July 25

Fred Englehardt was born in 1879 in the United States and became known for his skill in the triple jump. He competed in national athletic meets organized by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). His performances were highlighted in contemporary sports publications, reflecting the evolving techniques of the period. Englehardt’s dedication helped popularize the triple jump among American athletes. Although detailed records of his victories are limited, he was respected by his peers for his athleticism. He contributed to the growth of track and field during a time when organized athletics were gaining prominence. Englehardt remained involved in the sports community and inspired younger competitors. He passed away on July 25, 1942, as one of the early pioneers of American jumping events.

Otto Lasanen was born in 1891 in Finland and became one of the country’s prominent wrestlers. He specialized in Greco-Roman wrestling and participated in Finnish national championships. Lasanen’s strength and technique earned him recognition within Scandinavia’s wrestling community. His involvement helped establish Finland as a force in international wrestling competitions. Though specific records of his achievements are scarce, contemporary reports praised his athletic prowess. After retiring from competition, he dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young wrestlers. Lasanen’s contributions laid the groundwork for Finland’s later Olympic successes. He passed away on July 25, 1958, remembered as a pioneer of Finnish wrestling.

Born in 1880, John Meyers was a pioneer in American aquatic sports. He excelled in freestyle swimming and water polo, competing nationally and representing his country at major meets. Meyers helped popularize water polo in the United States through his athletic achievements. He set early standards for training and competition in swimming disciplines. His legacy endures in the history of American aquatic athletics.

Bryan Hextall was born in 1913 in Saskatchewan and rose to prominence as a forward in the National Hockey League. He played for the New York Rangers, helping them win the Stanley Cup in 1940 with his clutch scoring. Hextall was selected for multiple NHL All-Star teams and led the league in points on several occasions. His family continued his hockey legacy, with his sons and grandson also playing professionally. Hextall's skill and sportsmanship made him one of the era's most respected players.

Born in Texas, he turned professional in 1930 and became one of golf's all-time greats. His dedication to mastering the golf swing and relentless practice routine set a new standard for the sport. He won four U.S. Opens, two Masters tournaments, two PGA Championships, and one Open Championship. In 1949, he survived a near-fatal car accident and returned to competition with remarkable success. His instructional book on the golf swing remains influential among players and coaches. He died in 1997, celebrated for his unwavering spirit and technical brilliance.

Born in Nürtingen, he played professionally before transitioning to coaching, earning a reputation for tactical acumen. He managed several Bundesliga clubs, including Arminia Bielefeld and Fortuna Düsseldorf, guiding them through promotions and relegations. Known for his leadership and ability to develop young talent, he left a mark on German club football. His career spanned over three decades, during which he adapted to the evolving landscape of the sport. He remained respected for his dedication and insight until his death in 2000. His contributions continue to be remembered by players and fans alike.

Bernd Jakubowski began his professional career with FC Schalke 04 in the early 1970s, making over 150 Bundesliga appearances. Known for his reflexes and commanding presence, he helped the team secure domestic victories. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching, nurturing young goalkeepers at Schalke’s academy. Jakubowski’s dedication to the sport and to mentoring the next generation left a lasting impact on German football.

Jeff Fehring starred in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) with Sturt before joining Richmond in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Renowned for his long-distance kicking, Fehring set several distance records during matches. After retiring from elite competition, he contributed to local clubs as a coach and mentor. His athletic prowess and community involvement made him a respected figure in Australian football circles.

Vernon Forrest was an American professional boxer born in 1971 who achieved world titles in both the welterweight and junior middleweight divisions. He held the WBC and The Ring welterweight titles from 2002 to 2004, and the WBC super welterweight title from 2007 to 2008. Forrest was praised for his speed, footwork, and tactical approach in the ring. He famously defeated opponents such as Shane Mosley twice in 2002. Outside of boxing, he worked as a trainer and mentor to young athletes. Forrest's career record stood at 45 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw. After retiring from the sport, he remained involved in boxing education. He tragically died in 2009 at the age of 38 following a shooting incident in Guatemala. His legacy endures through the foundation established in his name to support underprivileged youth.

Greg Mohns was born in 1950 and dedicated his life to gridiron football in the United States and Canada. He played football in his early years before transitioning to coaching roles in both American college football and the Canadian Football League. Mohns spent much of his career taking on positions including assistant coach, head coach, and general manager, known for his strategic vision and leadership. Under his guidance, teams achieved playoff appearances and developed standout talent. He earned respect for his commitment to player development and organizational excellence. Mohns also consulted on football operations, shaping league policies and team strategies. Throughout his career, he built strong organizational cultures and competitive rosters. Greg Mohns passed away in 2012 at age 62, remembered as a devoted figure in North American football.

Bob Kauffman was an American professional basketball player and coach known for his versatility and leadership on the court. Born in 1946, he played in the NBA during the late 1960s and early 1970s, earning All-Star honors for his performances. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, where he shared his passion and knowledge of the game with younger athletes. Kauffman's dedication to basketball extended beyond playing and coaching, as he remained involved in community sports initiatives. He passed away in 2015, leaving a lasting influence on the basketball community.

Born in Alton, Illinois, in 1932, Lou Henson began his coaching career as an assistant before taking the helm at the University of Illinois in 1966. Over nine seasons, he transformed the Fighting Illini into a competitive program, earning multiple NCAA Tournament bids. In 1975, Henson moved to New Mexico State University, where he spent over two decades and became the winningest coach in school history. He amassed over 700 career victories, one of the few coaches to do so at two different universities. Henson was known for his disciplined coaching style, player development, and ability to revive struggling teams. He was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015 and remembered as a mentor to countless athletes. Henson passed away in July 2020 at the age of 87.