Mr. Jake Richter is a prominent international promoter, coach, and administrator of Pencak Silat in the United States and across the Americas. With over 30 years of experience in martial arts, he has played a pioneering role in introducing, developing, and expanding Pencak Silat beyond its traditional regions.
His journey began as a junior ski athlete, where he achieved success as a national gold medalist. His transition into martial arts eventually led him to Pencak Silat, which he recognized as both an effective system for personal protection and a competitive sport. He further developed his expertise through training at Padepokan institutions in Indonesia and Malaysia.
Over the past three decades, Mr. Richter has been instrumental in building the foundation of Pencak Silat in the United States. He established training centers, organized regional and national competitions, and actively promoted the sport across multiple countries. His efforts have significantly contributed to the international expansion of Pencak Silat, particularly throughout the Americas.
He has also sponsored and led athletes to international competitions, authored publications on Pencak Silat, and continues to advocate for the sport’s growth through structured programs and global engagement initiatives.
Leadership & Organizational Roles
President – Pencak Silat Federation of the Americas (PSFA)
President – United States Sport Silat Association (USSSA)
President – United Teachers Association for Martial Arts (UTAMA International)
President – Pencak Silat USA (PPS Inti Ombak – Global School Network)
Program Director – Pencak Silat Engagement Programs (PSEP)
Athlete & Coaching Experience
- Certified International Referee & Jury (2018, Jakarta)
- Certified National Level 1 Coach – IPSF PERSILAT
- US Center for SafeSport Certified (including working with athletes with disabilities)
- Mahkota Cula Pelangi – Honorary Recognition (Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia)
- Trah Mangun Hardjono – Knight Recognition (IOPS)
- Presidential Volunteer Service Award (USA) – 10,000+ hours
- Honorary Representative of Pencak Silat as Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Americas
Major Contributions & Achievements
- Organizer of the first sanctioned USA National Pencak Silat Tournament (2019)
- Led USA Team to World Pencak Silat Open Festival (2019) – 2 Gold Medals
- Led USA Team to Belgium Open (2019) – 2 Bronze Medals
- Organized the first international Pencak Silat event in the USA with participation from 27 countries
- Achieved 2nd Place Overall Team Ranking at an international event with full medal placements
- Sponsored and supported athletes for international competitions
- Established multiple training centers and global school networks
Publications & Programs
Author: T5 Warrior Herbal Remedies: Family Traditions of Pencak Silat (ISBN-13: 979-8376077412)
Developer:
Pencak Silat Engagement Programs (PSEP) – Global fitness and training initiative
Development Impact
- 30+ years contribution to Pencak Silat
- Expansion of Pencak Silat across the United States and the Americas
- Development of structured competition systems in the USA
- Training and mentorship of athletes, coaches, and officials internationally
Additional Information
- Active promoter of Pencak Silat as a global sport and cultural heritage
- Organizer of international collaborations and exchange programs
- Contributor to grassroots and elite-level sport development initiatives
