thilakarathne made on athletes, colleagues, and the broader sporting community continues to resonate. He is remembered for his humility, dedication, and the heartfelt commitment he brought to every role he undertook. The Ceylon Boxing Federation honors his service and acknowledges his lasting legacy in Sri Lankan boxing.