Vece Paes, the former Indian hockey player and father of tennis legend Leander Paes, passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a remarkable and multifaceted legacy in Indian sports. A bronze medalist at the 1972 Munich Olympics and part of the Indian squad that clinched bronze at the 1971 Hockey World Cup in Barcelona, Paes was celebrated not just for his prowess on the field, but for his wide-ranging contributions as a sportsman, mentor, and medical expert.
Paes played as a midfielder, displaying exceptional skill and leadership in a golden era of Indian hockey. His Olympic and World Cup triumphs placed him among the elite athletes of his generation. Yet, his sporting excellence was not limited to hockey—Paes also excelled in football, cricket, and rugby.
His passion for rugby saw him serve as the president of the Indian Rugby Football Union from 1996 to 2002, helping promote and organize the sport nationally. His multidisciplinary involvement set an inspiring example for athletes across India.
Paes was equally distinguished in the field of sports medicine. After retiring from professional play, he took up the role of medical consultant for the Asian Cricket Council, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the Indian Davis Cup team. His expertise and guidance contributed substantially to the wellbeing and performance of athletes in these organizations.
Vece Paes was married to Jennifer Paes, herself a former captain of the Indian national basketball team. The couple's commitment to sport and excellence was reflected most strongly in their son, Leander Paes, India’s most decorated tennis player, winner of 18 Grand Slam titles and an Olympic bronze medalist at the 1996 Atlanta Games—a remarkable continuation of the family's Olympic tradition.
Paes had been battling advanced Parkinson’s disease and was admitted to Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata earlier this week. His last rites are scheduled early next week, as the family awaits the arrival of his daughters from abroad.