February 18

Joe Gordon was born on February 18, 1915, in Berkeley, California. He spent the majority of his career as a second baseman with the New York Yankees from 1938 to 1948. Renowned for his powerful hitting and defensive skill, he was an eight-time All-Star and the 1942 AL MVP. Gordon won seven World Series championships as a player with the Yankees. After retiring as a player, he managed the Cleveland Indians from 1961 to 1963. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009. He passed away in 1978, leaving a lasting legacy in baseball history.

Born Volodymyr Palahniuk on February 18, 1919, in Lattimer, Pennsylvania. He worked briefly as a professional boxer before serving in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Palance transitioned to acting in the late 1940s and became famous for tough-guy roles in films like Shane and Sudden Fear. In 1991, at age 73, he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for City Slickers. He also earned three Emmy Awards for his work in television. Palance continued acting into his eighties and published his memoir, Full Circle. He died in 2006, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood character acting.

Born on February 18, 1922, in Hamtramck, Michigan. She pitched two no-hitters and recorded a perfect game during her career from 1943 to 1950. Wisniewski also excelled as an outfielder, winning a batting title in 1947. Her versatility made her one of the league's most celebrated players. After retiring, she pursued a career in dentistry and advocated for women's sports. Wisniewski died in 1995, honored as a pioneer in women's professional baseball.

Born in 1927 in Junagadh, Fazal Mahmood rose to prominence in the 1950s as a leading fast bowler for Pakistan. He played a key role in Pakistan's first Test victory in 1952-53 against India, taking 12 wickets in the series. Known for his precise line and length and ability to swing the ball both ways, he terrorized batsmen on home and away tours. Fazal finished his career with 139 Test wickets at an average of 24.02, a record for Pakistan for two decades. He captained his country in Tests and was celebrated for his sportsmanship and leadership. Off the field, he served in the police force and remained active in cricket administration. His legacy endures as one of Pakistan's greatest early cricketing heroes.

Bobby Robson was born in 1933 in Sacriston, England, and became one of his nation’s most respected football figures. As a player, he starred for Fulham and West Bromwich Albion, earning 20 caps for England as an inside forward. Transitioning to management, Robson led Ipswich Town to FA Cup victory in 1978 and the UEFA Cup title in 1981. He managed the England national team from 1982 to 1990, guiding them to the quarterfinals of three consecutive major tournaments. Robson also coached elite clubs such as PSV Eindhoven, Newcastle United, and FC Porto, winning domestic titles and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup with Porto. Known for his tactical acumen and gentlemanly demeanor, he was awarded a knighthood in 2002. Even after battling cancer, Robson remained active in charity work until his death in 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in world football.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Lucas excelled at South Oak Cliff High School before starring at Marquette University. He began his professional career in the ABA and won a championship with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1977. A 1979 NBA All-Star, he was known for his physical defense and rebounding prowess. He played a key role in the Blazers' run to the NBA Finals and earned respect league-wide. After retiring, he served as an assistant coach and mentor before passing away in 2010. His legacy lives on among basketball fans who remember his fierce competitiveness.

Born in Wismar, East Germany, Koch emerged as a sprinting sensation in the late 1970s. She set the still-standing 400m world record of 47.60 seconds in 1985. Koch won gold medals at the 1983 World Championships and multiple European Championships. She earned Olympic silver medals in 1980 before East Germany's boycott of the 1984 Games. Her dominance in the 400m and 4×400m relay established her as one of track and field's all-time greats. Her performances remain benchmarks for sprinters worldwide.

Andy Moog was a key figure in the Edmonton Oilers dynasty of the 1980s. Born in 1960 in Penticton, British Columbia, he began his NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens. Moog backstopped Edmonton to Stanley Cup championships in 1985, 1987, and 1988. He later played for the Boston Bruins and Dallas Stars, earning multiple All-Star selections. Over a 16-season career, he appeared in more than 700 NHL games and recorded over 300 wins. Moog also represented Canada in international competition. Known for his calm demeanor and technical skill, he retired as one of the league’s most reliable goaltenders.

Phillip DeFreitas was born in Dominica in 1966 and moved to England in his youth. He made his England debut in 1986 and represented the national side in 44 Test matches and 103 One Day Internationals. Known for his smooth action and ability to swing the ball, he took over 100 wickets in both formats. DeFreitas enjoyed a successful county career with Leicestershire, Lancashire, and Surrey, earning multiple domestic titles. He was part of England’s squad in three Cricket World Cups and played a key role in the team’s bowling attack. After retiring, he transitioned to coaching and broadcasting, sharing his expertise with the next generation. His contributions have left a lasting mark on English cricket.

Roberto Baggio was born in Caldogno, Italy, in 1967 and began his career with Vicenza at age 17. He starred for Juventus and AC Milan, winning Serie A titles and earning the 1993 Ballon d’Or Silver Ball. His creativity, dribbling, and free-kick mastery made him one of the most entertaining players of his generation. Baggio scored 27 goals in 56 appearances for Italy and famously led the squad to the 1994 World Cup final. Despite missing a decisive penalty in the shootout, his performances are still celebrated by fans worldwide. Nicknamed Il Divin Codino for his distinctive ponytail, he charmed audiences on and off the pitch. After retiring, he engaged in philanthropic efforts and remains a revered figure in football.

Colin Jackson was born in Cardiff in 1967 and became one of the greatest hurdlers in track and field history. In 1993, he set a world record of 12.91 seconds in the 110m hurdles, which stood for over a decade. Jackson won two World Championship gold medals and earned Olympic silver in 1988. Known for his smooth technique and powerful speed, he dominated European competitions, claiming five consecutive titles. After retiring in 2003, he transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting and sports commentary. Jackson also established charitable initiatives to support youth athletics in Wales. His achievements have left a lasting legacy in the world of track and field.

Born on February 18, 1969, Alexander Mogilny is a retired Russian ice hockey forward who became the first Soviet player to defect to North America in 1989. He enjoyed a prolific National Hockey League career with the Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils, and Vancouver Canucks, recording over 1,000 NHL points and leading the league in goals during the 1992–93 season. Mogilny won a Stanley Cup with the Devils in 2001 and earned an Olympic gold medal with the Soviet Union at the 1988 Calgary Games. Known for his speed and offensive skill, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2014. Today, he remains a celebrated figure in international hockey history.