November 03

Jim McCormick was one of the first Scottish players to compete in Major League Baseball during the 1880s. He pitched for teams such as the Buffalo Bisons and Chicago White Stockings, achieving notable win totals in his early career. McCormick later transitioned to managing, leading minor league clubs and mentoring young players. His transatlantic roots made him a trailblazer for international athletes in the American pastime. He finished his career with a reputation for durability and competitive spirit.

Harry Staley pitched in the National League during the 1880s and early 1890s, playing for teams like the Pittsburgh Alleghenys and Boston Beaneaters. Known for his fastball and competitive drive, he recorded impressive win totals in short seasons. Staley also contributed offensively as a batter, a common practice in the era of two-way players. After retiring, he remained involved in baseball at the local level. His career reflects the formative years of professional baseball in the United States.

Albert Goldthorpe (1871–1943) was a pioneering English rugby league footballer and manager. He spent the majority of his career at Hunslet, where he became a prolific try-scorer and skilled tactician. His leadership on and off the field helped establish Hunslet as one of the top clubs in the sport's early professional era. Goldthorpe captained his club through numerous victories and was known for his versatility, playing in multiple positions. After retiring as a player, he continued to influence the game through coaching and team management. His contributions to rugby league were recognized long after his playing days, and he remains an iconic figure in the sport's history.

Born in 1899, Ralph Greenleaf became one of the most successful professional three-cushion billiards players in history. He won the U.S. Professional Billiards Championship 20 times, showcasing his innovative shot-making and strategic play. Greenleaf's charismatic exhibitions and public appearances popularized billiards as a spectator sport across America. He toured extensively, offering instruction and entertainment in vaudeville-style performances. Despite struggling with personal issues, his skill and showmanship cemented his reputation as a legend of the game. Greenleaf's techniques and flair continue to influence modern cue sports.

Lionel Hitchman (1901–1969) was a Canadian ice hockey defenceman who spent his entire NHL career with the Boston Bruins. He debuted in the 1926–27 season and quickly became known for his sturdy defensive play and leadership on the ice. Hitchman helped the Bruins win Stanley Cup championships in 1929 and 1930. In 1932 he became one of the first defensemen to wear the captain's 'C' for an NHL team. He retired in 1933 after recording 189 games and 11 goals. Hitchman was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1964 in recognition of his contributions to the sport.

Bronko Nagurski (1908–1990) was a Canadian-American athlete celebrated for his extraordinary power in football and wrestling. He starred as a fullback and tackle for the NFL’s Chicago Bears, winning the 1933 championship. Nagurski’s combination of size and speed made him one of the game’s earliest superstars. After retiring, he transitioned to professional wrestling, capturing multiple heavyweight titles. He later returned to football as a coach, influencing the next generation of players. Nagurski was inducted into both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

Kick Smit (1911–1974) was a Dutch football forward and manager known for his scoring prowess. He played mainly for HFC Haarlem, becoming the first Dutch player to score at the FIFA World Cup finals in 1934. Smit earned 29 caps for the Netherlands national team, netting 26 goals. After retiring, he coached Haarlem and served as an assistant coach for the national side. He set a national scoring record that stood for decades and remains a legend in Dutch football. His early achievements helped raise the profile of the sport in the Netherlands.

Bob Feller made his Major League Baseball debut in 1936 at the age of 17, becoming one of the youngest pitchers in history. He was an eight-time All-Star and led the American League in strikeouts seven times. Feller threw three no-hitters, including opening day no-hitters in 1940 and 1946. He interrupted his career to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1941 to 1945. After returning to baseball, he reached 266 career wins and set multiple pitching records. Following retirement, Feller worked as a broadcaster and remained active in the baseball community until his death in 2010. His legacy endures as one of baseball's all-time great pitchers.

George Yardley excelled at Stanford University before joining the NBA in 1950 with the Fort Wayne Pistons. A prolific scorer and versatile forward, he led the league in scoring in the mid-1950s. Yardley became the first NBA player to surpass 2,000 points in a season, setting a new standard. He was selected as a four-time All-Star and contributed significantly to his teams' successes. After retiring, he pursued a career in engineering and remained active in his local community.

Alfonso Orueta began his sporting career as a talented midfielder in Chile's top football league. He transitioned to management after retiring as a player, leading several clubs in the national circuit. Orueta entered politics and was elected mayor of La Serena, focusing on urban development and youth sports programs. His dual careers in sports and public service made him a respected figure in his community. He remained active in promoting football and civic engagement until his passing in 2012.

Born in 1930 in England, Brian Robinson turned professional in the 1950s. He became the first British cyclist to finish the Tour de France in 1955 and later claimed his nation's first Tour stage victory. Robinson also secured wins in the Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré and other European races, showcasing his versatility. He represented Britain in multiple World Championships and international tours. After retiring, he remained involved in the cycling community as a mentor and ambassador. Robinson passed away in 2022, remembered as a pioneer of British road racing.

Born in 1932 in Kenora, Ontario, Gerry Ehman began his hockey career in junior leagues before making his NHL debut with the Detroit Red Wings. He also played for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, appearing in over 200 games. Known for his scoring ability and strong two-way play, he recorded 125 points in his NHL career. After retiring as a player, Ehman became a respected scout for several NHL teams, including the Edmonton Oilers, where he played a role in building their championship rosters. He was inducted into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame and remained involved in the sport until his passing in 2006.