Władysław Gędłek

Who was Władysław Gędłek?

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

His first team was Krowodrza Kraków, where Gedlek's career started in 1935. During World War II, participated in secret games in Kraków, 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 defence, active in offence, often initiated dangerous attacks on opponents. In late 1940-s Poland Gedlek had the status of a celebrity, and his immense talent 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, also played in both Poland's games of the 1952 Summer Olympics.