September 17

Rube Foster was born in Calvert, Texas, in 1879 and became a star pitcher renowned for his powerful curveball. He founded the Chicago American Giants in 1910 and led them to multiple Negro League championships. In 1920, he organized the Negro National League, serving as its president and advocating for the rights of Black players. Foster’s leadership and vision laid the foundation for organized Black baseball during segregation. Despite health challenges later in life, he remained a central figure until his death in 1930. His contributions were recognized with a Hall of Fame induction in 1981.

Earl Webb was born in 1897 in Jacksonville, Alabama, and debuted in the major leagues with the Boston Red Sox in 1925. In 1931, he set a still-standing MLB record with 67 doubles in a single season while batting .333. Webb played for several teams including the Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and New York Giants over his ten-year career. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and scout, contributing to player development in the minor leagues. Webb finished his playing career with a .291 batting average and 184 home runs. He remained involved in baseball until his death in 1965, remembered for his remarkable doubles achievement.

Hughie Critz was born in 1900 in Nashville, Tennessee, and made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 1924. He led National League second basemen in fielding percentage in 1927 and was prized for his reliability. Critz hit over .290 in four seasons, contributing to the Reds’ competitive teams of the era. He was traded to the New York Giants in 1930 and played there until 1935, appearing in the 1933 All-Star Game. Known for his work ethic and clubhouse leadership, he finished his career with a .285 batting average. After retiring, Critz managed in the minor leagues and remained active in baseball until his death in 1980.

Karel Miljon was a Dutch heavyweight boxer who competed in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. He won the bronze medal after a series of commanding bouts. Miljon dominated the national boxing scene in the 1920s with his powerful style. His success brought attention to Dutch boxing on the international stage. After retiring, he remained involved in the sport as a trainer and mentor.

Minanogawa Tōzō was a prominent Japanese sumo wrestler who achieved the rank of Yokozuna. Born in what is now Nagano Prefecture, he rose quickly through the ranks in the 1920s. As the 34th Yokozuna, Minanogawa recorded numerous tournament victories. He was admired for his powerful, yet graceful, sumo style. After retirement, he served as an elder and coach in the Japan Sumo Association.

William Grut (1914–2012) was a Swedish athlete who excelled in the modern pentathlon, comprising five disciplines. He secured the individual gold medal at the 1948 Olympic Games, becoming a national hero. Grut also competed in shooting, fencing, swimming, equestrian, and running events, demonstrating versatile skills. After retiring from competition, he served as a coach and official, promoting pentathlon in Sweden. His dedication contributed to the sport's development, inspiring future generations of athletes. He was honored by the Swedish Sports Confederation for his lifelong commitment to athletics.

George Blanda was an American professional football quarterback and placekicker whose career spanned 26 seasons in the NFL and AFL. Born in 1927 in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, he played college football at the University of Kentucky under coach Bear Bryant. Blanda entered the AFL at age 34 and led the Houston Oilers to two league championships in the early 1960s. Known for his versatility, he was the league's leading scorer in his late 40s and famously led the Oakland Raiders to a comeback victory in 1970. By retiring at 48, he became the oldest active player in NFL history, a record that still stands. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981, remembered for his longevity and clutch performances.

Stirling Moss was an English racing driver widely regarded as one of the greatest Formula One competitors never to win a World Championship. He won 212 out of 529 races between 1948 and 1962, showcasing exceptional skill and versatility across different categories. Moss achieved victories in prestigious events such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Mille Miglia. Known for his sportsmanship and aristocratic demeanor, he earned the nickname "Mr. Motor Racing." After retiring due to a serious crash in 1962, he became a popular motorsport commentator and ambassador. His fearless driving style and class made him an enduring icon in the world of motor racing.

Bulldog Brower was an American professional wrestler who competed in various territories across the United States and Canada. With his imposing physique and brawling in-ring style, he became a popular draw in promotions such as the National Wrestling Alliance. Brower held multiple regional championships and engaged in high-profile rivalries throughout his career. After retiring from active competition, he contributed to the wrestling world as a trainer and mentor to younger athletes. His legacy remains in the colorful characters and physicality he brought to the sport. Brower passed away in 1997, leaving behind fond memories among fans and colleagues.

Claude Provost was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who spent his entire NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens from 1955 to 1970. Renowned for his speed, defensive prowess, and playmaking abilities, he helped the Canadiens secure six Stanley Cup championships. Provost was selected to multiple NHL All-Star Games and remained a consistent presence on the Canadiens' checking lines. After retiring, he was honored by the franchise and remembered as one of its most dependable two-way forwards. His contributions to one of hockey's greatest dynasties have left a lasting legacy in the sport. Provost passed away in 1984, and his achievements continue to be celebrated by fans.

Maureen Connolly, nicknamed ‘Little Mo’, was an American tennis player who dominated the sport in the early 1950s. In 1953, at just 18 years old, she became the first woman to win all four Grand Slam singles titles in a single calendar year. Connolly captured nine Grand Slam singles championships before her career was cut short by a horseback riding accident in 1954. She later contributed to tennis as a coach and mentor, helping young players develop their skills. Connolly's grace on and off the court made her a beloved figure in the tennis community. Her groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of athletes.

Nigel Boocock was born in Wakefield, England and became one of Britain’s top speedway riders. He began his professional career with the Coventry Bees in 1956 and won the British League Riders' Championship in 1969. Boocock represented England and Great Britain in multiple Speedway World Team Cups, contributing to championship victories. In the late 1970s, he settled in Australia, where he continued to influence the sport as a mentor and coach. He retired from competitive racing in the early 1980s but remained active in the speedway community until his death in 2015.