September 26

Jack Tresadern was born on 26 September 1890 in Somerset, England. He played as a reliable full-back in the English Football League, including stints at West Ham United. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management, leading teams such as Bournemouth and Clapton Orient. Tresadern was known for his strong defensive approach and tactical insight. He guided his clubs through the interwar period, adapting to changes in the game. He died in 1959, remembered for his enduring commitment to English football both on and off the field.

Emilio 'Millito' Navarro played professional baseball in the Negro leagues during the 1920s and 1930s. He was one of the first Puerto Rican athletes to break into American Negro league baseball. After his playing career, he worked as a scout and coach, promoting the game in Puerto Rico. Navarro witnessed the integration of Major League Baseball and its impact on Latin American players. He lived to be 105 years old, sharing stories of early baseball history. His longevity made him a celebrated figure in Puerto Rican sports.

Karl Rappan began his career as a forward in Austrian club football. He transitioned to management and became famous for developing the 'verrou', or bolt, system. The strategy emphasized strong defense and quick counter-attacks. Rappan led the Swiss national team to surprising results in the 1930s and 1940s. His tactical innovations laid the groundwork for the later 'catenaccio' style. He is remembered as one of football's most influential coaches.

Alberto 'Bep' van Klaveren represented the Netherlands at the 1928 Summer Olympics. He captured the lightweight boxing gold medal on home soil in Amsterdam. Van Klaveren turned professional and fought across Europe during the 1930s. He became a national sports hero and was nicknamed 'the Dutch Bonzo.' After retiring, he worked as a boxing coach and promoter in the Netherlands. His Olympic victory remains a highlight of Dutch sporting history.

Bill France Sr. began his career as a mechanic and driver at the Daytona Beach Road Course. He founded the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) in 1948. Under his leadership, NASCAR grew into one of America's premier motorsports organizations. He helped establish iconic events like the Daytona 500 and built the Daytona International Speedway. France advocated for safety standards, rules consistency, and commercial growth of the sport. His vision turned stock car racing into a national phenomenon.

Frank Brimsek was a pioneering American ice hockey goaltender who played primarily for the Boston Bruins. Nicknamed "Mr. Zero" for his outstanding shutout performances, he won the Vezina Trophy in back-to-back seasons and led the Bruins to the Stanley Cup Finals. Brimsek was the first American inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966. He set numerous NHL records for shutouts and games played by a goalie in his era. After retiring, he remained active in promoting hockey in the United States and served as a mentor to young goaltenders.

Achille Compagnoni was an Italian mountaineer and accomplished skier who is famed for making the first successful ascent of K2 in 1954 alongside Lino Lacedelli. Born in 1914, he served as a ski instructor in the Alpini mountain troops during World War II and developed exceptional climbing skills. His ascent of K2, the world’s second-highest peak, was a milestone in mountaineering history. Compagnoni authored multiple books recounting his high-altitude expeditions and pioneering technical climbing methods. His legacy endures in the alpine community, inspiring generations of climbers worldwide.

Born in 1923, Hugh Griffiths showed early promise as a cricketer before pursuing law. He was called to the bar and built a respected legal practice, earning appointment as Queen's Counsel. In 1971, he was appointed to the High Court and later promoted to the Court of Appeal in 1981. In 1984, he was made a Lord of Appeal in Ordinary and created a life peer as Baron Griffiths. On the bench, he delivered influential judgments in administrative and commercial law. After retiring in 1989, he remained active in legal circles and advisory roles. He passed away in 2015, remembered for his dual legacy in sport and the judiciary.

Dussault developed his skating skills as a youth before breaking into the NHL in 1948. He played three seasons as a forward, known for his speed and versatility on the ice. After leaving the league, he spent several years in the minor leagues across North America. He later coached youth hockey programs, mentoring the next generation of players. Dussault passed away in 2012 at age 87, remembered for his contributions to the sport.

Born Martin David Robinson in Arizona, Robbins began performing as a teenager on local radio. His breakthrough came in 1959 with the hit ballad 'El Paso', which topped country and pop charts. He recorded dozens of albums blending country, rockabilly, and Western themes. In addition to music, Robbins pursued acting in films and competed as a NASCAR driver. He won multiple awards, including two Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Robbins's smooth baritone and storytelling lyrics left a lasting impact on country music. He passed away in 1982 following complications from heart surgery.

Enzo Bearzot began his professional career as a defender in the late 1940s, playing for clubs including Internazionale and Torino. He earned 35 caps for Italy and served as the national team captain for several years. After retiring as a player, Bearzot became head coach of Italy in 1975. Under his leadership, Italy won the 1982 FIFA World Cup, showcasing tactical discipline and creative flair. He was admired for his calm demeanor, deep understanding of the game, and ability to unite his squad. Bearzot remains celebrated as one of Italy's greatest football managers and a legendary figure in the sport.

Wilford White rose to prominence as a star fullback for Arizona State University in the early 1950s. He led the nation in rushing yards in 1954 and earned consensus All-American honors. White set multiple school records and was celebrated for his powerful running style. He played briefly in the NFL before retiring from professional football. After his playing days, he remained involved in the sport and inspired future generations of athletes. His legacy endures at Arizona State as one of the university's greatest football players.