December 28

John McDonald 'Jack' Blackham was born in 1854 in Emerald Hill, Victoria. He played for the Australian national team and was known for his exceptional skill behind the stumps. Blackham participated in the first two Test matches ever played by Australia in 1877. His innovative wicket-keeping techniques influenced generations of cricketers. In addition to his cricket career, he worked as a printer and sports journalist. He passed away in 1932, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian cricket.

Alfred Flatow was born in 1869 in Danzig, German Empire. He competed in the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, winning multiple gold medals in gymnastics. Flatow's achievements helped to introduce gymnastics as an Olympic sport. As a Jewish athlete, he faced persecution under the Nazi regime and was deported during World War II. He died in the Theresienstadt concentration camp in 1942. Today, he is remembered both for his athletic prowess and his tragic fate.

Born in 1885, Evans emerged as one of baseball’s most formidable hitters during the Deadball Era. He debuted with the St. Louis Browns in 1908 and later starred for the Cleveland Indians. Known for his keen eye at the plate and aggressive style on the basepaths, he delivered consistently strong offensive performances. Evans’s fiery personality and competitive fire made him a memorable figure both on and off the diamond. After retiring in the early 1920s, he remained connected to the sport as a coach and mentor to younger players. He passed away in 1943, leaving behind a legacy of passion and excellence in America’s pastime.

Born in 1910 in New Zealand, Lovelock excelled in middle-distance running from a young age. He claimed Olympic gold in the 1500 meters at the 1936 Berlin Games, setting a then-world record. He later attended the University of Oxford, balancing academics with athletics. After returning home, he was celebrated as one of New Zealand’s greatest athletes. During World War II, he served with the New Zealand forces in the Royal Air Force, demonstrating bravery and leadership. He died in 1949 following complications from a motorcycle accident, remembered for his extraordinary athleticism and service.

Sal Maglie was born in 1917 in Niagara Falls, New York. He made his MLB debut in 1945 with the St. Louis Cardinals after a standout minor league career. Known for his fierce fastball and aggressive style, he earned the nickname "The Barber" for pitching close to hitters. Maglie played a key role in the New York Giants' 1951 pennant win and the Brooklyn Dodgers' 1955 World Series victory. After retiring as a player, he served as a pitching coach for the New York Mets and other teams, imparting his expertise to younger players. He was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987 and passed away on December 28, 1992.

Born in 1980, Václav Drobný began his career with FK AS Pardubice before moving to top-tier clubs in the Czech Republic and abroad. As a central defender, he was known for his strong tackling, tactical awareness, and aerial ability. Drobný earned caps for the Czech national team and competed in domestic leagues in Germany and Belgium. His leadership on the field made him a respected figure among teammates and fans. His sudden death in 2012 at age 32 was mourned by the football community, highlighting his impact on the sport.

Born in 1936 in Cork, Frankie Walsh rose to prominence as a dynamic hurler, playing as a forward for the Cork senior team. He helped secure multiple Munster and All-Ireland titles during the 1950s and 1960s. After retiring from play, Walsh transitioned to management, leading Cork teams to further provincial and national successes. His deep understanding of the game and motivational leadership earned him acclaim across Ireland. Walsh's contributions left an enduring legacy in the sport until his passing in 2012.

Born in Odesa in 1969, Tsymbalar developed his talent in the youth ranks of Chornomorets Odesa before moving to Spartak Moscow. As a midfielder, he won multiple Russian Premier League titles and became known for his creative playmaking and precise passing. He earned caps for the Soviet Union, the CIS, and Ukraine, representing his country on the international stage. After retiring as a player, Tsymbalar transitioned to coaching, working with youth academies and lower-division teams. His passion for the game and commitment to developing young talents left a mark on Russian and Ukrainian football communities. He passed away suddenly in 2013, remembered for his contributions both on and off the pitch.

Born in 1936 in Austin, Minnesota, Madden began his coaching career at the collegiate level before joining the NFL. Served as head coach of the Oakland Raiders from 1969 to 1978, leading them to victory in Super Bowl XI. Retired from coaching in 1979 with one of the highest winning percentages in NFL history. Transitioned to broadcasting, where his enthusiastic commentary and insights made him a beloved figure on network television. Won 16 Sports Emmy Awards during a broadcast career spanning four decades. Authored several books on football strategy and contributed to analysis programs. Licensed his name to the Madden NFL video game franchise, which became one of the most successful sports gaming series. Died in 2021 at age 85, leaving a lasting impact on both football coaching and sports broadcasting.