by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

Zoltan Bubonyi very much followed in the footsteps of Ferenc Soos and Jozsef Koczian, representing Hungary on 18 occasions between 1957 and 1960; he played in an era when the debate on the subject of sponge rubber was very much at its height.

Notably, he was a member of the Hungarian team when the career of Ferenc Sido was in its twilight years and conversely Zoltan Berczik was making his presence felt, not only on the European scene but also on the world stage. Celebrated names and there were others of noteworthy stature with whom he played in the Hungarian national team, Elemer Gyetvai and Laszlo Foldy are names that come to mind.

Alongside celebrated players, Zoltan Bubonyi was a member of the Hungary outfit that won the Men’s Team event at the 1958 and 1960 European Championships, as well as being runners up at the 1959 World Championships. Furthermore, at the 1960 European Championships, he was the Mixed Doubles bronze medallist in partnership with Sarolte Mathe.

Meanwhile, Peter Temes was a professional coach, most notably the coach at Postas Budapest, one of Hungary’s most renowned clubs.

Additionally, he served as a coach of the Hungarian National Team, whilst also being a member of the Hungarian Coaches Committee; at his funeral he was remembered by Karoly Nemeth, arguably his most celebrated player. Karoly Nemeth was crowned Hungarian Men’s Singles champion on no less than 17 occasions and represented Hungary 171 times.

Both are sadly missed.