May 08

Ross Barnes was born in Brooklyn, New York, and became one of the first stars of professional baseball. Playing for the Boston Red Stockings in the National Association and later the National League, he led the league in batting average multiple times. In 1876, he recorded a .429 average, showcasing his innovative "fair-foul" hitting technique. Barnes was celebrated for his speed on the bases and versatility in the infield. He retired in 1879 after rule changes curtailed his unique batting style, but his early achievements influenced the game's development. He passed away in 1915, remembered as one of baseball's pioneer hitters.

Daniel Brouthers was born in Sylvan Lake, New York, and became a dominant first baseman in early professional baseball. Over a 20-year career from 1879 to 1904, he compiled a career batting average of .342 and scored over 2,000 runs. He led the league in batting average and slugging percentage multiple times, earning a reputation for power hitting. Nicknamed "Big Dan," he was one of the first true sluggers in the major leagues. His consistent excellence earned him induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1945. He died in 1932, leaving a legacy as one of baseball’s earliest legends.

Wesley Coe was an American track and field athlete born in 1879. He specialized in shot put and discus throw, becoming one of the leading throwers of his era and winning several national championships. Coe also competed in tug of war, demonstrating his exceptional strength and versatility. He represented the United States in international competitions, helping to raise the profile of athletics in America during the early 1900s. Known for his disciplined training and powerful technique, Coe set new standards for field events. His achievements contributed to the growth of organized athletics and influenced future generations of throwers. Coe passed away in 1926, remembered as a pioneer of modern throwing sports.

Francis Ouimet was an American amateur golfer born in 1893 in Massachusetts. He made history by winning the 1913 U.S. Open at just 20 years old, defeating golfing legends Harry Vardon and Ted Ray in a dramatic playoff. Ouimet’s triumph with borrowed clubs captivated the nation and is credited with popularizing golf in the United States. Known as the 'father of amateur golf in America,' he co-founded the U.S. Amateur Golf Association and served as its president. Ouimet also enjoyed success in other tournaments and worked as an insurance executive. He contributed to golf course design and promoted the game through exhibition matches and writing. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, Ouimet died in 1967, leaving an enduring legacy in American sports history.

Edd Roush was an American professional baseball center fielder born in 1893. He spent the majority of his career with the Cincinnati Reds, winning two National League batting titles and leading the league in on-base percentage four times. Renowned for his high batting average of .323 and strong defensive play, Roush was a key figure in the Reds’ 1919 World Series championship. After his playing days, he became a coach and scout, mentoring young players in the minor and major leagues. Roush was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962, recognized for his consistent excellence at the plate and in the field. He passed away in 1988, remembered as one of the greatest hitters and center fielders of his era.

Teddy Wakelam was an English rugby union player born in 1893. After playing for Rosslyn Park and participating in trials for the England national team, he transitioned to broadcasting in the 1920s. Wakelam became one of the first sports commentators on BBC radio, covering rugby matches and later football fixtures with a clear and engaging style. His pioneering work brought the excitement of live sports to a broad audience and established techniques still used by commentators today. In addition to his broadcasting career, he wrote articles and columns on sports for various publications. Wakelam’s contributions to both rugby and media earned him recognition as a trailblazer in sports coverage. He died in 1963, leaving a legacy as one of the earliest voices of live sports radio.

James "Turkey" Stearnes was an American baseball player celebrated as one of the greatest hitters in Negro leagues history. Playing primarily for the Detroit Stars between 1920 and 1933, he led the league in home runs and batting average multiple times with a lifetime average of .347. Stearnes was renowned for his powerful swing, earning him the nickname "Turkey" for his distinctive strut. He later played in Canada and served as a mentor to younger players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000, Stearnes is remembered as a pioneer who excelled during the era of segregated baseball.

Born in 1916 in Rio de Janeiro, João Havelange represented Brazil as a water polo player at the 1936 Berlin Olympics before pursuing a career in law. After founding the Brazilian Sports Confederation, he rose to international prominence as President of the International Olympic Committee's Brazilian association. Elected FIFA President in 1974, Havelange transformed the World Cup into a global spectacle, expanding the tournament and increasing revenue through commercial partnerships. Under his leadership, FIFA introduced new competitions and development programs for football worldwide. He served in the role until 1998, becoming one of the longest-serving presidents in sports history. Havelange's tenure was credited with modernizing football governance and professionalizing the game's administration. He passed away in 2016, leaving a complex legacy as a visionary and controversial figure in global sports.

Barbara Howard (1920–2017) was born in Vancouver and became a standout track athlete at the University of British Columbia. In 1938, she made history as the first Black woman to represent Canada at an international athletic competition, finishing fifth in the 100-yard dash at the British Empire Games. After her competitive career, she dedicated herself to education, teaching physical education and later supporting students with special needs. Howard’s achievements broke racial and gender barriers in Canadian sports and inspired future generations of athletes. She was inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of her trailblazing contributions.

Doug Atkins was an American professional football player famed for his dominant career as a defensive end. He played 14 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Cleveland Browns and the Chicago Bears. Known for his strength and relentless pass rush, Atkins recorded numerous sacks and set the standard for modern defensive play. A five-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time NFL champion, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982. Off the field, Atkins was admired for his charismatic personality and community involvement. His innovative playing style influenced generations of defensive linemen. Atkins is remembered as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history.

Jack Charlton was an English footballer and manager renowned for his contributions to the sport. As a defender for Leeds United, he helped the club achieve multiple English league titles and FA Cup successes. Charlton earned 35 caps for England and played a vital role in the team's 1966 World Cup victory. After retiring as a player, he became a successful manager, leading the Republic of Ireland to their first major tournament at Euro 1988 and World Cup appearances in 1990 and 1994. Known for his straightforward leadership style and tactical acumen, Charlton became a beloved figure in Irish football. He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2005. Charlton's legacy lives on through his pioneering achievements as both a player and coach.

Mike Cuellar was a Cuban-American professional baseball pitcher celebrated for his crafty left-handed pitching. After defecting from Cuba, he joined the Houston Astros in 1965 and became a cornerstone of their rotation. Cuellar was a five-time All-Star selection between 1968 and 1972 and led the American League in wins. In 1969, he earned the Cy Young Award, and the following year he helped the Baltimore Orioles capture the World Series title. Known for his deceptive screwball and competitive spirit, he compiled a career win-loss record of 143-109. Cuellar's success paved the way for other Latin American players in Major League Baseball. He remains remembered as one of the game's most effective pitchers of his era.