January 25

Born in 1906, Ulmen began his career as a motorcycle racer before switching to car racing in the early 1930s. He won numerous Grand Prix events and claimed the German sports car championship multiple times. After World War II, Ulmen resumed competition, securing victories in events such as Avus and the Mille Miglia. Known for his technical skill and fearless driving style, he raced for teams including Auto Union and Veritas. Ulmen also worked as an engineer, contributing to the development of racing cars. His legacy in German motorsports is remembered both for his competitive spirit and his role in rebuilding racing culture after the war. He retired in the late 1950s and passed away in 1976.

Leslie "Pop" Ivy was born in 1916 and made his mark as both a standout collegiate athlete and a professional football coach. As a player at the University of Arkansas, he earned All-American honors before a brief NFL career. Ivy then transitioned into coaching, leading programs at the University of Tulsa and in the NFL with the Chicago Cardinals and Dallas Texans. He later coached in the Canadian Football League, pioneering offensive innovations. Ivy's strategic mind influenced modern football before his death in 2003.

Josef Holeček was a pioneering Czechoslovak canoeist active in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He specialized in sprint canoeing, competing in both single (C-1) and double (C-2) events at major international meets. Holeček represented Czechoslovakia at the Summer Olympic Games, showcasing endurance and technical skill on the world stage. Beyond the Olympics, he took part in European championships, earning respect for his disciplined training and competitive spirit. After retiring from competition, he mentored younger athletes and contributed to the development of canoeing in his home country.

Lou Groza was an iconic American football player whose career with the Cleveland Browns spanned from 1946 to 1967. Known as "The Toe," he revolutionized placekicking with his powerful, accurate kicks and also excelled as an offensive tackle, helping the Browns win six championships. Selected for multiple Pro Bowls, Groza established many kicking records that stood for decades. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and ambassador for the sport, promoting football at all levels. His jersey number was retired by the Browns, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1974.

Husein Mehmedov was a distinguished wrestler born in Bulgaria who later built a successful coaching career in Turkey. As an athlete, he represented Bulgaria in Greco-Roman wrestling during the mid-20th century, earning recognition for his strength and technique. After retiring from competition, Mehmedov moved to Turkey, where he trained and mentored wrestlers at the national level. His methods contributed to Turkey's prominence in international wrestling competitions, and he remained involved in the sport until his death in 2014.

Born in 1925, Gordy Soltau starred at Stanford University before a nine-year career as a wide receiver with the San Francisco 49ers. He emerged as one of the team's top pass-catchers, earning multiple Pro Bowl honors and setting early franchise records. Following his retirement in 1956, he became a pioneering sportscaster, offering play-by-play commentary for NFL broadcasts. His engaging style and firsthand knowledge of the game endeared him to audiences across the region. He remained active in the football community as a mentor and alumni ambassador for the 49ers. In 2014, he was celebrated by the team for his lasting impact on the franchise's history.

Born in 1926 in New York City, Dick McGuire was a standout guard at St. John's University before joining the NBA's New York Knicks in 1949. Known for his exceptional court vision and passing ability, he led the league in assists multiple times and earned five All-Star selections. After retiring as a player in 1957, he transitioned into coaching, serving as head coach for the Detroit Pistons and Milwaukee Bucks. He became one of the few individuals to reach the NBA Finals both as a player and as a coach. In 1993, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the game. His influence persists through the generations of guards who emulate his style of playmaking.

Born in 1928 in Amsterdam, Cornelis 'Cor' van der Hart began his career with Ajax, winning multiple Dutch championships. He earned 36 caps for the Netherlands national team, captaining the squad at the 1948 Summer Olympics. After stints as a player-manager in France and the Netherlands, he transitioned to full-time coaching. Van der Hart managed Feyenoord, PSV Eindhoven, and the Dutch national team from 1966 to 1970, laying groundwork for future success. He was known for his tactical insight and ability to develop young talent. His contributions to Dutch football earned him recognition as one of the country's most respected figures in the sport. He passed away in 2006, remembered for his leadership on and off the field.

Born in Crosbyton, Texas in 1935, Don Maynard began his professional football career in the Canadian Football League before starring in the AFL and NFL. He joined the New York Jets in 1960 and formed a prolific passing duo with Joe Namath, helping the team win Super Bowl III. Maynard led the AFL in receiving yards multiple times and retired with 633 receptions, 11,834 yards, and 88 touchdowns. His graceful route-running and deep-threat ability made him one of the most feared receivers of his era. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987 and remains a Jets legend. Off the field, he dedicated time to youth sports and community outreach programs.

Buddy Baker enjoyed a successful racing career from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, competing in NASCAR's premier series. In 1980, he won the prestigious Daytona 500 and became the first driver to exceed 200 mph during qualifying. Nicknamed "Gentle Giant" for his stature and demeanor, he claimed 19 Cup Series victories. After retiring behind the wheel, Baker transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a beloved commentator for ESPN's NASCAR coverage. His deep knowledge of the sport and engaging personality helped bring stock car racing to a wider audience. He passed away in 2015, leaving a legacy of speed and sportsmanship.

Carl Eller was a dominant defensive end who helped define the Minnesota Vikings' defensive line in the late 1960s and 1970s. Born in 1942, he was selected in the first round of the 1964 NFL Draft and earned six Pro Bowl selections. As part of the famed 'Purple People Eaters', he played in four Super Bowls. Eller's strength, speed, and technique made him one of the most feared pass rushers of his era. After retiring, he pursued a career in broadcasting, serving as a commentator for college football. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Eller's legacy endures through his impact on the game and the Minnesota community.

Eusébio da Silva Ferreira rose from Mozambique to become one of football's greatest forwards. After joining Benfica in 1961, he scored over 600 goals in all competitions and helped the team clinch the European Cup in 1962. Awarded the 1965 Ballon d'Or, his explosive pace and powerful shot terrorized defenses. Eusébio starred for the Portugal national team at the 1966 World Cup, finishing as the tournament's top scorer and leading Portugal to third place. Revered for his sportsmanship and skill, he inspired generations of players. He received numerous honors before his passing in 2014. Eusébio remains a symbol of excellence in world football.