Estonian wrestler
Estonian wrestler
Roman Steinberg was an Estonian wrestler who represented his country in international competitions during the 1920s.
Born in 1900 in Estonia, Roman Steinberg took up Greco-Roman wrestling at a young age. He became one of the leading figures in Estonian wrestling, competing domestically and abroad. Steinberg represented Estonia in major championships, helping to raise the profile of the sport in his homeland. Despite his promising career, he died prematurely in 1928 at the age of 28. His dedication and skill continue to inspire Estonian athletes.
Roman Steinberg
English footballer and manager
English footballer and manager
Steve Bloomer was one of England's greatest early footballers, holding the national team's goalscoring record for over 60 years.
Born in 1874 in Cradley, England, Bloomer began his career with Derby County, quickly making his mark as a prolific striker. He earned 23 caps for England between 1895 and 1907, scoring 28 goals, a record that stood until 1958. Known for his exceptional anticipation and precise finishing, he was nicknamed 'Diamond' by fans. Bloomer also played for Middlesbrough later in his career before returning to Derby County. After retiring as a player, he managed clubs in Germany and the Netherlands, spreading his football knowledge abroad. He died in 1938, leaving an enduring legacy in English football history.
1938
Steve Bloomer
Irish polo player
Irish polo player
Denis St. George Daly was an Irish polo player who won a gold medal at the 1900 Paris Olympics and helped popularize the sport in Britain and Ireland.
Born in 1862 into an Anglo-Irish aristocratic family, Daly was educated at Eton and developed a passion for polo at a young age. He rose to prominence as a member of the Foxhunters Hurlingham Club team, capturing Olympic gold at the 1900 Summer Games. Daly served in the Irish Guards, where he further honed his skills on the polo field. After retiring from competition, he remained active as a coach and mentor, promoting polo across Europe. His achievements at the turn of the century paved the way for modern polo tournaments. Daly passed away in 1942, leaving behind a legacy as one of the sport's early champions.
Denis St. George Daly
Swiss-American race car driver and engineer
Swiss-American race car driver and engineer
Swiss-American race car driver and pioneering automotive engineer, known for his contributions to early American motorsport.
Arthur Chevrolet was a Swiss-American race car driver and pioneering automotive engineer.
He competed in the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 and later races, earning recognition on the American racing circuit.
Alongside his brothers Louis and Gaston Chevrolet, he co-founded the Frontenac Motor Corporation, focusing on high-performance engine components.
Chevrolet’s innovations in cylinder head design helped propel advancements in automotive engineering and racing technology.
Born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, he emigrated to the United States and settled in Detroit, the heart of the auto industry.
Throughout his career, he balanced his roles behind the wheel and under the hood, leaving a lasting impact on motorsport.
He passed away in Indianapolis in 1946, remembered as a pioneering figure in early American auto racing.
1946
Arthur Chevrolet
Danish target shooter
Danish target shooter
Danish Olympic target shooter and three-time gold medalist.
Anders Peter Nielsen was a Danish marksman who competed in sports shooting at the Olympic Games.
He participated in the 1908 London Olympics, earning two gold medals in the team small-bore rifle events and a silver in the individual competition.
Born in Aarhus in 1867, he served in the Danish Army, where he perfected his expertise in rifle marksmanship.
Nielsen’s disciplined training regimen and precision shooting made him one of Denmark’s most celebrated sports figures of his era.
He continued to compete in national and international competitions, promoting shooting sports throughout his career.
Nielsen died in 1950, leaving a legacy as a pioneering figure in Olympic shooting events.
Anders Peter Nielsen
American baseball player and umpire
American baseball player and umpire
American baseball player turned Hall of Fame umpire known for his authoritative presence on the field.
Jocko Conlan began his professional baseball career as an outfielder for the Chicago White Sox before transitioning to umpiring in 1941. Over three decades behind the plate and on the bases, he officiated World Series and All-Star games with distinction. Conlan was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974 in recognition of his contributions as an umpire. He was renowned for his deep knowledge of the game, fair judgment, and firm but respectful demeanor. Conlan also mentored younger umpires and helped raise professional standards in the sport. His legacy is reflected in the continued excellence and integrity of baseball officiating.
