Indian Hockey Mourns: Dilip Tirkey on the Loss of Vece Paes

Updated on: Aug 14, 2025 11:22 am IST

Hockey India on Thursday mourned the loss of Dr Vece Paes, a charismatic midfielder from Indian Hockey’s golden era. He was part of the bronze medal-winning Indian team in the 1972 Munich Olympics.

As a steadfast figure in Indian sports, the 80-year-old Dr Paes leaves behind a legacy of achievement, inspiring countless athletes and sports enthusiasts.

“It is a sad day for us in Hockey India. The passing of Dr Paes marks the end of a great era of hockey. The Olympic medal in Munich is a testament to their grit and determination. I had the privilege of meeting him several times and was always inspired by his passion for sports overall. He was a strong advocate for fostering a sporting culture in the country. At Hockey India, we express our deepest condolences to his wife Jennifer, son Leander, and their entire family. We stand with them in their grief,” expressed Dr Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India.

Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also extended his condolences, stating, “On behalf of Hockey India, we extend our deepest condolences to Leander, his mother, and their family. Dr Paes’ contributions to sports and sports science will always be remembered, and his legacy will endure forever.”

Born in Goa in April 1945, Dr Paes excelled in both sports and academics. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, he was a doctor of sports medicine and served as president of the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club. His son, Leander Paes, often cited his father’s influence and inspiration in shaping his own sports career, particularly his passion for representing India at the Olympics.

In addition to hockey, he showcased his talents in cricket, football, and rugby. His love of rugby led him to become president of the Indian Rugby Football Union from 1996 to 2002.

News / Sports / Hockey / ‘Sad day for Indian hockey’: Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey on demise of Vece Paes