Ślęzak, described as a "distinguished activist of the Paralympic movement", passed away after battling a long and serious illness.

He was well known for training Katarzyna Rogowiec, who won two gold medals in cross-country skiing at the Turin 2006 Winter Paralympics.

She triumphed in the five kilometre and 15km standing events and also claimed 15km freestyle silver at Vancouver 2010.

Rogowiec's golds remain as the last two titles Poland has claimed at the Winter Paralympics.

Ślęzak was the President of the Start Nowy Sącz club and a "tutor" for generations of athletes.

"He is remembered by athletes as a devoted coach, trying to include as many people with various disabilities as possible in the world of sport, fighting for every potential competitor and convincing him to engage in activity," the PKP said.

"He dealt with everything - from organisational matters and training to cheering players.

"We will miss him very much. 

"We express our sympathy to the family, relatives and friends of the deceased."