May 22

He was nicknamed 'The Big Ship' for his formidable stature and leadership. He played 50 Test matches for Australia between 1902 and 1921, excelling as both a batsman and leg-spin bowler. Under his captaincy, Australia achieved dominant series victories against England. After retiring from cricket, he pursued a career in journalism, writing about sports and politics. Armstrong's influence extended beyond the pitch as he shaped early 20th-century cricket with his innovative strategies. He remains one of Australia's most celebrated all-rounders.

Born in 1902, Jack Lambert emerged as one of England's most prolific centre-forwards in the interwar period. He began his career at Notts County before making a high-profile move to Arsenal, where he contributed to the club's first league titles. Lambert's powerful shooting and positional intelligence made him a constant threat in front of goal. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management, guiding teams in the Football League. His impact on English football during the 1920s remains celebrated by clubs and supporters. He passed away in 1940, remembered for his remarkable playing career.

Born Aloysius Harry Simmons in 1902, he became one of baseball's most feared hitters. Simmons played a key role in two World Series championships with the Philadelphia Athletics. He finished his career with a .334 batting average and amassed over 2,800 hits. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1953, he later served as a coach for several MLB teams. Simmons was known for his consistency at the plate and clutch performances in big games. He died in 1956, leaving a lasting legacy in America's pastime.

Horton Smith (1908–1963) was an American professional golfer who won the first Masters Tournament in 1934 and again in 1936. Over his career, he secured 30 PGA Tour victories and became one of the leading players of his era. He served as captain of the U.S. Ryder Cup team, demonstrating leadership and sportsmanship. Smith was admired for mentoring younger golfers and promoting the growth of professional golf. His legacy lives on in the sport’s history as a pioneer and champion.

Born in 1935 in Sydney, Billy Rayner debuted for the St. George Dragons in 1953. He played as a prop forward during the club's golden era, contributing to eight straight premiership titles from 1956 to 1963. Renowned for his strength and resilience, Rayner became a fan favorite at Kogarah. He represented New South Wales and toured with the Australian Kangaroos in international test matches. After retiring in 1964, he coached at the grassroots level and remained active in rugby league circles. Rayner passed away in 2006, remembered as a pillar of one of the sport's greatest teams.

E. A. S. Prasanna is a former Indian cricketer renowned for his precise off-spin bowling in Test cricket. Born in 1940, he was a central figure in India’s celebrated spin quartet alongside Bedi, Chandrasekhar, and Venkataraghavan. Prasanna played 49 Test matches between 1962 and 1978, taking 189 wickets at an impressive average. His flight and subtle variations troubled batsmen on subcontinental surfaces. After retiring, he served as a cricket administrator and authored works on spin bowling technique. Prasanna’s legacy endures in the rise of spin talent in Indian cricket.

Alvin "Mick" Tingelhoff (1940–2021) played his entire 17-season NFL career (1962–1978) as the steadfast center for the Minnesota Vikings. Renowned for his durability, he started 240 consecutive games and anchored the offensive line during four Super Bowl appearances. Tingelhoff was selected to six Pro Bowls and was known for his outstanding blocking technique and football intelligence. His collegiate success at the University of Nebraska laid the foundation for his professional achievements. In recognition of his impact on the game, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015. Tingelhoff's leadership and consistency made him one of the greatest centers in NFL history.

Walter Menzies Campbell (born 1941) is a Scottish politician and diplomat who served as leader of the UK Liberal Democrats from 2006 to 2007. Before entering politics, he excelled as a sprinter, representing Great Britain in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and holding the British 100m record. Campbell practiced as a barrister and was elected Member of Parliament for North East Fife in 1987, focusing on foreign affairs and defense. He later acted as the party's foreign affairs spokesperson and vice-president of the European Parliament. As leader, he championed civil liberties, electoral reform, and closer ties with Europe. Campbell's scholarly interests and athletic achievements make him a unique figure in modern British history.

Roger Brown (1942–1997) was a standout forward in the American Basketball Association who starred for the Indiana Pacers from their inception in 1967 through 1974. He played a key role in leading the Pacers to three ABA championships (1970, 1972, 1973) and was selected to two All-Star teams for his scoring ability and leadership. Brown honed his skills at Xavier University before showcasing his talents with the Phillips 66ers in the AAU. Nicknamed "Mr. Hustle," he became a fan favorite for his relentless work ethic and competitive spirit. His contributions were honored with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. Brown's legacy endures as one of the ABA's most influential players.

Thomas Edward John (born 1943) is a former MLB pitcher whose 26-year career spanned four decades, playing for teams such as the Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees. He achieved 288 career wins and made four All-Star appearances, earning a reputation for durability and precise pitching. In 1974, John underwent pioneering ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, a procedure that extended his career and revolutionized sports medicine. Returning to the mound post-surgery, he continued to perform at a high level and became a mentor for younger pitchers facing similar injuries. After retiring in 1989, John worked as a broadcaster and advocate for player health. His name remains synonymous with one of baseball's most significant medical advancements.

George Best was born in Belfast in 1946 and made his professional debut for Manchester United at age 17. Renowned for his dribbling skills and flair, he won the Ballon d'Or in 1968. Best played a key role in Manchester United's 1968 European Cup victory. Off the field, his charismatic personality and struggles with alcoholism attracted widespread attention. Despite his personal challenges, he remains one of football's most iconic figures until his death in 2005.