September 04

Born in 1889, James 'Howdy' Wilcox began his racing career in the Midwest during the 1910s. He achieved his greatest success by winning the prestigious Indianapolis 500 in 1919. Known for his fearless driving style and mechanical insight, he recorded numerous top finishes in national competitions. Wilcox drove for leading teams of the era, helping to popularize auto racing in the United States. Despite the dangers of early motorsport, he remained a respected figure until his untimely death in 1923.

Otto Glória was a Brazilian footballer who later gained acclaim as a manager. He played as a defender before beginning a prolific coaching career in Europe and South America. In Portugal, Glória led Benfica to multiple league titles and cup victories in the 1950s. He managed the Portuguese national team to the semifinals of Euro 1984. Known for his disciplined training methods, he revolutionized team preparation. Glória also coached clubs in Brazil, France, and Switzerland, leaving a global legacy. His contributions helped modernize football tactics, earning him respect worldwide.

Hank Greenberg was one of Major League Baseball’s greatest sluggers, playing primarily for the Detroit Tigers. He led the American League in home runs four times and won back-to-back MVP awards in 1935 and 1940. Greenberg was one of the first Jewish sports superstars, breaking barriers in American athletics. He temporarily left baseball to serve in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Upon returning, he continued to excel and guided the Tigers to two World Series titles. Renowned for his strength and consistency, he retired with a .313 batting average and 331 home runs. Greenberg was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1956.

Bill Bowes was an English fast bowler who played for Yorkshire and the national team in the 1930s. Known for his pace and aggression, he took over 1,600 first-class wickets in his career. He was England’s leading bowler on the 1932-33 Ashes tour of Australia. After retiring as a player, Bowes served as a respected cricket coach and mentor. His expertise shaped a generation of bowlers in Yorkshire and beyond. Honored for his dedication to the sport, he remained connected to cricket until his passing. Bowes is remembered as one of England’s true fast-bowling greats.

Georg Gawliczek was a skilled German footballer who played during the 1940s and 1950s before transitioning to coaching. As a forward, he was known for his agility, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts. After retiring from playing, Gawliczek embarked on a managerial career, leading several clubs in Germany's top leagues. His tactical insights and leadership helped teams compete at high levels during the post-war period. Gawliczek was respected for his dedication to player development and his innovative coaching methods. He influenced a generation of footballers and left a mark on German football's revival after the war. His contributions to the sport are remembered by fans and players alike.

Born in Greenwood, Mississippi, Ford excelled at Mississippi Valley State University, where he set NCAA scoring records. After a standout college career, he became a star in European leagues, leading the EuroLeague in scoring twice. He played for top clubs such as Peristeri and Olympiacos, earning multiple domestic scoring titles. Ford was named to the All-EuroLeague Second Team in 2002 and remembered for his relentless offensive skills. His achievements made him one of the most celebrated American players abroad during his era. After battling leukemia, he passed away at age 33, leaving a lasting legacy as a scorer.

Born in Kitchener, Ontario, Norman turned professional in 1949 and developed a unique, unorthodox swing. Nicknamed 'Pipeline Moe,' he recorded over 55 tournament victories across Canada and the United States. Despite limited PGA Tour appearances, his accuracy off the tee earned admiration from fellow golfers worldwide. Norman was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. His minimalistic swing and remarkable consistency continue to influence golf instruction today. In his later years, he devoted himself to course design and teaching, inspiring generations of players.

Born in Treviglio, Italy, Facchetti spent his entire club career at Inter Milan, making over 600 appearances. He revolutionized the full-back position with his attacking runs and technical skill. Facchetti captained Inter to four Serie A titles and the European Cup in 1964. Internationally, he earned 94 caps for Italy, winning UEFA Euro 1968 and finishing runner-up at the 1970 World Cup. After retiring as a player, he served as president of Inter Milan, guiding the club to renewed success. His legacy endures as a pioneer of the modern full-back role in football.

Born in Eufaula, Oklahoma, Selmon excelled at the University of Oklahoma, winning the Outland Trophy. He was the first draft pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1976 and became their defensive cornerstone. Selmon earned three Pro Bowl selections and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1979. He retired as the Buccaneers’ all-time sack leader and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995. After football, he served as a university athletic director and community advocate. Selmon’s legacy endures through the Lee Roy Selmon Athletic Center in Tampa.

George Savitsky played college football at the University of Pennsylvania before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 1947. As an offensive tackle, he anchored the Eagles' line that secured NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. Renowned for his strength and durability, he appeared in over 100 games during his nine-season career. Savitsky earned praise from coaches and teammates for his consistent play and leadership on the field. After retiring in 1955, he pursued a business career while staying active in Philadelphia sports circles. His contributions helped establish the Eagles as a dominant team in the late 1940s. Savitsky's legacy remains part of the franchise's celebrated history.

Daniele Seccarecci began weight training in his teens and quickly rose through Italy's bodybuilding ranks. In 2007, he claimed the Amateur Mr. Universe title at the World Bodybuilding Federation competition. Seccarecci went on to compete in prestigious professional events, including Mr. Olympia. Known for his impressive size and conditioning, he inspired a new generation of Italian bodybuilders. Beyond competition, he worked as a personal trainer and fitness coach, sharing his expertise with clients. Seccarecci's dedication to the sport and charismatic presence made him a prominent figure in European bodybuilding. His sudden passing in 2013 at age 33 was widely mourned by the fitness community.

Stanislav Stepashkin rose through the ranks of Soviet boxing, training with the Dynamo sports society in Moscow. At the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, he captured the lightweight gold medal with a series of decisive victories. He also won the European Amateur Boxing Championships in 1965, establishing himself as one of the era's top amateur fighters. Stepashkin retired from competition in 1968 and transitioned into coaching, mentoring young boxers at the national level. His expertise contributed to the continued success of Soviet boxing on the world stage. Recognized for his technical skill and strategic acumen, he remained active in the sport for decades. Stepashkin's achievements and dedication left a lasting impact on boxing in Russia and beyond.