The European Table Tennis Union joins ParalympicsGB and the entire table tennis community in mourning the passing of Gorazd VECKO, British Para Table Tennis Performance Director, who has died at the age of 53.
Gorazd VECKO made an immeasurable impact on Para table tennis and the wider European table tennis family. Over nearly two decades, he played a leading role in transforming British Para sport and inspiring countless athletes and coaches with his vision, dedication, and passion for the game.
Before joining British Para Table Tennis in 2009, Gorazd had already made history by coaching Mateja PINTAR to Slovenia’s first Paralympic gold medal in table tennis at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games. His success continued in Great Britain, where he led the team through four Paralympic Games. Under his leadership, the squad achieved outstanding results – winning four medals at London 2012, three at Rio 2016 (including golds for Will BAYLEY and Rob DAVIES), seven at Tokyo 2020, and five more at Paris 2024.
VECKO built much more than a medal-winning program; he established a family culture at the Sheffield high-performance base, fostering an environment of mutual respect, teamwork, and emotional support. This legacy continues to define the British Para table tennis setup today.
Beyond his national role, Gorazd VECKO was a respected figure in European and global table tennis. He contributed to the sport’s development through his work with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and served as Vice-President of Table Tennis England. Within the ETTU community, he was known for his active engagement in Para programs and once led an ETTU Para Development Camp, where his experience and enthusiasm greatly inspired young coaches and athletes across Europe.
In recognition of his exceptional service to British Para Table Tennis, Gorazd was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by His Majesty King Charles III in 2023.
The ETTU extends its deepest condolences to Gorazd’s family, friends, colleagues, and the players whose lives he profoundly shaped.
