In his attitude toward the game and his relationship with his teammates, Sredoje Baračkov – Gadža was very similar to Aca Beljuc. He was a self-sacrificing and persistent player. Perhaps, because of his youth, he was somewhat more ambitious than Lala, and for that reason he would become upset when a move did not go as planned and caused one of his teammates to be put in a position where he had to „pull the chestnuts out of the fire“. He was tireless, modest and an honest player.
Gadža was distinguished not only by his hard work and persistence on the field. He also possessed solid football skills, which earned him a regular place in Zvezda's half-back line, even at times when the team was filled with some of the best players from Kikinda and Pančevo.
His loyalty to the club is best illustrated by an extraordinary event. In 1945, he travelled by bicycle from Novi Bečej to Senta, covering more than 50 kilometres, simply to arrive in time for the match. The team had left the previous day with only nine players. Gadža arrived just as the teams were coming onto the field and the match was about to begin. At that very moment, Bora Kovačev also arrived by bicycle. Both immediately put on their football kits and joined the game. They went on to be among the best players of the Novi Bečej team that day.
As a person, Sredoje was hardworking and modest. As a typesetter in a printing house, he was highly regarded by his colleagues and fellow workers. In his private life, he was a great entertainer. He played the accordion, was popular in company and was always welcome among friends.
He began his football career in the youth club Banat in Novi Bečej. After Banat was disbanded in 1936, he joined Zvezda, where he remained until the end of his football career in 1947.
Although he was sensitive by nature and could sometimes be quick-tempered, Sredoje's good-natured character made him an exceptionally fair and sportsmanlike player on the field as well. If he ever made a mistake in a challenge against an opposing player, he always had the strength of character to admit his mistake, sincerely apologize to his opponent and explain the circumstances that had led to it.
Gadža was a great friend and an tireless entertainer, but above all, he was an exceptionally honest man. Because of these qualities, he was loved by the people of Novi Bečej and remained in their fondest memories.
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