On November 20, 2018, the world of boxing mourned the loss of Andrzej Gmitruk, a towering figure in Polish sports and one of its most successful boxing trainers and promoters. Born in Warsaw on July 14, 1951, Gmitruk began his illustrious career in 1975 as a junior national team coach and soon transformed Polish boxing. Under his guidance, Legia Warsaw’s boxing team claimed five Polish championships, and his protégés, including Kazimierz Szczerba and Krzysztof Kosedowski, earned Olympic medals in 1980.
A Legacy of Excellence: Gmitruk’s Coaching Success on the International Stage
His achievements garnered him the Coach of the Year title twice, and by 1983, he was leading Poland’s national team. At the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Gmitruk’s expertise resulted in four bronze medals, elevating the careers of fighters like Andrzej Gołota. His success extended to Norway during a decade-long stint (1988–1998) as a national coach and consultant, further enhancing his reputation across Europe.
Gmitruk’s Lasting Legacy: From Champion Trainer to Cherished Commentator
In the professional arena, Gmitruk’s impact was equally remarkable. From 1998, he managed and trained leading Polish boxers, including Tomasz Adamek and Artur Szpilka, while establishing the O’chikara Gmitruk Team. Beyond training, he became a cherished boxing commentator, offering fans his sharp analysis and passion for the sport through Polsat Sport and TVP.
Gmitruk’s life ended tragically at 67 in a fire at his home, sparked by a commemorative candle for his late son. His passing left an irreplaceable void, but his legacy endures in the fighters he mentored and the spirit of Polish boxing he helped define. Honoured posthumously with the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta, Andrzej Gmitruk remains a symbol of dedication and excellence in Polish sport.