January 31

Eddie Tolan (1908-1967) was an American sprinter who won gold medals in both the 100 meters and 200 meters at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. He was the first athlete to achieve this sprint double at the Olympic Games. Nicknamed 'the Midnight Express', he also set world records in short-distance events. After retiring from competition he worked as a teacher and coach, inspiring young athletes. Tolan's achievements paved the way for future generations of sprinters.

Born Shohei Baba in 1938, Giant Baba began his career as a basketball player before transitioning to professional wrestling. He co-founded All Japan Pro Wrestling in 1972, serving as its top star and promoter for over two decades. Known for his towering height and gentle persona, he popularized puroresu both in Japan and internationally. Baba held multiple championships and was celebrated for his sportsmanship and in-ring psychology. He trained and mentored many future stars, shaping the next generation of Japanese wrestlers. His contributions to wrestling earned him a place in several halls of fame and enduring admiration from fans.

Eleanor Holm was an American swimmer who won gold in the 100-meter backstroke at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. Known for her athletic prowess and glamorous persona, she transitioned to Hollywood, appearing in films alongside stars like Ginger Rogers. Despite a controversial expulsion from the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Holm remained a popular figure in sports and entertainment. She toured with musical revues and endorsed swimwear brands. Her story inspired characters in film and television.

František Čapek was a Czechoslovak sprint canoeist who competed in the 1948 and 1952 Summer Olympics. He won a silver medal in the C-1 1000 meters event at the London Games in 1948. Born in Prague, he dominated national canoeing championships throughout the late 1940s. Čapek later coached aspiring canoeists and contributed to the development of the sport in Czechoslovakia. His achievements helped popularize competitive canoeing in his homeland.

Vic Howe (1929–2015) was a Canadian ice hockey forward who briefly played in the NHL with the New York Rangers. He spent most of his career in the minor leagues, earning a reputation as a reliable and versatile player. The younger brother of hockey legend Gordie Howe, Vic carved his own path in professional hockey. After retiring from play, he stayed connected to the sport through coaching and community programs. He is remembered for his dedication to the game and his contribution to hockey culture in Canada. His legacy highlights the depth of talent in mid-20th-century North American hockey.

Udo Lattek (1935–2015) was a German footballer turned coach and sports journalist, one of Europe’s most successful managers. He led Borussia Mönchengladbach to multiple Bundesliga titles in the 1970s and guided Bayern Munich to a European Cup triumph. Known for tactical innovation and motivational skills, he also coached FC Barcelona and the West Germany national team. After retiring from management, Lattek became a respected commentator and pundit for German television. His winning record and influence on modern coaching techniques made him a legend of the sport. Lattek’s career spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on European football history.

Rasual Butler was an American professional basketball player who enjoyed an 18-year career in the NBA. Born in Philadelphia in 1979, he starred at La Salle University before being drafted by the Miami Heat in 2002. Butler went on to play for the LA Clippers, New Orleans Hornets, San Antonio Spurs, and other teams, known for his sharpshooting and versatility. He won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2001 Goodwill Games and was valued for his reliable bench scoring throughout his career. After his NBA tenure, Butler played briefly overseas and remained involved in basketball development. His life was tragically cut short in a 2018 car accident at age 38.