March 01

Ewart Astill was born in Leicestershire, England, in 1888 and became one of his county’s most reliable cricketers, playing over 500 first-class matches. A left-handed batsman and slow bowler, he scored more than 21,000 runs and took over 800 wickets for Leicestershire. Beyond cricket, Astill demonstrated skill as a billiards master in local tournaments. His sportsmanship and consistency made him a beloved figure among teammates and fans. He captained Leicestershire in the 1920s and was admired for his dedication to the game. Astill’s dual achievements in cricket and billiards exemplify the versatility of early 20th-century sportsmen.

Fanny Walden was born in Northampton, England, in 1888 and earned acclaim on both the football field and the cricket pitch. As a speedy outside-left, he made over 200 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur and was capped six times for the England national football team. Concurrently, Walden played first-class cricket for Northamptonshire, showcasing his skill as a batsman. After retiring as a player, he became a respected cricket umpire, officiating in county matches. His remarkable dual-sport career during the early 20th century highlights his athletic versatility. Walden remains celebrated for his speed, technique, and contributions to both football and cricket.

Born in Delisle, Saskatchewan, Bentley began his professional career with the Chicago Black Hawks in 1940 and quickly established himself as a top scorer. Over the next decade, he accumulated over 550 points and led the league in scoring in 1943–44. He won the Stanley Cup with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1942. Nicknamed the "Dipsy Doodle Dandy" for his dazzling puck handling, Bentley was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966. He retired in 1956 and left a lasting legacy as one of Canada’s greatest hockey talents.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Argetsinger graduated from law school before pursuing a passion for motorsports. In 1948, he founded the Watkins Glen Grand Prix, the first postwar road race in the United States. His legal expertise helped shape the regulatory framework for American auto racing. Argetsinger’s vision transformed Watkins Glen into an international racing destination and laid the groundwork for modern U.S. road racing circuits. He was honored by the Sports Car Club of America for his pioneering contributions to motorsports.

Born in San Francisco, California, Scolari excelled at basketball despite standing just 5’8”. He starred as a guard for the Washington Capitols and Boston Celtics in the 1940s and early 1950s. Known as “Fat Freddy” for his stout build and fierce defensive play, he was selected as an NBA All-Star four times. After retiring, Scolari worked as a coach and broadcaster, sharing his passion for the game. He was inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame for his contributions to basketball.

Allan 'Junior' Stanley was a legendary Canadian ice hockey defenseman known for his durability and leadership. He played 26 seasons in the National Hockey League for teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, earning six Stanley Cup championships. Renowned for his steady defensive play and professionalism, Stanley transitioned to coaching after retirement, guiding teams in the American Hockey League. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding career.

Born in Barberino di Mugello, Italy, Gastone Nencini rose to prominence in road cycling during the 1950s. He won the Giro d'Italia in 1957 and claimed victory in the Tour de France in 1960. Known for his daring descents, he earned the nickname 'Il Leone'. After retiring from competition, Nencini worked as a commentator and cycling promoter. His fearless style and victories left a lasting impact on the sport.

Dave Marcis is an American former stock car racing driver whose career in NASCAR spanned over four decades. He became known for competing without factory backing, often fielding his own cars against major teams. Marcis achieved more than 700 starts in the Cup Series, marking him as one of the series' most experienced competitors. His perseverance and dedication to the sport earned him respect among fellow drivers and fans alike. To this day, he is celebrated for his independent success and lasting impact on stock car racing.

José Ángel Iribar is a former Spanish football goalkeeper celebrated for his time at Athletic Bilbao. He won multiple La Liga titles and Copa del Rey trophies during the 1960s and 1970s. Iribar earned over 40 caps for Spain, featuring in World Cup and European Championship tournaments. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management and coaching roles at various clubs. His leadership and skill have secured his status as one of Spain's all-time great goalkeepers.

Dave Barr is a Canadian professional golfer born in Kelowna, British Columbia in 1952. He earned his PGA Tour card in 1980 and recorded several top-10 finishes, including a tie for second at The Players Championship in 1987. Barr won multiple titles on the South African and European Tours during the 1980s. After turning 50, he joined the Champions Tour and claimed victory at the 2003 ACE Group Classic. Known for his steady play and course management, he represented Canada in international competitions. Beyond competition, Barr has contributed to golf through coaching and mentoring emerging talent.

Leigh Matthews is an Australian rules football legend born in 1952. He played for the Hawthorn Football Club, winning eight premierships and earning the nickname 'Lethal Leigh.' Matthews won the Brownlow Medal in 1971 as the league’s best and fairest player. After retiring, he coached the Brisbane Lions to three consecutive AFL premierships (2001–2003). He later became a respected sportscaster, providing expert commentary on AFL broadcasts. Matthews’s leadership and skill have cemented his status as an icon of Australian sport.

Martin O'Neill is a Northern Irish former footballer and manager born in 1952. As a midfielder for Nottingham Forest, he won back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980. He earned over 60 caps for Northern Ireland, captaining the national team. Transitioning to management, O'Neill led Leicester City, Celtic, and Aston Villa with notable success. Under his guidance, Celtic won three Scottish Premier League titles and reached the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. Known for his tactical acumen and motivational leadership, he remains a respected figure in international football.