Dr. Vece Paes, the esteemed Indian hockey midfielder, passed away on August 14 in Kolkata at the age of 80. He earned a bronze medal with the Indian team at the 1972 Munich Olympics and also secured a bronze at the 1971 Hockey World Cup in Barcelona. Born on April 30, 1945, in Goa, Paes showcased his talent both in sports and academics, later earning medical degrees in surgery and sports medicine
After retiring from hockey in 1972, Paes became a leading sports physician. He served as the Indian Davis Cup team’s doctor for a decade and consulted for the Asian Cricket Council and the BCCI on anti-doping and fitness programs. He also helped athletes in cricket, tennis, football, and rugby. Paes held leadership roles including president of the Indian Rugby Football Union (1996–2002) and the Calcutta Cricket & Football Club
Teammates and athletes remember him fondly. Ajit Pal Singh, a fellow Olympian, recalled, “He was so dedicated to sports medicine, he helped a number of Indian athletes”. Viren Rasquinha, India’s hockey captain at the 2004 Olympics, called him “an incredible human being, so knowledgeable, warm, humble and I will forever miss you Doc”
Vece Paes was also the father and long-time coach and manager of tennis legend Leander Paes. That remarkable father-son duo became the first in Indian sporting history to both win Olympic medals. Leander credits his father for inspiring his Olympic and Grand Slam success.
Also Read Palestine Joins Miss Universe for the First Time, Nadeen Ayoub Leads the Way
Dr. Vece Paes battled Parkinson’s disease and age-related illnesses before his death in Kolkata. His last rites will be held once his daughters return from abroad. Hockey India called him “a true sports icon” and mourned “a sad end to a golden era of hockey” Hockey India. His legacy lives on through Indian hockey, sports medicine, rugby, cricket, and especially in the lives of athletes he guided.
He leaves behind his wife, Jennifer Paes, a former India basketball captain and his son Leander, and two daughters.
Share
Palestine Joins Miss Universe for the First Time, Nadeen Ayoub Leads the Way
From Tollywood to Bollywood: Karan Johar Brings 'Mirai' to Hindi Audiences
