July 28

Albertson Van Zo Post was an American fencer born in 1866 in Paterson, New Jersey. At the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis, he won four medals—two golds and two silvers—in foil and épée events. His achievements helped establish the United States as a competitive force in international fencing. Aside from sports, he had interests in writing and editorial work, contributing to fencing publications. Post's Olympic success inspired future generations of American fencers. He died in 1938, remembered as one of the pioneers of U.S. competitive fencing.

Frederick Charles Fitzsimmons (1901–1979) was an American left-handed pitcher known as 'Fat Freddie'. He played 19 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Giants, and helped them win the 1933 World Series. After his playing career, he transitioned to coaching and managing, leading the Brooklyn Dodgers and other teams with a sharp baseball mind. Over his career, he amassed over 200 wins and was celebrated for his mastery of the knuckle curveball. Fitzsimmons's enduring impact on baseball spanned playing, coaching, and leadership roles.

Luigi Musso was an Italian racing driver known for his daring style on track. He competed in Formula One during the 1950s with teams such as Maserati and Ferrari. Musso achieved four podium finishes in World Championship Grands Prix. He was admired for his aggressive overtaking and fearless approach to racing. Tragically, Musso died in a crash at the 1958 French Grand Prix in Reims. His career remains emblematic of the golden era of Grand Prix racing.

Born in Sydney in 1931, Johnny Martin made his first-class debut for Queensland in 1952 as a right-handed batsman. Known for his solid technique and dependable temperament, he compiled over 2,000 runs in just over a decade of play. Martin contributed key innings against touring international sides, earning respect for his sportsmanship. He was a mainstay of the Queensland batting order, forming partnerships that often rescued his team from difficult situations. After retiring in 1962, Martin continued to influence the game as a coach at club level, mentoring young players. His dedication to cricket extended beyond the pitch through involvement in local cricket administration. Although he never played for Australia, he remains a celebrated figure in Queensland cricket history. Martin died in 1992, remembered for his quiet leadership and consistency.

Born in Canada, Charlie Hodge rose to fame as a talented goaltender in the National Hockey League. He played for the Montreal Canadiens, winning four Stanley Cups during his career. He later joined the Vancouver Canucks, where he continued to demonstrate his agility and consistency. After retiring from the ice, Hodge worked as a scout, identifying and nurturing new hockey talent. His dedication to the sport earned him respect across the league and a lasting legacy in Canadian hockey. He passed away in 2016, remembered for his championship success and keen eye for players.

Russ Jackson is celebrated as one of the greatest Canadian football quarterbacks of all time. He spent his entire professional career with the Ottawa Rough Riders from 1958 to 1969. Jackson led the team to three Grey Cup victories and was named Grey Cup MVP in 1960 and 1968. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and educator, promoting the sport at grassroots levels. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1973. Jackson's leadership on and off the field made him a lasting icon in Canadian sports history.

Sir Garfield Sobers is a former West Indies cricketer celebrated for his extraordinary all-round talent. He could bat explosively, bowl fast or spin, and was an athletic fielder, making him a complete player. Sobers made his Test debut at age 17 and scored 365 not out against Pakistan in 1958, a record for 36 years. He captained the West Indies team and led them to several significant victories during the 1960s. Sobers was knighted in 1975 for his services to cricket. After retiring, he remained active in coaching and charity work, inspiring future generations.

Luis Aragonés enjoyed a successful playing career as a midfielder with Atlético Madrid and other clubs. He transitioned to management, where he became known for his tactical acumen and leadership. In 2008, Aragonés guided the Spanish national team to its first major trophy in 44 years. His style emphasized possession football and quick passing, laying the foundation for Spain's golden era. Aragonés also managed several top European clubs, including Barcelona and Valencia. He passed away in 2014 but is remembered as a transformative figure in modern football.

John Sattler was an iconic Australian rugby league player celebrated for his toughness and leadership on the field. He captained the South Sydney Rabbitohs to multiple premiership victories in the 1960s and early 1970s. Sattler famously continued playing with a broken jaw during the 1970 Grand Final, cementing his status as a rugby legend. He represented Queensland and Australia in international matches, earning acclaim for his formidable presence as a prop forward. After retiring, he remained active in the rugby community, mentoring young players. Sattler's legacy endures as a symbol of grit and sportsmanship.

Bill Bradley is an American former professional basketball player turned politician. He won two NBA championships with the New York Knicks in the early 1970s and was named an All-Star three times. After his athletic career, he served three terms as a U.S. senator from New Jersey, focusing on education and tax reform. In 2000, Bradley ran a campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and social justice. He teaches at universities and writes on public policy, continuing his commitment to civic engagement. Bradley’s dual legacy in sports and politics makes him a unique figure in American history.

Vida Rochelle Blue Jr. (July 28, 1949 - May 6, 2023) was an American Major League Baseball left-handed starting pitcher. He burst onto the scene with the Oakland Athletics in 1971, earning both the American League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award in the same season. Blue helped lead the Athletics to three consecutive World Series championships from 1972 to 1974. After his playing career, he became a sportscaster and occasionally coached youth baseball. Known for his powerful fastball and competitive spirit, Blue remains one of the most celebrated pitchers of his generation.

Doug Collins is an American former professional basketball player and coach, born in 1951 in Staten Island, New York. He was the first overall pick in the 1973 NBA Draft, selected by the Philadelphia 76ers. Collins spent his playing career with the 76ers and Washington Bullets, earning four NBA All-Star selections. After retiring as a player in 1981, he transitioned to coaching, leading the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons in the 1990s. He also served as head coach of the Washington Wizards and briefly coached the Detroit Pistons again in 2015. Collins is known for his basketball analysis work on TNT's coverage of the NBA.