Vale Jeff Drew

Jeff Drew, 64, one of Western Australia’s greatest ever players, sadly passed away yesterday after battling illness in recent times. 

Originally from England, Jeff came to Perth in 1980 and quickly established himself in the upper echelon of Western Australian table tennis. He represented the Western Australia Men’s Team over many years at the National Championships and played for Perth in the former National League. Nobody has won more Western Australian Men’s Singles state titles than Jeff. 

At Veterans level Jeff similarly excelled where he won at least 33 medals and was a four time National Champion (Over 50 Men’s Teams, Over 40 Men’s Doubles, Over 40 Men’s Teams, Over 60 Men’s Doubles). More often than not Jeff combined with any or all of Craig Campbell, Greg Letts, Russell Stein and Irwin Parker in what was always a formidable team.

Jeff loved the contest and was a fierce competitor. Combining heavy topspin play from both sides but with an especially strong backhand loop, Jeff made all his opponents earn it and he gave nothing away. In some ways Jeff was unassuming and a quiet achiever, but he got the best out of himself and was a highly respected member at all levels of the table tennis community.

Jeff will be sadly missed by all who knew him and the table tennis community expresses our deepest sympathy to his wife Ann and his family. 

Thank you for everything you contributed to our great game, rest in peace Jeff.