September 17

David Munson was born in 1884 in the United States. He specialized in middle-distance track events, particularly the 1500 meters. He represented his country in national championships and regional competitions. His running style was noted for its endurance and strategic pacing. He contributed to the popularity of athletics during his competitive years. After retiring from competition, he remained involved in sports as a coach. He passed away in 1953, remembered for his achievements on the track.

Willie Mosconi was born in 1913 and dominated the sport of straight pool during his career. He set a record high run of 526 balls in 1954, a benchmark that stood for decades. Mosconi won fifteen world pocket billiards championships and authored instructional books that shaped generations of players. He also appeared in films and served as a technical advisor on the film The Hustler. Known for his precision, sportsmanship, and suave style, he earned the nickname 'Mr. Pocket Billiards.' Mosconi remained active in the billiards community until his death in 1993, and his influence endures in the sport.

Vitas Gerulaitis was born in 1954 in New York City to Lithuanian immigrant parents. He turned professional in 1971 and quickly rose through the ranks with his quick reflexes and aggressive serve-and-volley game. Gerulaitis captured 25 singles titles, including his first Grand Slam at the 1977 Australian Open. He reached the finals of the French Open and Wimbledon, and represented the United States in the Davis Cup. Known for his witty personality and spirited on-court presence, he became one of the sport's most popular figures. After retiring, he worked as a tennis commentator and coach. Tragically, Gerulaitis died of carbon monoxide poisoning in 1994, leaving a legacy of passion and flair.

Lucien Victor (1931–1995) was a Belgian cyclist known for his performances in road racing during the 1950s. Born in Belgium, he emerged as a competitive rider, participating in national and international events. Victor represented Belgium at major races, showcasing endurance and tactical skill on challenging courses. He earned respect within the cycling community for his dedication and competitive spirit. After retiring from active competition, he remained involved in the sport, supporting and mentoring younger riders. His career contributed to Belgium's rich cycling heritage.

Andriy Husin was a Ukrainian professional footballer renowned for his tenacious midfield play and leadership on the field. He spent the majority of his club career at Dynamo Kyiv, winning multiple league titles and domestic cups. A key member of the Ukraine national team, he earned over 70 caps and represented his country at the FIFA World Cup. After retiring as a player, Husin transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant manager and mentor at top Ukrainian clubs. His tactical insight and passion for the game influenced a generation of Ukrainian players. Husin's sudden passing in 2014 was widely mourned by the football community.

Wakachichibu Komei was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler who competed in the top makuuchi division during the 1960s. He was admired for his formidable strength, disciplined training regimen, and unwavering fighting spirit. Throughout his career, he faced many of the era's leading wrestlers and earned respect for his consistent performances. After retiring from competition, he remained involved in the sumo world as an elder, coaching younger rikishi at his stable. His contributions to the sport helped preserve sumo's traditions and inspired future generations of wrestlers. He passed away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the dohyo.

Dettmar Cramer (1925-2015) began his career as a midfielder before transitioning into coaching, where he left a lasting impact on European football. As manager of Bayern Munich from 1975 to 1977, he guided the team to back-to-back European Cup victories, cementing his reputation as a tactical innovator. Cramer also served as an assistant coach for national teams, including West Germany's 1974 World Cup–winning side, and managed clubs and national teams in Asia and North America. Known as 'Football Professor' by fans and players alike, he was renowned for his emphasis on fitness, discipline, and technical skill. Throughout his career, he promoted the global growth of the sport through coaching clinics and consultancy roles. His contributions shaped modern coaching methods and influenced generations of football managers worldwide.

Bahman Golbarnezhad (1968-2016) was a pioneering Iranian Paralympic cyclist who represented his country with distinction. Overcoming significant physical challenges, he competed in international events and became a symbol of determination and national pride. At the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games, he participated in the men’s C4 road race, where a severe crash led to fatal injuries. His untimely death marked the first athlete fatality in Paralympic competition history and prompted widespread tributes from the global sports community. Throughout his career, Golbarnezhad inspired many by demonstrating resilience and a passion for cycling despite adversity. He was celebrated in Iran for his athletic achievements and his role in raising awareness for Paralympic sports. His legacy continues to encourage athletes with disabilities to pursue competitive sports.

Sigvard 'Sigge' Parling (1936-2016) was a distinguished Swedish footballer celebrated for his versatility as a defender and midfielder. He began his career with Åtvidabergs FF before moving to IFK Norrköping, where he won multiple Allsvenskan titles and garnered national recognition. Parling earned 38 caps for the Sweden national team and was a key member of the squad that finished as runners-up at the 1958 FIFA World Cup on home soil. Known for his stamina, tactical awareness, and reliability, he later played abroad in Italy and the United States, contributing to the global reach of Swedish football talent. After retiring as a player, Parling ventured into coaching and youth development, shaping future generations of footballers. His contributions to Swedish football earned him a lasting place in the nation’s sporting history.

Bobby 'The Brain' Heenan (1944-2017) was a legendary figure in professional wrestling, renowned for his sharp wit, charismatic heel persona, and managerial acumen. Over a career spanning five decades, he managed some of the sport’s biggest stars, including Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and Andre the Giant, helping shape their on-screen success. Heenan's skillful mic work and comic timing made him one of the most entertaining personalities in wrestling history, earning him the nickname 'The Brain.' Beyond managing, he served as a color commentator for the WWF (now WWE) and WCW, where his humorous observations and barbed remarks captivated audiences. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004 in recognition of his contributions to the industry. Even after retirement, Heenan remained a beloved figure among fans and peers, remembered for his impact on the golden era of wrestling. His legacy endures through countless memorable moments and his influence on wrestling entertainment.