December 30

Born in 1874 in France, Jean Collas was a talented rugby union player and tug of war competitor. He was part of France's rugby squad at the 1900 Summer Olympics and helped secure a gold medal. Collas also competed in tug of war events, showcasing his strength and teamwork skills. His athletic achievements contributed to France's sporting reputation at the turn of the 20th century. Collas' legacy lives on as a pioneer of French rugby and an Olympic champion.

Charles "Sonny" Liston was born in 1932 and rose from a troubled youth to become one of boxing's most feared heavyweights. He won the world heavyweight title in 1962 by defeating Floyd Patterson in a first-round knockout. Liston's powerful jab and knockout punch defined his fighting style throughout his career. He lost the title back to Patterson in a 1963 rematch and was defeated by Muhammad Ali in 1964. Liston's life was marked by controversies both in and out of the ring, and he died under mysterious circumstances in 1970. His impact on boxing endures as a testament to his raw power and presence.

Violette Cordery was born in London in 1900 and became a pioneering figure in motorsport. In 1926, she set a 10,000-mile endurance record in an Austin Seven across Europe. Cordery competed successfully at Brooklands and in rally events, challenging gender norms of her time. She held multiple world records for distance and speed by women drivers. Cordery later worked as a motoring correspondent and remained active in automotive circles. She is remembered for her contributions to early female participation in competitive racing.

Sam Muchnick was a pioneering American professional wrestling promoter best known for co-founding the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) in 1948. Born in 1905, he served as NWA president for over thirty years, helping to establish the organization as the central governing body of the sport. Operating out of St. Louis, he promoted historic matches that set the standard for regional and national wrestling events. Muchnick's emphasis on fair competition and collaboration among promoters shaped the modern professional wrestling industry. He was honored posthumously with induction into multiple wrestling halls of fame, cementing his legacy.

Des Renford was an Australian long-distance swimmer who achieved international recognition through his repeated English Channel swims. Born in 1927, he completed nineteen solo crossings between 1971 and 1985, setting endurance records and raising funds for charitable causes. Renford's determination and resilience in challenging waters inspired fellow athletes and swimming enthusiasts. He actively supported local swimming clubs and mentored young swimmers, promoting the sport in Australia. His legacy endures in annual swimming events and scholarships established in his honor.

Born in 1940, Eddie Barlow became one of South Africa's leading all-rounders in the 1960s. Renowned for his powerful batting and accurate medium-pace bowling, he amassed impressive records in Test matches before international isolation due to apartheid. After retiring, Barlow coached emerging players and contributed to South African cricket's revival post-isolation. He was admired for his competitive spirit and tactical acumen, shaping teams both on and off the field. His legacy endures in the development of a new generation of cricketers and the strengthening of cricket in South Africa.

Michel Plasse began his NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens in the late 1960s and was part of their 1971 Stanley Cup-winning roster. In 1971, he made history by becoming the first goaltender in league history to have his name credited with a goal. Over a decade-long career, Plasse played for several teams including the Kansas City Scouts, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Colorado Rockies. Known for his reflexes and competitive spirit, he earned respect throughout the hockey world. After retiring as a player, Plasse remained involved in the sport before his passing in 2006.

Born in Getxo in 1934, José María Maguregui enjoyed a successful career as a midfielder in La Liga. He represented Athletic Bilbao and was known for his precise passing and on-field vision. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to management, leading clubs such as Valencia and Sevilla. Maguregui was respected for his ability to develop young talent and adapt his tactics to each team. His coaching career spanned over two decades across Spain's top divisions. He influenced Spanish football with innovative formations and motivational leadership. Maguregui passed away in 2013, leaving a lasting legacy among fans and players alike.

Born in 1927, Johnny Orr played collegiate basketball before a brief stint in the NBA with the Boston Celtics. He began his coaching career as an assistant and later led the University of Michigan to the 1976 NCAA championship game. At Iowa State, Orr revived the program, earning the nickname 'Chief' and attracting record crowds. His charismatic approach and fan-friendly atmosphere made his teams a hit among supporters. Over his career, he accumulated over 600 wins and received multiple Coach of the Year honors. Orr retired in 1994 and was inducted into several halls of fame. He died in 2013, remembered as one of college basketball's most beloved figures.

Doug Atkins played college football at the University of Tennessee before embarking on an NFL career with the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears. A dominant defensive end, he was selected to six Pro Bowls and named to multiple All-Pro teams. His towering presence and relentless style on the field earned him the nickname “Dawg.” Atkins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982. Off the field, he was celebrated for his humorous motivational speeches and positive leadership. His legacy endures as one of the game’s early defensive legends.

Howard Davis Jr. captured hearts at the 1976 Montreal Olympics by winning a gold medal in the lightweight division. He was honored with the Val Barker Trophy for Outstanding Boxer of the Games. Turning professional, Davis compiled an impressive record and earned worldwide praise for his skill and determination. After retiring from competition, he dedicated himself to training the next generation of fighters and worked as a boxing commentator. He faced health challenges later in life but remained active in the boxing community until his passing. Davis is remembered as one of America’s most beloved boxing figures.