March 10

Myer Prinstein (1878–1925) immigrated to the United States from Poland and became one of the early stars of American athletics. He won gold medals in the long jump at the 1900 Paris Olympics and the 1904 St. Louis Olympics, setting world records in the process. Prinstein competed for the Irish American Athletic Club and Princeton University, showcasing exceptional consistency and technique. His achievements helped popularize track and field sports in the United States. He remained an influential figure in athletics until his death in 1925.

Bob Nieman was born in 1927 in Coffeyville, Kansas, and made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Browns in 1951. He quickly gained attention for his powerful batting and became the first player to hit home runs in his first two major league at-bats. Nieman played for several teams, including the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants, earning a reputation as a reliable hitter and baserunner. Over his ten-year career, he compiled a .295 batting average and contributed to numerous key games. After retiring as a player, he served as a scout and coach, sharing his expertise with younger generations. Nieman's achievements remain a celebrated part of mid-century baseball history until his death in 1986.

Ernie Ladd began his athletic career as a standout defensive tackle in the American Football League with the San Diego Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs. Standing 6’9″ and weighing over 300 pounds, he combined strength and speed on the gridiron, earning two AFL All-Star selections. After retiring from football, Ladd reinvented himself as a charismatic heel in professional wrestling, captivating audiences with his brash personality. He competed in major promotions like the NWA and WWF, becoming one of the first high-profile crossover athletes in wrestling. Known for selling nonsense holds to comical effect, he helped popularize sports entertainment. Ladd later worked as a commentator and promoter, influencing the next generation of wrestlers. He passed away in 2007, remembered as a pioneer who excelled in two fiercely competitive sports genres.

Roberto Perfumo was born in 1942 and debuted as a formidable centre-back for Racing Club, where he won multiple domestic titles. He later starred for River Plate and earned the nickname “El Mariscal” for his composure and leadership on the field. Perfumo captained the Argentina national team during the 1966 World Cup, solidifying his status as a defensive legend. After retiring, he transitioned to sportscasting, bringing insightful analysis to television audiences. His contributions to football on and off the pitch remain celebrated in Argentina.