December 17

Charles Winckler (1867-1932) represented Denmark at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris. He earned a gold medal with the Danish tug of war team and medaled in both discus throw and shot put. Known for his strength and versatility, Winckler was also a national champion in multiple athletic disciplines. His achievements exemplified the early Olympic ideal of all-around athleticism. After retiring from competition, he remained active in Denmark's sporting community, leaving a proud legacy in national sports history.

Otto Graham was a legendary American football quarterback renowned for his success with the Cleveland Browns. Born in Waukegan, Illinois, he starred at Northwestern University before joining the All-America Football Conference in 1946. Graham led the Browns to ten championship games in ten seasons, winning seven titles. After the AAFC merged with the NFL, he added three more league championships and earned multiple MVP honors. Following his playing career, he coached at the Coast Guard Academy and the U.S. Naval Academy. Graham was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965 and is remembered as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Larry Sherry was an American professional baseball pitcher celebrated for his clutch relief work. Born in Los Angeles in 1935, he debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1958. In the 1959 World Series, Sherry earned three wins and was named Series MVP for his outstanding performances. He played nine seasons in Major League Baseball and recorded over 50 career saves. After retiring as a player, Sherry served as a pitching coach and scout for multiple MLB teams. He was praised for his competitive spirit and ability to perform under pressure. Sherry passed away in 2006, remembered as one of the most formidable relievers of his era.

Sammy Baugh was a Hall of Fame quarterback who transformed professional football with his passing prowess. Born in Temple, Texas, in 1914, he starred at Texas Christian University before joining the Washington Redskins in 1937. Baugh led the NFL in passing four times and introduced a new level of arm strength and accuracy to the quarterback position. He also excelled as a defensive back and punter, showcasing unprecedented versatility. After a 16-year playing career, he coached at Hardin–Simmons University and served as an assistant with the Redskins. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963, Baugh’s contributions helped establish the modern passing game. He remained a respected figure in football history until his death in 2008.

Dave Smith was an American professional baseball pitcher who played for the Houston Astros and Milwaukee Brewers from 1972 to 1986. He was known for his durability and control, leading the National League in saves in 1982 and 1983. After retiring as a player, Smith served as a coach in MLB, mentoring young pitchers. He recorded over 200 career saves and made two All-Star appearances. His legacy includes contributions to pitch development and leadership on and off the field.

Chris Henry was an American professional football wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2005 to 2009. He played college football at West Virginia University, leading the nation in kickoff return average. Henry was known for his speed, agility, and contributions on special teams. His promising career was tragically cut short after a fatal accident involving a vehicle. He finished his NFL tenure with over 1,700 receiving yards and left a lasting impact on Bengals fans.

Walt Dropo was a rare two-sport professional athlete who excelled in baseball and basketball. At the University of Connecticut, he set the NCAA single-season scoring record in 1947. Dropo won the American League Rookie of the Year Award with the Boston Red Sox the same year. He later played for the Detroit Pistons during the NBA's inaugural season. His dual-sport success remains a unique feat in American sports history.

Ralph Coates was an English professional footballer renowned for his time at Tottenham Hotspur. He joined the club in 1968 and scored the winning goal in the 1971 League Cup final. Coates earned seven caps for the England national team between 1973 and 1975. Known for his skillful crossing and pace, he contributed to both domestic and European competitions. After retiring, he remained involved in coaching and youth development. His legacy endures among Spurs supporters as one of the club’s iconic wingers.

Born in 1957, Frank Pastore played as a pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds for a decade, appearing in postseason games and earning recognition for his competitive spirit. After retiring from baseball, he launched a popular Christian radio program where he discussed faith, sports, and personal growth with a wide audience. Pastore’s thoughtful commentary and personal stories resonated with listeners across the nation. He also authored books on spirituality and culture, bridging the worlds of athletics and faith. Pastore died in 2012 following a car accident, leaving a legacy of inspiration and hope.

Cornelis "Conny" van Rietschoten (1926–2013) was a renowned Dutch yachtsman best known for his leadership in ocean racing. He is the only skipper to have won the prestigious Whitbread Round the World Race on two occasions (1977–78 and 1981–82). Born in Rotterdam, he combined tactical skill with technical innovation to dominate offshore yacht racing. Van Rietschoten's achievements advanced yacht design and professionalized the sport, inspiring generations of sailors. He later served as mentor and advocate for maritime safety and continued to influence competitive sailing until his death.

Hal Brown (1924–2015) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher best known for his control and deceptive curveball. Nicknamed 'Prince Hal', he played for the Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Browns, Chicago White Sox, and Baltimore Orioles between 1951 and 1964. Brown compiled a 79–80 record with a 3.51 ERA, finishing second in the American League ERA in 1957. After his playing career, he served as a pitching coach for the Houston Astros and continued mentoring young pitchers. His dedication to the game and sportsmanship made him a respected figure in baseball circles.