June 26

George Hainsworth was a Canadian ice hockey goaltender born on June 26, 1895. He played in the NHL predominantly for the Montreal Canadiens, winning three Stanley Cups. Hainsworth set enduring goaltending records, including a career goals-against average that stood for decades. After retiring from hockey, he served in local politics, advocating for sports and community programs. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1961, cementing his legacy as one of the game's greats. Hainsworth's calm demeanor and technical skill made him a model for future generations of goaltenders.

Debs Garms was born in 1907 and enjoyed a ten-year career in Major League Baseball. Primarily an outfielder, he played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates. In 1940, he claimed the National League batting title with a .355 average. Garms was known for his hitting consistency and disciplined batting approach. He contributed to the Pirates’ pennant-winning season in 1941. After retiring, he remained involved in baseball through coaching and scouting roles.

Babe Didrikson Zaharias was born in 1911 and rose to fame at the 1932 Olympics, winning two gold medals in track and field. She dominated women’s golf, earning 10 LPGA major championships and co-founding the LPGA Tour. Zaharias also shone on the basketball court, leading teams to championship victories. Her competitive spirit and multifaceted talent earned her widespread acclaim and media attention. She broke barriers for female athletes, advocating for women’s sports nationwide. Zaharias’s legacy endures as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century.

George Haigh was an English footballer known for his steadfast defending. He played for clubs including Blackpool, Stockport County, and Rochdale in the Football League. Haigh was admired for his aerial ability and leadership on the pitch. His career spanned post-war football, a period of rebuilding for many clubs. After retiring, he contributed to local youth coaching, nurturing future talents. Off the field, Haigh was respected for his sportsmanship and community involvement. He remained a beloved figure in English football until his passing in 2019.

Jimmy Newberry (1919–1983) was an American professional baseball pitcher who played in the Negro Leagues and Japanese leagues. He broke barriers by becoming one of the first African-American players to sign with a Japanese team after World War II. Newberry pitched for teams such as the Birmingham Black Barons and the Hankyu Braves. Known for his fastball and resilience, he earned respect on both continents. After retiring as a player, he briefly coached young athletes in the United States. Newberry's career highlighted the global reach of baseball and the breaking of racial barriers.

Jean-Pierre Roy (1920–2014) was a Canadian-American baseball outfielder, manager, and sportscaster. He played in Major League Baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1946. After his playing career, he managed minor league teams and later became a beloved radio analyst for the Montreal Expos. Roy's engaging commentary and deep knowledge of the game endeared him to generations of fans. He also coached youth baseball clinics across Quebec, promoting the sport at the grassroots level. Roy's contributions to baseball spanned playing, coaching, and broadcasting.

Wolfgang Unzicker (1925–2006) was one of the leading German chess players of the mid-20th century. He won the West German Championship five times between 1954 and 1966 and represented his country in eleven Chess Olympiads. Known for his solid positional play and impeccable sportsmanship, he defeated many top grandmasters of his era. Off the board, Unzicker practiced law and campaigned to introduce chess into schools. His annotated game collections continue to influence players and coaches worldwide.

Born in 1930 in Nashville, Tennessee, Jackie Fargo became a wrestling star during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for his flamboyant persona and dynamic in-ring style, he earned the nickname 'The Fabulous Fargo'. He drew sell-out crowds across the Southern United States, pioneering tag team entertainment alongside Rip Hawk. After retiring from active competition, he mentored future wrestling stars and ran wrestling schools. Fargo’s contributions to the sport were honored with multiple hall of fame inductions before his passing in 2013.

Gene Green was an American professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball from 1958 to 1967. He debuted with the St. Louis Cardinals before becoming a regular with the Kansas City Athletics and later the Baltimore Orioles. Known for his left-handed power swing, Green hit 61 home runs and recorded 224 RBIs over his career. His best season came in 1962 when he posted 19 home runs for the Athletics. Green started his career in the Cardinals’ farm system and earned a reputation as a reliable pinch-hitter and outfielder. After retiring from playing, he remained involved in baseball as a minor league coach. Green passed away in 1981 at the age of 47.

Toru Goto is a Japanese former competitive swimmer active during the 1950s. He specialized in backstroke events and competed in national and international competitions. Known for his smooth stroke and strong starts, Goto was among Japan’s leading swimmers of his era. After retiring from competition, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor for young athletes. His dedication to swimming helped inspire a new generation of Japanese swimmers.

Carlo Facetti is an Italian racing driver and automotive engineer who began his career in the 1960s in sports car competition. He achieved class victories at events such as the Targa Florio and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Facetti also competed in the European Touring Car Championship driving for teams like Lancia and Alfa Romeo. Known for his technical expertise, he later worked on engine development and tuning for various racing outfits. His career spans over two decades of high-profile international motorsport events.

Sandro Riminucci is an Italian former basketball player active during the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was known for his scoring ability and defensive skills on the court. Riminucci played in Italy’s top basketball league and earned selection to the national team. He competed in several international tournaments, helping to raise the profile of Italian basketball. After retiring as a player, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor for young athletes.