May 06

Walter Rutherford was born in Scotland in 1870. Little is widely documented about his early life or training. He pursued professional golf during the sport's formative competitive era. Rutherford participated in The Open Championship on Scotland's historic links courses. Contemporaries noted his consistent play and sportsmanship among peers. Although he did not secure a major title, he remained active in competition through the early 1900s. His involvement helped promote the growth of professional golf in Scotland. Rutherford passed away in 1936, remembered as a skilled player of golf's golden era.

Hendrik van Heuckelum was an early Dutch footballer who represented his country at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London, helping the Netherlands secure the bronze medal. A forward known for his agility and keen scoring sense, he played for local clubs including HBS Craeyenhout. His performances contributed to the rise of Dutch football on the international stage. Van Heuckelum later remained involved in the sport as a trainer and advocate for youth development. His legacy endures in the Netherlands’ proud Olympic football history, and he is remembered as a pioneer of Dutch football.

Wilbur "Weeb" Ewbank began his coaching career in college football before joining the NFL in the 1950s. He guided the Baltimore Colts to consecutive NFL Championships in 1958 and 1959, including the famous "Greatest Game Ever Played." Later, he coached the New York Jets to victory in Super Bowl III, cementing his legacy in pro football history. Ewbank was known for his disciplined approach, innovative strategies, and ability to maximize player performance. After retiring, he remained a respected figure in the football community until his passing in 1998.

Harry Watson was a standout left-winger in the National Hockey League during the 1940s, most notably with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He helped lead the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 1945 and was known for his speed and accurate shot. After retiring from playing, Watson dedicated himself to coaching and development of young players in minor and junior leagues. His influence extended beyond the rink as he became a mentor to emerging talent in Canadian hockey communities. Watson's contributions to the sport were recognized by colleagues and fans alike, leaving a lasting impact on the game in Canada.

Willie Mays burst onto the Major League Baseball scene in 1951 with the New York Giants, quickly earning a reputation for his exceptional speed, power, and defensive prowess. Over a 23-season career, he amassed 660 home runs, 12 Gold Glove Awards, and 24 All-Star selections. Mays was named National League MVP in 1954 and played a key role in the Giants' World Series victory that same year. After his playing days, he served as a coach and goodwill ambassador for the sport, inspiring generations of athletes. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, his signature over-the-shoulder catch remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. Mays's blend of athleticism, charisma, and longevity have cemented his status as an enduring baseball icon.

Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter was a middleweight boxer known for his aggressive style and early successes in international competitions. In 1966, he was convicted of a triple homicide in New Jersey, a verdict later criticized as racially biased and lacking solid evidence. After a prolonged legal battle supported by activists and prominent figures, his conviction was overturned in 1985. Carter's ordeal inspired Bob Dylan's song 'Hurricane' and the 1999 film of the same name starring Denzel Washington. Following his exoneration, he dedicated his life to advocating for the wrongfully convicted, founding organizations to reform the criminal justice system. He passed away in 2014, leaving a lasting legacy in both sports and civil rights activism.

Masanori Murakami made history in 1964 as the first Japanese baseball player to compete in Major League Baseball when he joined the San Francisco Giants. Born in Ōmuta, Fukuoka, he was scouted while pitching for the Nankai Hawks in Japan's Pacific League. Murakami impressed with his sidearm delivery, posting a 4–1 record and a 3.40 ERA in his debut season. After two seasons, he returned to Japan in 1966 and continued his career with the Nankai Hawks and later the Chunichi Dragons. His pioneering move paved the way for future Japanese players in MLB and strengthened baseball ties between Japan and the United States. Murakami retired in the late 1970s and remains a celebrated figure in both Japanese and American baseball history.

Graeme Souness (born 1953) is a Scottish former footballer and manager celebrated for his commanding midfield play and leadership. As captain of Liverpool, he led the club to three European Cup victories and multiple English league titles in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Souness also enjoyed success abroad with Sampdoria in Italy before transitioning into management. His managerial career included stints at Rangers, where he won league titles, as well as Liverpool, Galatasaray, and other clubs across Europe. Known for his tough-tackling style and uncompromising attitude, he remains a respected figure in football history. Post-management, Souness has worked as a television pundit and commentator.

Jim Magilton began his senior career at Distillery before moving to Liverpool's youth system and then joining Southampton. He is best known for his time at Ipswich Town, where he made over 320 appearances. Magilton earned 52 caps for the Northern Ireland national team and captained the side in key Qualifiers. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management with roles at Ipswich Town and Queens Park Rangers. He has since served as sporting director and continues to influence football development.

Martin Brodeur holds the NHL records for most career wins and shutouts by a goaltender. He led the New Jersey Devils to Stanley Cup championships in 1995, 2000, and 2003. Brodeur was awarded the Vezina Trophy as the league's top goaltender four times and was a ten-time NHL All-Star. Internationally, he won two Olympic gold medals with Team Canada in 2002 and 2010. After retiring, he served in executive roles with the Devils and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018.

Iván de la Peña earned the nickname 'El Loco' for his creative playing style and precise long passes. He came through the FC Barcelona youth system and spent five seasons with the first team, winning the Copa del Rey. His spell at Lazio in Serie A was hampered by injuries, but he later revived his career at Espanyol, where he became club captain. Internationally, he represented Spain at youth levels and earned four senior caps. After retiring, he worked as a coach with Espanyol's youth academy and remains involved in football.

Mark Eaton was a standout defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins from 2003 to 2016. Known for his physical style and shot-blocking, he contributed to Stanley Cup victories in 2009 and 2016. Eaton played over 900 NHL games and was respected for his leadership on and off the ice. After retiring, he joined the Penguins' coaching staff as a development coach. He remains engaged in community outreach and youth hockey programs in Pittsburgh.