László Jeney

László Jeney began his sports career in the second half of the 1930s in the famous MAC water polo team, winning his first championship with the crew of the venerable club. The World War not only interrupted his career, but also disbanded the association. In his heyday he was one of the best goalkeepers in the world – thanks to his wonderful reflexes and calmness.

He began his Olympic participation in London in 1948. Due to István Mezei’s injury, he travelled to the English capital later and they ended up winning silver. He defended the goal of the Hungarian national team at the Helsinki and Melbourne Games, winning gold at each, before winning bronze at the 1960 Roma Games. During the European Championships he made his début in Monte Carlo (1947) but his fourth place was deemed a failure; however, they then finished first in Torino (1954) and Budapest (1958). Jeney was selected for the national team a total of sixty-five times.

After his retirement he ran a restaurant which was a favourite meeting place for athletes. He was a founding member of the Vasas team and a member of the department’s management until his death.