July 31

Fonst won two gold medals in fencing at the 1900 Paris Olympics at just 16 years old. He competed in both épée and foil events, earning additional medals in subsequent Games. His success marked a milestone for Latin American athletes on the Olympic stage. Fonst later served as a mentor and promoter of fencing in Cuba and the United States. He remained involved in the sport for decades, helping to develop future generations of fencers.

Fred Keenor (1894-1972) was a celebrated Welsh footballer and World War I veteran. He began his career at Ton Pentre before moving to Cardiff City in 1919. As captain, he led Cardiff to FA Cup glory in 1927, the only non-English team to win the trophy. He earned 32 caps for the Wales national team over his career. After retiring as a player, Keenor served as a coach and mentor to younger footballers. His leadership on and off the field made him a national hero in Wales.

Gubby Allen (1902-1989) was an Australian-English cricketer acclaimed for his fast bowling and tactical leadership. He debuted for England in 1924 and later captained the national team in the mid-1930s. During World War II, he served as an officer in the Royal Air Force, balancing military duties with cricket. After the war, Allen became a respected cricket administrator, serving as Chairman of the Marylebone Cricket Club. He played a key role in shaping post-war cricket regulations and international tours. His legacy endures in both sporting achievements and contributions to cricket governance.

Bill Brown (1912-2008) was an Australian opening batsman renowned for his elegant technique. He made his Test debut in 1934 and played 22 matches for Australia, including the undefeated 1948 ‘Invincibles’ tour of England. After his playing career, he served as a selector and contributed to youth coaching programs. His sportsmanship and consistency at the crease earned him respect in international cricket circles. Brown’s legacy endures as one of Australia’s accomplished opening batsmen of the mid-20th century.

Irv Kupcinet began his career as a football end for the Chicago Bears before transitioning into journalism. He wrote 'Kup's Column' in the Chicago Sun-Times for over six decades, becoming a leading voice in city life and politics. Kupcinet was also a pioneer of television talk shows with his program 'At Random', influencing the format of future interview shows. Known for his extensive social network, he connected celebrities, politicians, and athletes through his reporting. Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he left a lasting legacy as both an athlete and media personality.

Bryan Hextall was a standout forward for the New York Rangers from 1934 to 1942. He led the NHL in scoring during the 1942–43 season and was selected as an All-Star multiple times. In 1940, Hextall helped the Rangers win their first Stanley Cup in two decades. Part of the Hextall hockey dynasty, his sons and grandson also played in the NHL. He is remembered for his speed, skill, and sportsmanship on the ice.

Billy Hitchcock debuted with the Boston Braves in 1949, playing as a reliable infielder for five seasons. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching and managed the Detroit Tigers from 1959 to 1960. He later served as general manager and executive for the Atlanta Braves organization. Hitchcock also led successful minor league teams, winning multiple pennants and nurturing young talent. His dedication to baseball spanned over six decades, earning him respect as a player, manager, and executive.

He played eight Test matches for India between 1947 and 1953 and was known for his solid technique and leadership. After retiring, he served as a coach and selector, influencing the next generation of Indian cricketers. Adhikari captained the Northern India domestic side to Ranji Trophy finals and helped develop cricket administration. He remained active in talent development and cricketing affairs until his death in 2003.

Born in 1922, Bauer debuted with the New York Yankees in 1948 and became a mainstay in the outfield. He helped the team win five consecutive World Series championships from 1949 to 1953. After his playing career, he managed the Kansas City Athletics and Baltimore Orioles. Bauer led the Orioles to a World Series title in 1966. Known for his grit and leadership, he was honored in the Yankees' Monument Park. Bauer passed away in 2007, remembered as one of baseball's fiercest competitors.

Jimmy Evert was a prominent American tennis player in the mid-20th century who transitioned into a highly respected coach. He won multiple state championships and represented the United States in international competition. After retiring from the professional circuit, he founded a tennis academy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he coached dozens of junior players. His most famous pupil was his daughter, Chris Evert, whom he guided to a record-setting career and multiple Grand Slam titles. Evert's dedication to player development left a lasting legacy in American tennis.

José Santamaría (born 1929) is a celebrated Uruguayan footballer turned manager. He rose to prominence at Real Madrid, winning multiple European Cup titles as a solid central defender. Switching allegiances to Spain, he earned over 40 caps and was a key part of the Spanish national team in the 1950s. After retiring as a player, Santamaría enjoyed a successful coaching career, managing top clubs and national sides. His tactical acumen and leadership earned him respect both on and off the pitch. He is remembered as one of the finest defenders of his generation. His contributions helped shape the golden era of Real Madrid in the late 1950s.

Nick Bollettieri (1931–2022) was an American tennis coach and innovator. He founded the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Florida, pioneering intensive training for aspiring professionals. His academy produced legends such as Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Monica Seles, and Maria Sharapova. Bollettieri’s rigorous coaching methods and motivational style transformed modern tennis instruction. He authored several books on tennis techniques and sports psychology. Often called the ‘father of modern tennis coaching,’ his influence is felt in tennis around the world. He remained active in coaching and mentoring until his passing in 2022.