May 27

Ōzutsu Man'emon was born in 1869 in Hagiwara, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. He reached the highest rank of 18th Yokozuna in professional sumo wrestling. Man'emon won multiple top division championships with his powerful pushing style. He was admired for his dignity, strength, and dedication to sumo traditions. After retiring, he served as a coach and elder, shaping future sumo generations. He passed away on May 27, 1918, and is remembered as a pioneering Yokozuna.

Born in 1868, Achille Paroche represented France in sport shooting at the 1900 Paris Olympics and the 1906 Intercalated Games. He excelled in both pistol and rifle events, earning medals across international competitions. Paroche's disciplined shooting style and steady aim made him one of France's top marksmen of his era. Beyond the Olympics, he dominated national championships and inspired a generation of French shooters. His legacy endures in the history of early modern Olympic shooting.

Ed Konetchy was born in 1885 in St. Louis, Missouri, and made his Major League debut with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1907. Known for his reliable fielding and consistent hitting, he played 12 seasons in the National League. Konetchy accumulated over 1,600 career hits and led the league in games played multiple times. After retiring as a player, he managed and coached in the minor leagues, sharing his expertise with younger players. His career reflected the golden age of early professional baseball. Konetchy passed away in 1947, remembered as a durable and respected figure in the sport.

Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, Burkett made his Major League debut in 1890 and swiftly became one of baseball’s premier hitters. He captured three batting titles, including a .410 average in 1895, cementing his reputation for consistency at the plate. Nicknamed "Slugger," he was known for his disciplined batting style and strategic approach to the game. After retiring as a player in 1905, he managed the St. Louis Browns and influenced a new generation of ballplayers. In 1946, Burkett was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding career. His enduring legacy lies in his role as one of the sport’s earliest hitting legends.

Born in Livorno, Picchi began his professional career with Livorno before moving to Catania and then Inter Milan in 1961. As captain of 'La Grande Inter,' he led the side to three Serie A championships and back-to-back European Cups in 1964 and 1965 under manager Helenio Herrera. Renowned for his leadership and defensive intelligence, he marshaled the back line with tactical acumen. After hanging up his boots in 1967, Picchi transitioned into coaching, managing clubs like Varese and Juventus and later returning to Livorno. His ability to inspire teamwork and resilience made him a respected figure off the pitch. Picchi’s sudden death at age 36 from illness shocked the football world, but his legacy endures as one of Italy’s greatest defenders.

Maurice Richard was a Canadian ice hockey icon who played his entire NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens. Born in 1921, he became the first player to score 50 goals in 50 games during the 1944-45 season. His fierce competitiveness and goal-scoring prowess inspired the famous 'Richard Riot' in 1955 after he was suspended by the NHL. A five-time Stanley Cup champion, he later coached and mentored young players. Richard’s enduring impact on the sport earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1961 and solidified his status as a national hero in Canada.

Craig 'Ironhead' Heyward was an American football fullback who played for the New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, Indianapolis Colts, and Carolina Panthers. He earned the nickname 'Ironhead' for his tough playing style and remarkable strength. Heyward starred at the University of Pittsburgh before being drafted in the first round of the 1988 NFL Draft. Over his career, he rushed for over 5,500 yards and scored 43 touchdowns. He was selected to the 1989 Pro Bowl. After retiring, he remained involved in youth football and community coaching. Heyward passed away from cancer at the age of 39, leaving behind a legacy as one of the league’s most formidable backs.

Margo Dydek (1974–2011) was a Polish-American professional basketball player renowned for her height and skill. At 7 feet 2 inches, she remains the tallest woman to play in the WNBA. Dydek was the first overall pick in the 1998 WNBA Draft and was named an all-star twice while playing for the Utah Starzz and San Antonio Silver Stars. She led the Polish national team in multiple international tournaments, ranking among Europe’s top centers. Off the court, she inspired young athletes and advocated for women’s sports. Her sudden death from cardiac arrest shocked the basketball community and led to greater awareness of athlete heart health.

Roberto Vargas (1929–2014) broke barriers as one of the early Puerto Rican pitchers in Major League Baseball, debuting with the Cleveland Indians. After his playing days, he devoted decades to coaching and managing in minor leagues and winter leagues in Puerto Rico. Vargas was admired for his mentorship of young players and deep knowledge of pitching mechanics. His contributions helped foster baseball talent on both sides of the Atlantic, cementing his legacy in the sport.

Erik Carlsson (1929–2015) was a trailblazer in rally racing, driving Saab to victory in events like the RAC Rally and Monte Carlo Rally. His signature lift and coast technique revolutionized handling on loose surfaces. Carlsson's success brought global attention to Scandinavian rallying and the potential of compact cars in motorsport. After retiring, he remained active as a test driver and ambassador for Saab, sharing his expertise with future generations of drivers.

Andy King was born in 1956 and had a distinguished career in the English Football League, making hundreds of appearances as a reliable defender. After retiring from playing in the late 1980s, he transitioned into coaching and took on managerial roles at various clubs. Known for his leadership on and off the pitch, King earned respect from teammates and fans alike. His tactical understanding and dedication to the sport made him a valued figure in English football. Andy King passed away in 2015, leaving a legacy of commitment and passion for the game.

Bill Walton was born in 1952 and rose to prominence as a college basketball player at UCLA, winning two national championships under coach John Wooden. He went on to an NBA career that included a league MVP award and championships with the Portland Trail Blazers and Boston Celtics. Walton was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in recognition of his impact on the game. After retiring, he transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, known for his enthusiastic and insightful commentary. His colorful personality and deep love of basketball made him a beloved figure among fans. Bill Walton passed away in 2024, remembered as one of the sport's most charismatic champions.