December 28

Ted Lyons was a celebrated right-handed pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, enjoying a 21-season career from 1923 to 1946. Known as 'Sunday School' Lyons for his devout faith and preference for pitching on Sundays, he amassed 260 wins and led the American League in victories twice. His consistent control and durability made him one of the era's most reliable starters, often pitching more than 250 innings per season. After retiring, Lyons served as a coach and manager, sharing his knowledge with future generations. In 1955, he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding performance and character. Lyons remains an enduring icon in White Sox history and American baseball lore.

Wil van Beveren was born in Haarlem, Netherlands, and became one of the country's top sprinters in the 1930s. He represented the Netherlands at the 1936 Berlin Olympics in the 100m and 200m events. Van Beveren set multiple national records and won several Dutch national sprint titles. After retiring from competition, he transitioned to journalism, writing for leading Dutch newspapers and sports magazines. His articles provided in-depth analysis of athletics and Olympic competitions. Van Beveren's dual career bridged elite sports performance and media, influencing how athletics were covered. He remained active in the Dutch sports community, mentoring young athletes and promoting track and field.

Alfred "Tufty" Mann was born in 1920 and represented South Africa in 15 Test matches between 1947 and 1949. Known for his skillful fast-medium bowling, he took 53 wickets at an average of 29.60. Mann was a key member of the 1947 tour of England and the 1948 series against Australia. He also contributed useful runs as a lower-order batsman. After retiring from playing, he coached young cricketers and promoted the sport in South Africa until his death in 1952.

Steve Van Buren was born in 1920 in La Ceiba, Honduras, and moved to the United States as a child. He played for Louisiana State University before joining the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles in 1944. Van Buren led the league in rushing four times and was pivotal in the Eagles' 1948 and 1949 championship wins. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965, the first Latino to be so honored. His powerful running style set new standards for the halfback position. Van Buren passed away in 2012 but remains one of the Eagles’ all-time greats.

Alex Wall Wistert was born in 1920 and starred as an All-American tackle at the University of Michigan. He earned two NFL championships with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1948 and 1949. A durable lineman, he was named to the Pro Bowl twice and later coached at several colleges. Wistert was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1968 for his outstanding collegiate career. His legacy extended through his brothers, who also earned All-American honors at Michigan. He passed away in 2016, remembered as a pioneer of professional football excellence.

Born in 1926, Donald Carr made his mark as a first-class cricketer for Nottinghamshire, captaining the side from 1956 to 1962. His disciplined batting and leadership led to numerous victories in county cricket. After retiring from playing, Carr served as an umpire and referee in Test matches and One Day Internationals, influencing the professionalization of cricket officiating. He also held administrative roles with the International Cricket Council, helping to modernize the sport’s regulations. Carr’s career spanned over five decades, and he is remembered for his dedication to fair play and the development of cricket worldwide.

Born in 1929 in Winnipeg, Terry Sawchuk began his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings in 1950, winning the Stanley Cup four times during his career. Known for his acrobatic and fearless style, he set a record of 103 career shutouts, a mark that stood for decades. Sawchuk played for four NHL teams over 21 seasons and was MVP of the league in 1952 and 1953. Despite his success, he faced personal challenges and injuries throughout his life. He was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1971, cementing his legacy as a goaltending pioneer.

Harry Howell was born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1932 and made his NHL debut with the New York Rangers in 1952. Renowned for his durability, he played 1,123 regular-season games primarily as a defenseman. Howell won the James Norris Memorial Trophy in 1967 and was a stalwart on the Rangers’ blue line for over a decade. After retiring as a player, he coached the Los Angeles Kings and mentored young talent. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1979, Howell’s leadership and sportsmanship made him a respected figure in hockey. He passed away in 2019, remembered as one of Canada’s all-time great defensemen.

Rudi Faßnacht was born in Germany in 1934 and played as a defender for clubs such as Karlsruher SC. Transitioning to coaching, he managed several teams, most notably VfB Stuttgart from 1971 to 1973. Under his leadership, Stuttgart secured promotion to the Bundesliga and established itself as a competitive side. He later coached Eintracht Frankfurt and contributed his tactical expertise to Swiss football. Faßnacht was known for his disciplined approach and innovative strategies. His contributions helped shape German club football in the post-war era. He passed away in 2000 and is remembered as a respected coach and former player.

Born in 1939 in Glasgow, Frank McLintock rose through the ranks at Leicester City before joining Arsenal in 1964. As club captain, he led Arsenal to the League and FA Cup Double in 1971, a remarkable achievement in English football. After an eleven-year tenure with Arsenal, he played for Stoke City and Queens Park Rangers, bringing leadership and defensive solidity. Transitioning to management, McLintock took charge at clubs including Leicester City and Fulham, emphasizing discipline and teamwork. He later worked as a television pundit, sharing his insights on the modern game. Known for his commanding presence, McLintock remains a respected figure among Arsenal fans and the wider football community. His career exemplifies dedication and passion for the sport.

Born in 1941 in Punjab, Intikhab Alam emerged as a talented leg-spin bowler for Pakistan in the 1960s and 1970s. He represented his country in 39 Test matches, claiming over 100 wickets with his deceptive spin and guile. Alam captained the national side, leading Pakistan to memorable victories and showcasing his tactical acumen. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, guiding Pakistan's national team and domestic squads to success. His mentorship helped nurture a new generation of cricketers, including future international stars. Alam's contributions were recognized with honors from cricket boards and players worldwide. He remains a respected figure for his enduring impact on Pakistani cricket.