May 07

Bill Hoyt (1875–1951) was an American pole vaulter who competed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He participated in collegiate and regional athletic meets, demonstrating the evolving techniques of the sport. Hoyt's involvement during the formative years of competitive pole vaulting helped popularize the event. Following his athletic career, he remained engaged with the sports community in mentorship roles. His contributions reflect the early history and development of track and field athletics in the United States.

While detailed records of his career are scarce, George E. Wiley competed in track cycling events across the United States in the early 1900s. He faced some of the top riders of his era and took part in the burgeoning competitive cycling scene. His involvement reflects the growing popularity of bicycle racing in America at the time. Although not widely remembered today, Wiley's efforts contributed to the foundation of professional cycling in the country. He remained connected to the sport until his death in 1954.

Born in 1893, Selke began his career coaching junior hockey before joining the National Hockey League. As manager of the Montreal Canadiens, he constructed rosters that captured five Stanley Cup titles during the Original Six era. Later, he applied his expertise to the Toronto Maple Leafs, guiding them to additional championships. Selke pioneered the farm team system, ensuring a continuous flow of young talent to the NHL. His visionary approach and leadership secured him induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1960. Selke's strategies continue to influence professional hockey management today.

Born in 1896, Godfree excelled in both tennis and badminton, a rare feat at the highest levels of competition. She won the Wimbledon singles championship in 1924 and secured multiple Grand Slam doubles titles. At the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, she earned a silver medal in women's singles tennis. In badminton, she dominated the All England Championships, claiming several titles throughout the 1920s. Her versatility and athletic prowess made her a pioneering figure in women's sports. Godfree later dedicated herself to coaching, nurturing future champions.

Dick Williams began his Major League career as a second baseman with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1957, earning Rookie of the Year honors. After transitioning to managing, he led the Oakland Athletics to back-to-back World Series championships in 1972 and 1973. Williams later guided the Toronto Blue Jays to their first playoff appearance in 1985. Known for his fiery leadership and strategic mind, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2008. Over four decades in baseball, Williams also served as a coach and consultant, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Vito 'Babe' Parilli won the Maxwell Award as quarterback at the University of Kentucky in 1950 before embarking on a professional career in the NFL and AFL. He excelled with the Boston Patriots, earning All-Star honors and helping to establish the franchise. After retiring as a player, Parilli moved into coaching and scouting, sharing his expertise with college and professional teams. His technical knowledge and leadership influenced many young athletes. Parilli passed away in 2017, remembered for his contributions to American football on and off the field.

Johnny Unitas is regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He played seventeen seasons, primarily for the Baltimore Colts, and was known for his strong arm, precision passing, and leadership on the field. Unitas led the Colts to NFL championships in 1958 and 1959 and won Super Bowl V. He was named league MVP three times and selected to numerous All-Pro teams. After retiring, he enjoyed a successful career as a sportscaster and ambassador for the NFL. Unitas's records and style of play influenced generations of quarterbacks and solidified his legacy as a gridiron great.

Tony O'Reilly began his career as a star rugby player for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, earning a reputation for his dynamic play. Transitioning to business, he became CEO of Heinz in the 1970s and later led Independent News & Media, creating one of the world's largest newspaper groups. O'Reilly diversified into property, television, and food manufacturing, amassing significant wealth. He was honored by Portugal for his business achievements and served on multiple corporate boards. Despite setbacks during the late-2000s financial crisis, he remained a notable figure in global media. O'Reilly also engaged in philanthropy, supporting education and sports initiatives.

Born on May 7, 1946, Marv Hubbard played college football at Southeastern Oklahoma State University before joining the Oakland Raiders in 1969. Known for his bruising running style and reliable blocking, he became a key player in the Raiders’ offense throughout the early 1970s. Hubbard led the league in rushing touchdowns in 1972 and appeared in three consecutive AFL/AFC Championship games, including Super Bowl appearances. After retiring in 1976, he remained connected to the sport and passed away in 2015.

Owen James Hart was a Canadian professional wrestler born into the prestigious Hart wrestling family. He gained fame in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) under ring names such as The Blue Blazer and 'The King of Harts'. A two-time WWF Intercontinental Champion and four-time WWF Tag Team Champion, he was renowned for his technical skill and high-flying maneuvers. Hart tragically died in 1999 during a stunt accident at Over the Edge pay-per-view, casting a long shadow over the wrestling world. His legacy endures through tributes, documentaries, and the continued influence of the Hart family on the sport.

Norman Whiteside is a Northern Irish former professional footballer renowned for his tenure at Manchester United. He made his first-team debut at age 17 and became the youngest player to score in an FA Cup final in 1983. Capped 38 times, he represented Northern Ireland in two World Cups and was admired for his skill and versatility as a striker and midfielder. Persistent knee and spinal injuries forced him to retire prematurely at 26. After hanging up his boots, he transitioned to football punditry and youth coaching, remaining connected to the sport.

Frank Trigg is an American mixed martial artist and professional wrestler with a background in collegiate wrestling. He competed in the UFC, PRIDE FC, and World Series of Fighting, earning a reputation for resilience and grappling skill. Trigg is known for high-profile UFC bouts against Matt Hughes and Carlos Newton. After his MMA career, he transitioned to professional wrestling with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. He has also worked as a coach and color commentator, sharing his expertise in combat sports.