On September 11, 2026, we received the news of Dr Jerzy Szmyt’s passing with deep sadness. He was a long-standing and highly respected member of staff at Poznań University of Physical Education, a distinguished swimming coach for people with disabilities, and one of the most important figures in the history of Polish Paralympic sports. His death is an irreplaceable loss for our academic community and the entire sports community.
A life devoted to a passion for sports
Born in 1933, Dr Jerzy Szmyt was inextricably linked to our University and the ‘Start’ sports association for several decades. His immense commitment, visionary approach and determination as a coach working with people with disabilities played a pivotal role in developing and establishing Paralympic sports in Poland.
He was one of the true pioneers. As national team coach, he prepared the Polish team for the Paralympic Games in Heidelberg, Toronto and Arnhem, among other places. His athletes won dozens of medals and broke world records at these Games. His most notable protégés included Mirosław Owczarek, Ryszard Kożuch and Grażyna Białecka.
One of the most spectacular successes of Dr Szmyt’s career came in 1994, when the first Polish relay team composed of people with disabilities successfully swam across the English Channel under his leadership. He has received numerous national awards in recognition of his outstanding achievements.
In recognition of his contribution to shaping the city’s sporting identity, Dr. Jerzy Szmyt was honoured with the prestigious title of Poznań Sports “Supersenior” in 2025. As Rector Prof. Jacek Zieliński emphasised at the time, the successes and highest honours achieved by successive generations of athletes on the international stage are the result of Dr Szmyt’s hard work.
We are immensely proud that such an outstanding figure has helped shape the history and reputation of our university over the years. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, former students, and everyone affected by the passing of Dr. Jerzy Szmyt.