October 29

Wilfred Rhodes was born in 1877 and became one of cricket's most enduring figures. He played for Yorkshire and the England national team, excelling as a left-arm spinner and reliable batsman. His first-class career spanned five decades, from 1898 to 1937, a record in English cricket. Rhodes also served as a coach, sharing his expertise and passion for the game. He helped Yorkshire win multiple County Championships and contributed to England's Test successes. He retired with over 40,000 first-class runs and 4,000 wickets, cementing his legendary status.

John DeWitt was born in 1881 and made his mark both on the football field and in athletics. As a guard for the Princeton Tigers, he was named an All-American in 1904. DeWitt also competed in the hammer throw, representing the United States in early 20th-century competitions. His dual talents showcased the era's multi-sport athletes. He later contributed to sports as a coach and mentor to younger athletes. He passed away in 1930, remembered for his athletic versatility.

Victor Hochepied (1883–1966) was a French swimmer and water polo player. He was active in aquatic sports during the early 20th century. He competed in freestyle swimming events and team water polo matches. Hochepied participated in both national and international competitions. Known for his adaptability between individual and team aquatic disciplines. His athletic career contributed to the growth of water sports in France.

Billy Walker (1897–1964) was an English footballer known for his prolific scoring. He played as an inside forward, most notably for West Bromwich Albion. Walker spent the majority of his career with the Baggies, becoming a club icon. His goal-scoring prowess made him one of the top forwards of his era. After retiring as a player, he had a brief stint in football management. Walker's legacy endures among West Bromwich Albion supporters as one of their greatest players.

Born in Minnesota in 1913, Al Suomi had a brief stint in the National Hockey League before dedicating his career to officiating games at the amateur and high school levels. His passion for ice hockey spanned over eight decades, during which he became a respected figure in his local community. Known for his commitment to fair play and mentorship of young players, Suomi remained active in hockey circles well into his later years. At the time of his death at age 100, he was celebrated as one of the oldest living former NHL participants.

Born in Delft, she emerged as one of the Netherlands' top female athletes after World War II. At the 1948 London Olympics, she won gold in the 4×100 meter relay alongside her teammates. She also competed individually in the 80-meter hurdles and the long jump, reaching finals in both events. Nationally, she claimed multiple Dutch championships across sprint and jumping disciplines. Her versatility and speed made her a pioneer for female athletes in the post-war era. After retiring, she remained involved in athletics and inspired future generations of Dutch competitors.

Frank Sedgman emerged as one of the world’s top tennis players in the early 1950s. He won five Grand Slam singles titles, including back-to-back Australian Championships in 1950 and 1952. Sedgman formed a formidable doubles partnership and also captured several doubles and mixed titles. His powerful serve-and-volley style influenced generations of players. After retiring, he contributed to the sport as a coach and ambassador.

Bertha Brouwer was one of the Netherlands’ leading female sprinters in the early 1950s. She competed in the 100 meters and relay events at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki. Brouwer won national championships and set multiple Dutch records during her career. Her athletic achievements inspired a generation of Dutch track and field athletes. After retiring from competition, she remained active in sports administration and youth coaching.

Dick Garmaker was a standout guard-forward at the University of Minnesota before joining the NBA. He played professionally from 1955 to 1961, making two All-Star appearances. Garmaker helped the Minneapolis Lakers and New York Knicks reach postseason play with his scoring and defense. After retiring as a player, he coached and mentored young athletes at the collegiate level. His contributions to basketball are remembered by fans and players alike for his skill and sportsmanship.

Born in Worcester in 1935, David Allen became one of England's leading off-spin bowlers. He made his first-class debut for Worcestershire in 1953 and quickly established himself as a prolific wicket-taker. Allen earned five Test caps for England during the 1962 tour of Pakistan, showcasing his guile on spin-friendly pitches. Over a 17-year career, he claimed more than 2,000 first-class wickets and contributed valuable lower-order runs. After retiring in 1970, he transitioned to coaching and selection, helping to develop future cricket talents. His dedication and mastery of spin bowling left a lasting impact on English county cricket.

Born in 1935, Eddie Hopkinson became a stalwart goalkeeper for Bolton Wanderers, making over 500 appearances between 1952 and 1970. Renowned for his agility and shot-stopping ability, he played a key role in Bolton's 1958 FA Cup victory. His consistency and brave style earned him six caps for the England national team in the late 1950s. Hopkinson was celebrated for his leadership on the pitch and his commitment to the club. After retiring, he served as a coach and remained a beloved figure in the Bolton community. His legacy endures as one of Bolton Wanderers' greatest goalkeepers.

Born on October 29, 1949, Kieron Baker is an English former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He made numerous appearances in the Football League during the 1970s, earning praise for his agility and shot-stopping skills. Known for his dedication and consistency, Baker contributed significantly to his teams' matchday squads. After retiring from professional play, he remained involved in football through coaching and mentoring young players. His career reflects the spirit of English lower-league football.