Darek Fliegert has passed away

NEWS Sunday 23rd August 2026, 5:31pm

by Mike Hunter

  Edinburgh Monarchs

Some very sad news has reached us from Poland. Monarchs' first Polish rider Darek Fliegert has passed away at the very young age of 57.

Darek came over in 1992 to ride for us, having been with Rybnik in Poland. He made many friends in Edinburgh even though his English wasn't very good, and he didn't stick in when we sent him to an English language class. He came initially with an interpreter.

His girlfriend (later wife) Ewa joined him in mid-season. He was a lovely, gentle person, and Darek and Eva earned great praise for their brilliant ability to dance in rock 'n' roll style.

In our colours he scored 169 points and 36 bonus in 44 matches. He was on the winning side twice at Shawfield and had a highest score of 9+3, home to Glasgow. He wanted to return for 1993 but his average had slipped below 5, which at that time was the mark for securing a return.

On a personal note, Darek and Ewa lodged with me and were marvellous company. He used to make a dish of meat and potatoes which was delicious, I ate it many times. A few years ago he talked of coming over for a visit but sadly it didn't happen. I always thought we'd meet again.