1989
Jocko Conlan
English cricketer
English cricketer
English cricketer who played at the first-class level during the 1960s.
Miles Lawrence was an English cricketer active in domestic first-class competitions in the 1960s. He represented his county team with consistent batting performances and contributed to important match victories. Known for his technically sound stroke play and sportsmanship, he earned respect from teammates and opponents alike. Although he did not play at the international Test level, his dedication to the sport was evident in his career achievements. After retiring from professional cricket, Lawrence remained involved as a coach and mentor to younger players. His passion for the game had a lasting impact on his club and the cricket community.
Miles Lawrence
Turkish footballer, manager and president
Turkish footballer
manager and president
Legendary Turkish footballer and long-time manager and president of Beşiktaş J.K.
Hakkı Yeten spent his entire playing career with Beşiktaş J.K., becoming one of Turkey's most celebrated midfielders. After retiring from the pitch, he served as the club's manager and later as its president during a period of significant domestic success. Under his leadership, Beşiktaş won multiple national championships and modernized its organizational structure. Yeten was instrumental in expanding the club's fan base and enhancing its reputation both in Turkey and abroad. Known affectionately as Baba Hakkı, he embodied loyalty and excellence, and his influence shaped the club's identity for generations. His contributions are honored by fans and commemorated in the Beşiktaş stadium and history.
Hakkı Yeten
English snooker player
English snooker player
English snooker legend and multiple-time world champion celebrated for his precise and elegant playing style.
Born in Chesterfield in 1913, Davis turned professional under the guidance of his brother, Joe Davis, and quickly rose to prominence in the 1930s. He claimed the World Snooker Championship titles in 1948, 1949, and 1951 and maintained a competitive presence until the 1970s. Known for his calm demeanor at the table and strategic cue work, he also excelled in billiards, winning several championships. After retiring from competition, Davis became a respected coach and commentator, promoting snooker via television appearances. He passed away in 1998, leaving behind a reputation as one of the sport's all-time greats.
Fred Davis
English footballer and manager
English footballer and manager
English footballer turned manager, respected for his leadership at clubs like Queens Park Rangers.
Born in 1917, Alec Stock began his playing career as a wing half before turning to coaching. He served as manager for several English clubs, notably Queens Park Rangers and Luton Town. Under his leadership, QPR achieved promotion to the top tier of English football for the first time. Stock was respected for his tactical knowledge and ability to develop young talent. His managerial career spanned over three decades, during which he became a beloved figure among supporters. After retiring from management in the 1970s, he remained involved in football through scouting and punditry. He passed away in 2001 at the age of 83, leaving a lasting impact on English football.
Alec Stock
English footballer and manager
English footballer and manager
English footballer and manager, recognized for his spirited leadership at Blackpool F.C. in the early 1990s.
Born in 1952, Billy Ayre enjoyed a playing career across several English lower-division clubs. He transitioned into management, taking charge of Blackpool F.C. in 1990. Under his guidance, Blackpool reached the Fourth Division play-off final, narrowly missing promotion. Ayre was praised for his motivational skills and passionate approach to coaching. He later managed clubs like Scarborough and Swansea City, earning respect throughout the football community. In his later years, he worked as a scout and assistant manager before health issues forced his retirement. He died in 2002 at the age of 49, remembered fondly by fans for his commitment and enthusiasm.
2002
Billy Ayre
Canadian ice hockey player
Canadian ice hockey player
Canadian ice hockey forward who played over 1,000 games in the NHL and was known for his gritty, dependable play.
Gaétan Duchesne was a Canadian professional ice hockey forward who enjoyed a sixteen-season career in the National Hockey League. He played for the Washington Capitals, Quebec Nordiques, Minnesota North Stars, and San Jose Sharks, becoming known for his work ethic and leadership on the ice. Duchesne scored over 700 points in his NHL career and was a fan favorite for his gritty style of play. After retiring, he remained active in youth hockey development in Quebec. His dedication to the sport left a lasting mark on every team he represented.
Gaétan Duchesne