October 14

Joseph Start was a prominent 19th-century baseball player and manager, one of the sport's earliest stars. He began his career in 1860 with the Brooklyn Atlantics and became known for his defensive skills at first base. Start earned the nickname ‘Old Reliable’ for his consistency and leadership on the field. He played professionally for over a decade, including time with the Philadelphia Athletics and Troy Haymakers. After retiring as a player, he managed several teams and helped shape early baseball strategy. Start was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame for his contributions to the game. His legacy is celebrated as part of baseball's formative years.

Born in 1872 in Wimbledon, he formed a legendary doubles partnership with his brother Laurence, capturing four consecutive Wimbledon doubles championships from 1897 to 1900. A versatile athlete, he also reached the singles final at Wimbledon in 1902 and secured a gold medal at the 1900 Paris Olympics. Known for his powerful serve and strategic court play, he helped popularize tennis in Britain. After retiring from competition, he served as a tennis administrator and promoter of the sport. He passed away in 1910, leaving a legacy as one of Britain's early tennis greats.

Born in 1882 in England, Parker played for Leicestershire as a right-arm bowler and lower-order batsman. After his playing career, he became a respected coach and umpire, overseeing matches in domestic competitions. His dedication to developing young talent helped shape the next generation of English cricketers. He was known for his sportsmanship and knowledge of the game. Parker passed away in 1959, leaving behind a legacy in English county cricket.

Learco Guerra was a celebrated Italian road cyclist known for his powerful riding style and endurance. Nicknamed 'The Human Locomotive,' he dominated Italian races in the 1930s, winning the Giro d’Italia and multiple stages of the Tour de France. After retiring from competition, Guerra became a respected team manager, nurturing young talent and promoting cycling across Europe. His leadership helped Italy secure victories in international races. Guerra’s legacy endures in the cycling world as a pioneer who blended athletic excellence with mentorship.

Arthur Justice was an influential figure in Australian rugby league, known for his versatility on and off the field. As a player, he represented New South Wales and excelled in key matches during the 1920s. Transitioning to coaching, Justice led his teams to several premierships, applying tactical insights and leadership skills. Later, he served as an administrator, shaping league policies and nurturing grassroots talent. Justice’s lifelong dedication contributed significantly to the growth and professionalism of rugby league in Australia.

Bernd Rosemeyer was a German racing driver who became one of the leading Grand Prix competitors in the mid-1930s. Born in 1909, he joined the Auto Union team and quickly demonstrated exceptional skill and fearlessness behind the wheel. In 1936, Rosemeyer won the European Drivers' Championship, finishing ahead of rivals from Mercedes-Benz. His daring driving style and string of victories made him a national celebrity in Germany. In 1938, while attempting to break the speed record on a public highway, Rosemeyer tragically lost control of his car and was killed in the ensuing crash. He is remembered as one of auto racing's early superstars and a pioneer of speed. His legacy endures in motorsport history.

John Wooden was an American basketball player and coach renowned for his record-setting tenure at UCLA. Born in 1910, he won two national championships as a player at Purdue University before embarking on a coaching career. From 1948 to 1975, Wooden led UCLA to ten NCAA titles, including seven in a row from 1967 to 1973, establishing him as one of the greatest coaches in sports history. He developed the 'Pyramid of Success,' a philosophy emphasizing character, teamwork, and discipline. Wooden's coaching style and leadership principles have influenced athletes and leaders beyond basketball. After retiring, he continued to teach and write about leadership until his death at age 99 in 2010.

Born in Purcell, Oklahoma in 1914, Harry Brecheen earned the nickname "The Cat" for his agile left-handed pitching. He starred for the St. Louis Cardinals throughout the 1940s, most memorably winning three games to secure the 1946 World Series championship. Over a 13-year career, he compiled a 151–109 record with a stellar 1.968 earned run average, placing him among baseball's elite hurlers. After retiring in 1956, Brecheen became a pitching coach, mentoring future generations of players. His strategic mindset, calm presence on the mound, and dedication to the game left a lasting legacy in Major League Baseball. He passed away in 2004, celebrated as one of the sport's most effective and respected pitchers.

Born in 1918 in Sydney, Thelma Coyne Long dominated Australian tennis in the 1930s and 1940s. She claimed 19 Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles throughout her career. Long served as captain of Australia's Federation Cup team, leading them to victory in international competitions. Her graceful playing style and fierce competitiveness earned her a place in the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Beyond her on-court success, she inspired future generations of Australian women in sport. She passed away in 2015, remembered as one of her country's greatest tennis icons.

Born in 1918, Doug Ring made his Test debut for Australia in 1946 as a talented leg-spin bowler. Over 11 matches, he took 35 wickets with clever variations that troubled top batsmen. After retiring from cricket, Ring became a respected sportscaster, bringing expertise to radio broadcasts. His analytical insights and engaging commentary popularized cricket journalism in Australia. Ring's dual impact as both player and broadcaster enriched the nation's cricket culture. He died in 2003, leaving a legacy on the field and in the commentary box.

Yvon Durelle was born in 1929 in Baie Sainte-Anne, New Brunswick, and earned the nickname 'The Fighting Fisherman' during his prolific boxing career. He competed as a light heavyweight, winning numerous regional titles and becoming a national favorite in the 1950s. In 1958, Durelle nearly captured the world title, losing a close decision to champion Archie Moore. After retiring from boxing, he transitioned to professional wrestling, where he became a celebrated performer throughout Canada. Durelle’s athleticism and charisma made him a pioneer in Canadian combat sports. He passed away in 2007, leaving a legacy as one of Canada’s most beloved fighters.

Born in Utrecht in 1936, Hans Kraay Sr. began his professional career with DOS and later played for Feyenoord, showcasing strong defensive skills. After retiring as a player in the 1960s, he transitioned into management, taking charge of top Dutch clubs and guiding them to domestic successes. Renowned for his tactical acumen and leadership, Kraay influenced a generation of Dutch footballers. Beyond coaching, he became a respected football analyst on television, sharing insights with fans nationwide. His lifelong dedication to the sport left a lasting legacy in Dutch football before his passing in 2017.