Oğuz Taşderen’s extraordinary journey in his sports career is truly inspiring. Born on March 26, 1989, in Hatay, Oğuz moved to Istanbul at the age of 6. He began his sports career at the age of 10 by playing soccer, participating in various amateur competitions in Istanbul. Winning admission to the Department of Art History at Hacettepe University at 17, he moved to Ankara, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. That same year, he started his dance career in the Competitive Latin and Ballroom Dance class at Hacettepe University Sports Club. In March 2008, he achieved his first major success by winning first place at his first competition held at Suleyman Demirel University in Isparta.
In 2009-2010, Oğuz received ballet and modern dance training from Ankara State Opera and Ballet artist Özden Aktürk, further honing his dance skills. In April 2009, he participated in the Turkish Dance Championship and progressed from E Class to A Class. By October 2010, he became a finalist in A Class with his partner İpek Besun. In March 2011, he became the A Class Champion at the Turkish National Championship, and in 2011, he ranked 1st and 2nd in the overall standings of Latin Dance Sports at the Turkish National Championship. March 2013 saw him invited to the National Team Camp as a National Athlete, marking a significant milestone in his career.
In May 2015, with his new partner Beliz Samlı, Oğuz once again became the A Class Champion and earned the title of National Latin Dance Athlete. Oğuz contributed to the dance community not only as a competitor but also as a judge at the Nesibe Aydın Cup in Ankara in January 2017 and the Bodrum National Dance Competitions in May 2017. He continued his judging role at the İzmir Dance Atelier Cup in April 2019, solidifying his respected position in the dance world.
In October 2019, Oğuz moved to Greece and participated in the Greece National Championship in February 2020, securing 5th place. Even during the pandemic, he remained dedicated and continued competing, as well as teaching dance at prestigious schools in Turkey. On July 26, 2024, he joined Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Jersey Village, embarking on a new chapter in his career.
Oğuz Taşderen’s story showcases the importance of determination, perseverance, and passion in a dance and sports career. His journey serves as a source of inspiration, demonstrating the profound impact that dedication and love for one’s art can have on both personal achievements and the lives of others.
