September 06

Born in 1910, Walter Giesler was a pioneering figure in American soccer. He played at the national level during the 1930s, showcasing his skills on the field. After retiring as a player, he became a respected referee, officiating key regional and international matches. Later, he transitioned to coaching, guiding youth and adult teams to develop the sport domestically. Throughout his career, he advocated for the professionalization of soccer in the U.S. and laid groundwork for future generations. He passed away in 1976, leaving a legacy as one of America’s early soccer ambassadors.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Harry Danning debuted with the New York Giants in 1933. He quickly established himself as a durable catcher, known for his defensive skills and batting prowess. Danning was selected to four consecutive All-Star teams from 1938 to 1941. He played in four World Series with the Giants, contributing key hits in crucial moments. After retiring as a player in 1942, he remained in the game as a coach and scout, mentoring young talent. His leadership and knowledge of the game left a lasting impact on baseball before his death in 2004.

Born in 1913 in Rio de Janeiro, Jorge Leônidas da Silva became one of Brazil’s first global soccer stars. Nicknamed the “Black Diamond,” he dazzled fans with exceptional dribbling and aerial skills. Leônidas is credited with popularizing the bicycle kick, mastering the acrobatic move in matches. He was the top scorer at the 1938 FIFA World Cup, helping Brazil to a third-place finish. His club career spanned top Brazilian teams, where he won multiple state championships. Leônidas’s creative style influenced generations of footballers in Brazil and around the world. He retired in 1951 and remained involved in sports as a coach and mentor. He passed away in 2004, leaving a lasting legacy in football history.

Edward Joseph Oliver was born in 1915 in Rumford, Maine, and turned professional in the late 1930s. He quickly gained a reputation for his prodigious driving distance off the tee. Oliver recorded multiple PGA Tour wins over his career, showcasing consistency and skill. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, interrupting his golfing career. After the war, he returned to competition, adding more titles and top finishes. He was known among peers for his sportsmanship and dedication to practice. He died in 1961, remembered as one of his era’s longest hitters.

George Mann was born in 1917 in Westminster, London, into a cricketing family. He played first-class cricket for Middlesex as an all-rounder, excelling with bat and ball. In 1948, he captained England on their tour of South Africa, leading the team in Test matches. Mann was praised for his leadership qualities and tactical acumen on the field. After retiring from playing, he served as a cricket administrator and advocate for the sport. Outside cricket, he worked in the family brewing business and held civic roles in Middlesex. He passed away in 2001, remembered as one of England’s distinguished cricket captains.

John 'Jock' Wallace Jr. was born in 1935 and began his career as a talented goalkeeper in Scottish football. He transitioned to management and led Rangers F.C. to multiple league titles and domestic cups in the 1970s and 1980s. Wallace was known for his charismatic leadership, motivational skills, and fiery passion on the touchline. He later managed clubs including Leicester City and Motherwell, earning admiration for his tactical insight. Wallace’s legacy lives on in Scottish football through his enduring impact on players and fans.

Janusz Kurczab was born in 1937 and excelled as a competitive fencer in Poland, showcasing disciplined technique. His passion for adventure led him to mountaineering expeditions in the Himalayas and European ranges. Kurczab contributed to the development of Polish climbing methods and inspired fellow alpinists. He balanced his sporting pursuits with a spirit of exploration, demonstrating resilience and leadership. He passed away in 2015, leaving a legacy in both the fencing piste and the world’s great peaks.

Richard Anthony Hutton (born September 6, 1942) is a former English professional cricketer known for his elegant batting style. The son of legendary cricketer Sir Leonard Hutton, he made his debut for Yorkshire County Cricket Club in 1962. Hutton was a key member of Yorkshire's County Championship-winning sides throughout the 1960s. He made his Test debut for England in 1971 against India and played three Test matches. After retiring from playing, he served as a coach and selector, contributing to the development of young talent. Hutton's cricketing legacy is marked by his technique and cricketing heritage.

Ronald Bruce Boone (born September 6, 1946) is a retired American professional basketball player and long-time broadcaster. He began his career in the American Basketball Association with the Los Angeles Stars in 1967, later playing for the Utah Stars and Spirits of St. Louis. Boone set an ABA/NBA record by playing in 1,041 consecutive regular-season games over ten seasons. After retiring in 1978, he became a color commentator for the Utah Jazz, a role he held for more than 30 years. Boone was named to the ABA All-Time Team in 1997. His consistency and dedication make him one of basketball's true ironmen.

Roger Michael Knight (born September 6, 1946) is a former English cricketer and educator. He represented Kent County Cricket Club as a right-handed batsman from the mid-1960s to early 1970s. After retiring from professional cricket, Knight earned a degree in mathematics and pursued a teaching career. He taught at several schools while also serving as a cricket coach, nurturing young players. Knight later held administrative roles in cricket development, including directing cricket operations at the Marylebone Cricket Club. His dual career in sport and education highlights his dedication to mentoring the next generation.

Born in 1947 in Hampshire, Rioch began his playing career at Luton Town before moving to Aston Villa and Manchester City. He won the League Cup with Aston Villa in 1975 and earned a cap for the England national team. After retiring as a player, Rioch turned to management, leading Middlesbrough to promotion and an FA Cup final. He later managed Arsenal from 1986 to 1995, where he laid the groundwork for the club's future success. Known for his disciplined approach and tactical acumen, he remains respected in English football circles.

Born in Leningrad in 1952, Kazachyonok played as a midfielder for Zenit Leningrad and Dinamo Minsk. He was part of the Zenit squad that won the Soviet Top League title in 1984. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching youth and senior teams across Russia. Kazachyonok managed Zenit, Dynamo St. Petersburg, and other clubs, focusing on developing young talent. He passed away in 2017, remembered for his commitment to football both on and off the pitch.