January 27

Art Rooney was a pioneering figure in professional American football. He founded the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1933 and served as its owner and general manager for over 50 years. Under his leadership, the team became one of the NFL's most storied franchises. He was also a former college football player and coach before entering ownership. Rooney was respected for his dedication to the sport and his community impact in Pittsburgh. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame posthumously.

Boris Shakhlin was a Russian-Ukrainian artistic gymnast who competed for the Soviet Union in three Olympic Games (1956, 1960, 1964). He accumulated a total of 13 Olympic medals, including seven golds, becoming one of gymnastics' all-time medal leaders. Shakhlin excelled across multiple apparatus, particularly vault and rings, and was known for his consistency and technical mastery. He also achieved success at World and European Championships, securing numerous titles and podium finishes. Beyond competition, he contributed to gymnastics as a coach and judge, influencing generations of athletes. His legacy endures as one of the sport's most decorated and versatile champions.

George Follmer is an American racing driver who competed in various series including USAC, Can-Am, Trans-Am, and Formula One. He began his career in the mid-1960s, earning recognition for his consistency and speed across multiple disciplines. Follmer claimed the 1972 Can-Am championship and achieved podium finishes in other sports car events. He also took part in Formula One Grand Prix races and the Indianapolis 500, demonstrating his versatility. Known for his technical skill and determination, Follmer was respected by peers and fans alike. After retiring from full-time competition, he remained involved in motorsports through coaching and vintage racing.

Steve Demeter was an American baseball third baseman who appeared in the Major Leagues during the late 1950s. He played in games for the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox, earning recognition for his hitting and defense. Following his playing career, Demeter transitioned to coaching at both collegiate and professional levels. He served as a minor league manager, guiding young players through the farm system to develop their skills. Known for his dedication and mentorship, Demeter helped shape the careers of future Major League athletes. He remained active in baseball until his passing in 2013, leaving a legacy as both player and coach.

Born in Toronto in 1940, Harper played 15 seasons in the NHL from 1963 to 1979, suiting up for the Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Atlanta Flames. He was one of the league's leading defencemen, notable for his physical style and dependable play on the blue line. After retiring as a player, Harper served as an assistant coach for the Washington Capitals and worked in player development roles. During his career, he was respected for his leadership both on and off the ice. He contributed to mentoring young players and sharing his defensive insights. Harper remains active in alumni events and charity games, maintaining strong ties to the hockey community.

Born in Písek in 1950, Bubla began his career in the Czechoslovak Extraliga with HC Litvínov. He was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in 1984 and joined the NHL at age 34. He played two seasons with the Canucks and one season with the Washington Capitals. Bubla won a silver medal at the 1976 Winter Olympics and three World Championship medals. After retiring, he returned to the Czech Republic and contributed to youth hockey development.

Born in Miami in 1952, Gottfried turned professional in 1972 and quickly rose through the rankings. He reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 3 in 1977 and won 25 singles titles. Gottfried also won 54 doubles titles, including the ATP Finals in 1976 with Raúl Ramírez. He was a key member of the U.S. Davis Cup team, helping the nation win in 1978. After retiring, he has coached and mentored young players on the professional tour.

Born in 1952 in Beaumont, Texas, Johnson played college football at Baylor University. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1974, he became known as “Bullet” for his explosive runs. He contributed to Super Bowl X and XII victories and was a fan favorite in the “Doomsday Defense.” After retiring, Johnson transitioned to coaching at the high school and college levels. His legacy endures as one of the standout backs of the Cowboys’ 1970s dynasty.

Born in 1952 in California, O'Shaughnessy was a top junior and collegiate tennis player in the 1970s. She competed professionally before earning a Ph.D. in developmental psychology at UC Berkeley. As a professor at San Diego State University, she researched childhood gender development. O’Shaughnessy co-founded Sally Ride Science to promote STEM education for girls and young women. Her work bridges sports, psychology, and advocacy for science literacy.

Brian Engblom is a former Canadian NHL defenseman renowned for his strong two-way play. Born in 1955, he won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. During his career, he played over 800 NHL games with several teams. After retiring, Engblom transitioned to broadcasting as a hockey commentator. He has worked as a color analyst for national and international hockey broadcasts. Engblom is respected for his insightful analysis and love of the game.

Cris Collinsworth is a former American football wide receiver who played eight seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, earning three Pro Bowl selections. After retiring, he became a prominent sports analyst for NBC’s Sunday Night Football and the NFL Network. Known for his articulate commentary and deep game insights, Collinsworth has covered numerous Super Bowls and NFL playoffs. He co-hosts the popular show Football Night in America and is respected for his seamless transition from the field to the broadcast booth.

Jack Haley was an American professional basketball player best known for his nine seasons in the National Basketball Association between 1986 and 1996. Primarily playing as a center and forward, he suited up for teams including the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, where he provided solid defense and rebounding off the bench. Known as a hard-working role player, Haley was admired for his team-first attitude and leadership in the locker room. After retiring as a player, he moved into coaching, serving as director of basketball operations at Loyola Marymount University and later working as a television broadcaster. Off the court, Haley was respected for his community involvement and mentorship of younger athletes. He passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to basketball at all levels.