August 16

George Scott was an English forward active in the early 20th century, contributing to the sport’s growing popularity. Though detailed records from the period are scarce, he was known for his pace and goal-scoring ability. Scott played for clubs in the Football League, earning recognition for his skill on the field. His promising career was cut short by his untimely death in 1916 at the age of 31. He is remembered as part of the formative years of professional football in England.

George Herman 'Babe' Ruth Jr. revolutionized baseball with his unmatched hitting prowess, setting the career record of 714 home runs. He began as a standout pitcher for the Boston Red Sox before becoming the New York Yankees' superstar outfielder. Nicknamed 'The Bambino' and 'The Sultan of Swat', his charismatic personality made him an American icon of the Roaring Twenties. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and ambassador for the sport, helping popularize baseball nationwide. Ruth's record stood for almost four decades, and he remains one of the most celebrated athletes in history.

Earl Averill was born in 1902 in Snohomish, Washington, and debuted with the Cleveland Indians in 1929. He quickly established himself as one of the American League’s premier hitters, earning six consecutive All-Star selections. Averill led the league in batting average and runs batted in multiple seasons. Nicknamed 'The Earl of SnoHomish', his smooth swing and consistent power endeared him to fans. He concluded his twelve-year MLB career with a lifetime batting average over .300 and more than 200 home runs. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975, his achievements remain celebrated by baseball enthusiasts. After retiring, he contributed to youth sports programs in his hometown, fostering future generations of athletes.

Ronnie Aird was born in 1902 in Hampshire and made his first-class debut in 1922 for the county team. As a right-handed batsman and off-spin bowler, he was a mainstay for Hampshire through the 1930s. After retiring, he served as secretary and later president of Hampshire County Cricket Club. Under his leadership, the club modernized its facilities and strengthened its youth development programs. Aird also held key positions in the Marylebone Cricket Club, influencing the sport’s governance. His dedication to cricket administration helped shape county and national cricket structures. He passed away in 1986, remembered for his significant contributions on and off the field.

Pat O'Connor (1925–1990) was a pioneering New Zealand-born professional wrestler who rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. After training under Karl Pojello, he became known for his technical skill and sportsmanship in rings across North America and Europe. O’Connor captured the prestigious NWA World Heavyweight Championship twice, cementing his status among the sport’s elite. Beyond his in-ring achievements, he dedicated himself to training the next generation of wrestlers, opening a successful wrestling school in St. Louis. His influence shaped the careers of many future champions. Inducted into multiple wrestling halls of fame, O’Connor is remembered for elevating the art of wrestling with his disciplined style and mentorship. He died suddenly in 1990, leaving a legacy of excellence in the professional wrestling world.

John Roseboro (1933-2002) was a professional baseball catcher who played 14 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He won two World Series championships (1959, 1963) and earned four All-Star selections. Roseboro was celebrated for his strong defensive skills, leadership behind the plate, and timely hitting. He played a central role in handling pitching staffs and mentoring young pitchers. In 1965, he was famously struck by a bat in a violent on-field incident with Juan Marichal. After retiring, he served as a coach and community ambassador, promoting youth baseball. His contributions to the sport have been remembered for both his on-field prowess and enduring influence on the game.

Ivan Hlinka (1950-2004) was a celebrated Czech ice hockey right winger who competed in three Winter Olympics and won a silver medal in 1976. He earned four IIHF World Championship titles and played professionally in Czechoslovakia before joining the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins and Vancouver Canucks. In 1998, as co-head coach of the Czech national team, he led them to a historic Olympic gold medal in Nagano, ending the Soviet dominance in ice hockey. Hlinka also coached in the NHL, Europe, and internationally, known for his strategic acumen and leadership. His sudden death in a car accident in 2004 shocked the hockey world. He is remembered as a trailblazer for Czech athletes abroad and a national sports icon.

Robert Quiroga (1969-2004) was an American professional boxer who held the IBF super bantamweight title from 1994 to 1995. Hailing from Texas, he turned pro in 1987 and quickly became known for his aggressive style and knockout power. Quiroga defended his world title against top contenders before losing it in a close decision. Over his career, he amassed a record of 29 wins (20 by knockout) and 4 losses, earning respect for his resilience and skill. After retiring, he remained active in the boxing community, training young fighters in his hometown. His life was tragically cut short in 2004. Quiroga is remembered for his contributions to the sport and his role as a mentor to aspiring boxers.

Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1916, Havelange competed as a water polo player in the 1936 Olympics. He practiced law and built a successful career as a businessman before entering sports administration. In 1974, he was elected president of FIFA, serving until 1998 and expanding football’s global reach. Under his leadership, FIFA added new tournaments and increased sponsorship, but later his administration faced corruption allegations. He remained an influential figure in international sports until his death in 2016.