November 14

Norman Brookes was an Australian tennis player born in 1877 whose groundbreaking victories reshaped the sport. In 1907, he became the first non-British competitor to win Wimbledon, a feat he repeated in 1914. His strategic serve-and-volley style set new standards on grass courts. After retiring from competition, Brookes served as president of the Lawn Tennis Association and the International Lawn Tennis Federation. The Norman Brookes Challenge Cup at the Australian Open is named in his honor. He passed away in 1968, leaving a lasting legacy in tennis history.

Larwood rose from Yorkshire coal-town beginnings to become one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history. His fierce bowling technique made him a key member of the English team touring Australia in 1932–33. The Bodyline tactics he employed caused controversy for targeting batsmen's bodies but secured England’s victory. Disputes over the series led to his departure from English cricket and eventual emigration to Australia. He continued coaching and sharing his expertise, leaving a complex legacy in the sport.

Mabel Fairbanks was the first African-American figure skater to tour with the Ice Capades, overcoming segregation in the skating world. Denied access to many ice rinks in her youth, she taught herself to skate and later performed professionally. As a coach, she mentored legends like Tai Babilonia and Linda Fratianne, shaping the sport's evolution. Fairbanks was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame in recognition of her pioneering career. Her resilience and dedication opened doors for skaters of all backgrounds.

John Bromwich was born in 1918 in Sydney and became one of Australia’s leading tennis players. He won the Australian Championships singles title in 1939 and 1946. Bromwich excelled in doubles, securing multiple Grand Slam doubles championships. He represented Australia in Davis Cup, contributing to the 1939 victory. Known for his powerful left-handed serve and backhand, he influenced future generations. After retiring, he coached promising players and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1984.

Bart Cummings (1927–2015) was an Australian thoroughbred racehorse trainer renowned for winning the Melbourne Cup a record 12 times. He began his career as a jockey before transitioning to training, where his strategic skill and deep understanding of horses set him apart. Cummings trained multiple Australian Racing Hall of Fame inductees and earned more than 7,000 winners overall. His horses won major races both in Australia and internationally, cementing his status as a racing icon. He was honored with the Order of Australia and received lifetime achievement awards in the racing community. Cummings' passion for the sport and mentorship of other trainers shaped generations of racing professionals. His legacy is celebrated at Flemington Racecourse each spring.

Shirley Crabtree (1929–1997), known to fans as Big Daddy, was an English professional wrestler who became one of the UK's most recognizable sports entertainers. Debuting in the 1950s, he rose to fame with his imposing size, charismatic presence, and characteristic red singlet. Crabtree headlined events at the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Arena, drawing massive crowds. He held multiple British wrestling championships and was central to the sport's popularity during the 1970s and 1980s. After retiring, he made occasional television appearances and served as a mentor to younger wrestlers. Big Daddy's persona transcended the ring, making him a cultural icon of British pop culture. He was posthumously inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Jimmy Piersall (1929–2017) was an American Major League Baseball center fielder renowned for his athleticism and outspoken personality. He played for teams including the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians, earning two All-Star selections and a Gold Glove award. Piersall's candid battle with bipolar disorder was chronicled in his memoir Fear Strikes Out and adapted into a feature film. After retiring as a player, he enjoyed a successful career as a sportscaster and public speaker. His frank discussions about mental health made him an influential advocate beyond sports. Piersall's colorful life and career continue to inspire conversations about athlete wellness and resilience.

David Mackay (1934–2015) began his professional career with Heart of Midlothian, winning the Scottish league title in 1957.\nHe moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 1959, capturing the Double in 1961 before helping secure the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1963.\nRenowned for his tenacity and tactical intelligence, Mackay earned over 20 caps for Scotland.\nAfter retiring as a player, he managed several clubs, notably leading Derby County to the English First Division title in 1975.\nHis impact on British football endures through his achievements and mentorship of younger players.

Murray Oliver (November 14, 1937 – November 30, 2014) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player and coach noted for his playmaking skills. He spent ten seasons in the National Hockey League with the Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Minnesota North Stars. Oliver recorded over 700 career points during the Original Six era. After retiring as a player, he served as an assistant coach and scout for several NHL teams, including the North Stars. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame.

Mike Katz (born November 14, 1944) is an American former bodybuilder and collegiate football player. He began his athletic career playing football before turning to bodybuilding in the late 1960s. Under the mentorship of renowned trainers, he quickly rose through the amateur ranks. He competed in national contests such as Mr. America and international events like Mr. Universe. He was one of the pioneering African American athletes in professional bodybuilding. His competitive success and charismatic presence helped broaden the sport's appeal. After retiring from competition, he remained active as a coach and advocate for fitness. His legacy continues to inspire bodybuilders and athletes worldwide.

Brett Lunger (born November 14, 1945) is an American former racing driver. He competed in Formula One between 1975 and 1978, participating in 36 Grands Prix. Lunger also raced in endurance events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona. He graduated from Princeton University and is one of the few Formula One drivers with an Ivy League degree. Lunger narrowly escaped death during the 1976 German Grand Prix following Niki Lauda's fiery crash. After retiring from professional racing, he remained involved in motorsports safety initiatives. He authored an autobiography detailing his experiences on and off the track. Lunger's blend of athletic skill and academic background made him a unique figure in motorsports history.

Nat Young (born November 14, 1947) is an Australian surfer, author, and cultural icon. He won the World Surfing Championship in 1966 and 1967, pioneering progressive surf techniques. Young's aggressive longboard style and charismatic personality reshaped the sport worldwide. He has authored several books on surfing and environmental issues, including 'Surf Culture'. Young advocated for coastal conservation and served as an ambassador for ocean protection. He continues to surf professionally and mentors emerging talents in the surfing community. His influence spans both athletic innovation and literary contributions to surf culture.