September 29

Fidel LaBarba emerged as a teenage boxing prodigy by capturing the flyweight gold medal at the 1924 Paris Olympics at just 17. He turned professional in 1925 and went on to win the world flyweight championship, defending his title in several memorable bouts. After retiring from the ring with an impressive record, he transitioned to sports journalism and covered boxing for major newspapers. LaBarba’s insightful commentary and firsthand experience earned him respect in both the sporting and writing communities. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in recognition of his dual legacy as a champion athlete and chronicler of the sport.

Eddie Tolan, known as the 'Midnight Express,' rose from humble beginnings in Denver to become a track star at the University of Michigan. At the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, he became the first man to win both the 100m and 200m events, setting a new world record in the 100m dash. Tolan’s speed and determination challenged racial barriers in athletics during the interwar years. After retiring from competition, he dedicated himself to education, teaching and coaching in Cleveland. His dual legacy as an Olympic champion and influential educator has inspired generations of athletes.

Oail Andrew ‘Bum’ Phillips began his football journey as a player before transitioning into coaching, where his colorful personality and trademark cowboy hat became iconic. As head coach of the Houston Oilers from 1975 to 1980, he guided the team to consecutive AFC Championship games and helped popularize the ‘Luv Ya Blue’ era. Phillips was admired for his motivational speeches and rapport with players, including legends like Earl Campbell. After coaching the New Orleans Saints, he retired and later published memoirs reflecting on his career. Phillips remains a beloved figure in NFL history for his leadership, charisma, and passion for the game.

Chuck Cooper was a standout guard at Duquesne University before making history as the first African American selected in the NBA Draft in 1950 by the Boston Celtics. He played for the Celtics, Milwaukee Hawks, and Fort Wayne Pistons over a seven-year career, helping integrate professional basketball. Cooper was known for his tenacious defense and playmaking skills. After retiring, he became a successful businessman and civic leader in Pittsburgh, contributing to youth sports programs and community development.

Pete Elliott played quarterback at the University of Michigan before launching a distinguished coaching career. He served as head coach at institutions including the University of California, Riverside; the University of Illinois, where he won the Big Ten title in 1963; and the University of Miami. Renowned for his offensive innovations and player mentorship, Elliott compiled an overall record that earned him Athletic Director and Coach of the Year honors. After coaching, he remained active in sports administration and philanthropic efforts supporting student-athletes.

Harold Andrew 'Hal' Trosky Jr. followed in the footsteps of his Hall of Famer father by pursuing a career in professional baseball. He made his Major League debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1956 and returned for a stint in 1958. Although his time in the big leagues was brief, he demonstrated the pitching talent and competitive spirit valued in his family. After retiring from baseball, he remained involved in his community through coaching and mentoring young athletes. His connection to one of the game's storied families adds a unique chapter to baseball history.

Jim Baxter was a legendary Scottish footballer renowned for his elegant dribbling, precise passing, and match-winning flair. He spent the prime of his career at Rangers FC, where he won multiple league titles and Scottish Cups. Baxter earned 34 caps for Scotland and played a pivotal role in his country's World Cup campaigns, famously outplaying England's Bobby Moore in a memorable 1967 victory. His confidence and style made him a fan favorite, and he remains one of Scotland's most iconic sports figures. In recognition of his contributions, Baxter has been inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame.

Born on September 29, 1940 in Derby, England, Billy Cobb began his professional career with Nottingham Forest in 1958. Over the course of the 1960s, he made over 150 league appearances, scoring vital goals and earning a reputation as a reliable striker. Cobb later joined Birmingham City and then Colchester United, where he continued to influence matches with his work rate and finishing. After retiring from professional play, he remained involved in football through coaching youth teams and local clubs. His contributions to English football during a competitive era have earned him lasting respect among fans and peers.

Born on September 29, 1942 in Sedrina, Italy, Felice Gimondi emerged as one of cycling’s great all-rounders. In 1965, he won the Tour de France in his first attempt, a feat matched by few in history. He captured the Giro d’Italia three times (1967, 1969, 1976) and the Vuelta a España in 1968, completing the Triple Crown of Cycling. Gimondi also triumphed in classic races such as the Milan–San Remo and the Giro di Lombardia. After retiring in 1979, he remained active in the sport, mentoring young talent and working in team management. He passed away in 2019 following a boating accident, leaving a storied legacy in international cycling.

Sebastian Coe, Baron Coe, is a British politician and former Olympic athlete. As a middle-distance runner, he won gold medals in the 1500 meters at the 1980 Moscow and 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and set multiple world records. After retiring from competition, Coe served as a Member of Parliament for the Conservative Party and played a key role in securing London’s bid for the 2012 Olympics. He later became President of World Athletics, influencing global track and field policy. Coe is celebrated for his leadership in sports and public service.