Władysław Gędłek

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Polish soccer player, right defender, represented both Cracovia Krakow and Polish National Team. Born June 15, 1920 in Krakow, died by suicide Feb. 28, 1954, also in Krakow.

His first team was Krowodrza Krakow, where Gedlek’s career started in 1935. During World War II, participated in secret games in Krakow, as the Germans occupiers banned Poles from playing all sports. In 1945 he moved to Cracovia, where played until 1953, winning Championships of Poland in 1948.

Regarded as a very talented and skilled player. Tough in defense, active in offense, often initiated dangerous attacks on opponents. In late 1940-s Poland Gedlek had the status of a celebrity, and his immense talend was appreciated not only in his native country. As the first Pole ever he was called to the FIFA’s official “World Team’’, to a friendly game in 1953. Represented Poland in 20 games (1949-1953), also played in Poland’s both games of the 1952 Summer Olympics.