New Zealand rugby player
New Zealand rugby player
One of New Zealand's early rugby union players, instrumental in popularizing the sport across the country.
James Allan was a pioneering rugby union player in New Zealand during the late 19th century. He played as a forward in regional competitions, demonstrating a robust and physical style that soon caught the attention of selectors. Allan participated in some of the earliest interprovincial matches, helping to lay the foundations for the national game's structure. His commitment to the sport extended beyond the field as he supported local clubs and mentored younger players. Although detailed records of his career are scarce, his contributions helped shape rugby's growth in its formative years in New Zealand.
1860
James Allan
10th Prince of Sulmona, Italian racing driver, mountaineer, and politician
10th Prince of Sulmona
Italian racing driver
mountaineer
and politician
Italian prince, politician, racing driver, and mountaineer known for adventurous spirit and public service.
Scipione Borghese, 10th Prince of Sulmona, was a member of Italy's historic aristocracy who embraced both public duties and daring pursuits. As an Italian senator, he engaged in political affairs during a period of national change. Borghese also competed in early automobile races, showcasing his passion for speed and innovation. His mountaineering expeditions in the Alps reflected a love of exploration and a drive to push personal limits. Beyond his adventurous lifestyle, he supported social causes in his native region and patronized cultural initiatives. His multifaceted career exemplified the blend of tradition and modernity in early 20th-century Italy.
1871
Scipione Borghese, 10th Prince of Sulmona
Australian sprinter
Australian sprinter
Pioneering Australian sprinter and one of the country's first Olympic medalists.
Stan Rowley was among the inaugural group of athletes representing Australia at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where he earned three medals in short-distance events. His achievements included bronze medals in the 60 metres, 100 metres, and 200 metres sprints, marking a milestone in Australia's sporting history. Rowley also contributed to a team event that secured an additional medal for his nation. Known for his explosive starts and consistent speed, he helped lay the groundwork for future generations of Australian track and field competitors. After retiring from competition, Rowley remained active in athletics administration and coaching. His legacy endures as a symbol of early Olympic success for Australia.
1876
Stan Rowley
English-Greek racing driver and engineer
English-Greek racing driver and engineer
Douglas Hawkes was an English-Greek racing driver and engineer who competed in European Grand Prix events during the 1920s.
Born to British and Greek parents, Hawkes combined his passion for mechanics with a talent for motorsport. He raced for various teams across Europe, earning recognition for his skill behind the wheel and technical expertise. In addition to driving, Hawkes worked on engine design and chassis development, contributing to early innovations in automotive engineering. His dual role as driver and engineer helped bridge the gap between competition and technical progress. Hawkes's career reflects the adventurous spirit of early 20th-century motorsports.
1893
Douglas Hawkes
Estonian wrestler and coach
Estonian wrestler and coach
Estonian wrestler and coach who played a key role in developing wrestling in his country.
Anton Koolmann was a prominent Estonian wrestler in the early 20th century. He competed in national and international competitions representing Estonia. After retiring from competition, he devoted himself to coaching future generations of wrestlers. His training methods and dedication helped raise the level of the sport in his homeland. Koolmann remained active in wrestling until his death in 1953.
Anton Koolmann
Indian cricketer
Indian cricketer
Pioneering Indian cricketer and the first player to score a Test century for India.
Lala Amarnath was one of the earliest stars of Indian cricket, making his Test debut in 1933. He became the first Indian batsman to score a century in Test cricket during a match against England. Amarnath captained the national team and inspired future generations of players. His all-round skills with bat and ball made him a versatile talent. Amarnath remained connected to the sport as a coach and mentor until his death in 2000.
1911
Lala Amarnath
American football player and coach
American football player and coach
Legendary American college football coach who won six national championships with Alabama.
Paul 'Bear' Bryant is regarded as one of the greatest coaches in college football history. He played guard at the University of Alabama before embarking on a legendary coaching career. Bryant led the Alabama Crimson Tide to six national championships and 13 conference titles. Known for his trademark houndstooth hat and tough demeanor, he influenced generations of players and coaches. Bryant's coaching philosophies and winning record cemented his status as a college football icon.
1913
Bear Bryant
American football player and coach
American football player and coach
Iconic American football coach who led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl championships and innovated modern defensive strategies.
Tom Landry played in the NFL before becoming the first head coach of the Dallas Cowboys in 1960. Over his 29-year coaching career, he amassed 270 wins and guided the team to five Super Bowl appearances, winning two titles. Landry introduced the "flex defense" and emphasized precision and discipline. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990. Landry's calm demeanor and strategic mind made him one of the most respected figures in football history.
Tom Landry
American baseball player
American baseball player
American Major League Baseball infielder who played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was part of their 1955 World Series–winning team.
Eddie Miksis debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 and served as a versatile utility player throughout his 13-season career. He contributed to the Dodgers' first World Series title in 1955 and later played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs. Known for his solid defense and clutch hitting, Miksis totaled over 1,000 hits in his career. After retiring as a player, he remained involved in baseball through coaching and scouting roles.
1926
Eddie Miksis
Australian rugby league player and coach
Australian rugby league player and coach
Australian rugby league legend who represented his country, coached at the top level, and became a respected referee.
Keith Holman starred as a halfback for the Newtown Jets and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs before earning selection for New South Wales and Australia in the 1950s. After retiring as a player, he coached at state and club levels, emphasizing skill development and sportsmanship. Holman also served as a Rugby League referee and was honored in the National Rugby League Hall of Fame. His lifelong dedication to the sport made him one of Australia's most influential rugby league figures.
1927
Keith Holman
Venezuelan baseball player and manager
Venezuelan baseball player and manager
Venezuelan baseball player and manager who contributed to the sport both on and off the field.
Luis García was a Venezuelan professional baseball outfielder who starred in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League and played abroad in various minor leagues. After retiring as a player, he managed multiple teams in Venezuela, guiding them to championship contention. García was known for his strategic acumen and dedication to developing young talent. His passion for the game helped elevate the profile of baseball in Venezuela. He remained a respected figure in Venezuelan baseball until his passing in 2014.
1929
Luis García
Egyptian footballer, manager, and actor
Egyptian footballer
manager
and actor
Egyptian footballer and actor who became president of Al Ahly Sporting Club.
Saleh Selim was a legendary Egyptian football striker who starred for Al Ahly and the national team in the 1950s and 1960s, scoring numerous goals and winning multiple league titles. After retiring from playing, he transitioned to acting, appearing in popular Egyptian films. He later served as president of Al Ahly Sporting Club, overseeing its growth into one of Africa’s most successful football institutions. Selim was admired for his leadership both on and off the field, guiding Al Ahly to continental triumphs. A cultural icon in Egypt, he combined sporting excellence with artistic talent until his death in 2002. His legacy remains deeply ingrained in Egyptian sports and entertainment.
Saleh Selim