July 09

Born in Bourbonnais, Illinois, Léo Dandurand moved to Canada as a young man and became deeply involved in ice hockey. He co-owned the Montreal Canadiens from 1921 to 1935, winning two Stanley Cups as an owner. Dandurand also served as coach of the Canadiens and later as president of the American Hockey League. Known for his colorful personality and promotional flair, he helped establish the modern structure of professional hockey. His contributions to refereeing and league administration earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

George Geary emerged as one of England’s leading seam bowlers in the 1920s, playing first-class cricket for Nottinghamshire from 1919 to 1939. He debuted in Test cricket in 1921 and went on to appear 26 times for England, known for his precise line and unyielding accuracy. Geary took over 1,000 first-class wickets in his career and captained Nottinghamshire to successes in county championships. After retiring as a player, he coached and mentored younger cricketers, influencing the development of English bowling techniques. His sportsmanship and consistency made him a respected figure in cricket history.

Clarence Campbell began his career as a referee before rising to become president of the National Hockey League from 1946 to 1977. Under his leadership, the NHL doubled in size, introducing six new teams in the landmark 1967 expansion. He presided over significant rule changes and managed landmark events such as the Richard Riot in Montreal. Campbell’s steadfast vision and administrative acumen helped professional hockey grow into a major North American sport. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966 for his contributions to the game.

Mac Wilson was born on July 9, 1914, and made his VFL debut as a sturdy half-back flanker. He played with passion and consistency, earning respect from teammates and opponents alike. His career in the top league showcased his dedication to the sport during a formative era. After retiring from professional football, he remained active in local clubs and youth coaching. He lived to the age of 103, becoming one of the longest-lived former VFL players. Wilson's legacy endures among Australian rules football historians and fans.

Jim Pollard was an influential American basketball player and coach during the early years of the NBA. Known as the 'Kangaroo Kid' for his exceptional leaping ability, he starred as a forward for the Minneapolis Lakers. Pollard helped lead the Lakers to five championships between 1949 and 1954. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, leading teams in college and professional leagues. He was named to the NBA's 25th Anniversary Team in recognition of his impact on the sport. Pollard's athleticism and skill helped popularize basketball in the post-war era. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1960. His legacy endures as a pioneer of modern professional basketball.

Pedro Dellacha (1926-2010) established himself at clubs like Quilmes and Racing Club, earning a reputation for his robust defending and tactical awareness. He captained the Argentina national team to victory in the 1957 South American Championship (Copa América). After retiring as a player, Dellacha transitioned into coaching, leading teams to league titles across Argentina and abroad. His disciplined approach and strategic insight made him one of the most respected figures in Latin American football. Dellacha’s impact endures in the clubs and players he mentored throughout his long career.

Red Kelly (1927-2019) began his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings, winning four Stanley Cups as a defenseman. He later switched to center with the Toronto Maple Leafs, adding four more championships to his resume. After retiring as a player, Kelly coached the Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings, sharing his deep knowledge of the game. In the 1980s, he entered politics, serving as a Liberal Member of Parliament in Canada and later a provincial legislator in Ontario. Kelly’s excellence both on the ice and in public service left an enduring legacy in Canadian sports and politics.

Federico Bahamontes (1928-2023) made history in 1959 as the first Spaniard to win the Tour de France, showcasing extraordinary strength in the mountain stages. Known as 'The Eagle of Toledo,' he claimed the King of the Mountains title six times during his career. Bahamontes’s aggressive climbing style and daring descents made him a fan favorite and a legend of the sport. He competed in seven Tours de France and numerous other Grand Tours, leaving a lasting mark on cycling history. After retirement, he remained an ambassador for the sport, inspiring generations of riders with his fearless spirit.

Roy McLean was a dual-sport athlete who represented South Africa at the highest levels of cricket and rugby union. As a cricketer, he played as a wicket-keeper batsman in Test matches during the 1950s. On the rugby field, he competed for the Natal provincial team with distinction. McLean’s athletic versatility and competitive spirit earned him recognition in both sports communities. His performances contributed to South Africa’s sporting heritage before his passing in 2007.

Amitzur Shapira (July 9, 1932 – September 6, 1972) was an Israeli track athlete specializing in sprints and long jump. He competed for Israel in the 1950s and became a respected coach for the national Olympic team. In 1972, he traveled to the Munich Olympics as the team’s track coach. He was tragically taken hostage and killed by terrorists during the Munich massacre. Shapira is remembered for his dedication to developing Israeli athletics and his untimely death that shocked the sports world.

John Cunniff played in the NHL for teams such as the Boston Bruins and Minnesota North Stars during his professional career. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching and scouting, contributing to the success of several NHL franchises. Cunniff coached the Hartford Whalers and served as an assistant coach for the New York Rangers and San Jose Sharks. He also led the United States national team during international competitions, including the Canada Cup. Known for his strategic insights and player development skills, he mentored many future stars. Cunniff’s career in hockey spanned over three decades, reflecting his passion and dedication to the sport. He passed away in 2002, remembered for his enduring influence as both a player and coach.

Born in 1947, Simpson won the Heisman Trophy in 1968 and became one of the NFL's top running backs with the Buffalo Bills, setting multiple records and earning Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 1985. After retiring from football, he pursued acting and broadcasting, appearing in films like The Towering Inferno and The Naked Gun series. In 1994, he was charged in the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman; his televised criminal trial ended in acquittal, though he was later found liable in a civil suit. Simpson's subsequent legal troubles included a 2008 conviction for armed robbery. His complex legacy continues to spark debate over fame, race, and the justice system.