February 11

Max Baer rose to prominence as the World Heavyweight Champion in 1934, captivating audiences with his devastating right hand. He defended the title twice before his upset loss to James Braddock in the famed 'Cinderella Man' fight. Following his boxing career, Baer transitioned to Hollywood, where he appeared in films such as The Harder They Fall. Known for his commanding presence and outspoken personality, he became a popular figure both in the ring and on screen. Baer’s legacy lives on through his contributions to boxing history and his role in shaping the public image of the sport during its golden era.

Ottavio Missoni competed as a hurdler for Italy at the 1948 London Olympics. After retiring from athletics, he and his wife Rosita founded the Missoni fashion house in 1953. He became famed for his innovative knitwear designs, characterized by colorful patterns. Under his leadership, Missoni grew into an internationally recognized brand. Missoni's unique aesthetic influenced the fashion industry throughout the late 20th century. He balanced his sporting background with a visionary approach to design and business.

Budge Patty was one of the world's top tennis players in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He won the French Open and Wimbledon singles titles in 1950, becoming one of few Americans to achieve this. Patty also reached multiple Grand Slam finals and represented the U.S. in Davis Cup competitions. Known for his graceful style and all-court game, he was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. After retiring, he lived in Europe and remained active in the tennis community. His achievements helped pave the way for future American tennis success.

Bill Lawry is a former Australian cricketer born in 1937. He played as an opening batsman and captained the Australian national team in the late 1960s. Lawry scored over 7500 first-class runs and earned a reputation for tenacious defense. After retiring from playing in 1972, he became a respected television commentator and radio host known for his insightful analysis. His enthusiastic commentary helped popularize cricket broadcasts across Australia. Lawry's distinctive voice and deep love for the game have made him a beloved figure among cricket fans for decades.

Eddie Shack was a Canadian professional ice hockey player born in 1937. He played twelve seasons in the NHL for teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins. Shack earned the nickname 'The Entertainer' for his lively personality on and off the ice. He won three Stanley Cups with the Maple Leafs in the 1960s. Known for his speed, toughness, and goal-scoring ability, he was a fan favorite wherever he played. After retiring, he remained involved in hockey and community initiatives. Shack passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of joy and passion for the sport.

Bevan Congdon was a New Zealand cricketer born in 1938. A right-handed batsman and occasional leg-spinner, he played 61 Test matches for his country. Congdon captained New Zealand from 1972 to 1974 and led his team to a historic series win in Pakistan in 1969–70. He was the first New Zealander to score a Test century in India, achieving the feat in 1966. Known for his reliability and leadership, he also contributed valuable lower-order runs. After retiring in 1978, Congdon remained active in cricket administration and commentary. He was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his impact on the game.

Calvin Fowler was an American basketball player born in 1940. He starred at both high school and college levels before embarking on a professional career. Fowler played in the American Basketball League and the Eastern Professional Basketball League during the 1960s. Known for his scoring ability and leadership, he earned respect on both ends of the court. After retiring from playing, he devoted himself to coaching and youth basketball development. He passed away in 2013, remembered for his dedication to the sport and impact in his community.

Ian Porterfield was born in Dumfries, Scotland, in 1946 and began his professional career with Sheffield United. He achieved legendary status as a player when he scored the winning goal for underdog Sunderland in the 1973 FA Cup Final. After retiring, Porterfield moved into management and led teams across Europe, Asia, and Africa. He is best known for guiding Northern Ireland to their first World Cup finals appearance in 1986. Porterfield’s coaching career spanned clubs such as Rotherham United, Colorado Rapids, and national sides in Kuwait and Oman. He was respected for his tactical acumen and ability to inspire players across diverse football cultures. Porterfield passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of unexpected triumphs and international influence.

James Silas was born in 1949 in Tallulah, Louisiana, and excelled as a guard at Stephen F. Austin State University before turning professional. He began his pro career in the ABA with the Dallas Chaparrals and later became a key player for the San Antonio Spurs. Nicknamed 'Captain Late' for his clutch performances, Silas was a three-time ABA All-Star and helped the Spurs transition into the NBA. Known for his smooth shooting and playmaking ability, he averaged nearly 20 points per game at his peak. After retiring, Silas returned to Stephen F. Austin as director of athletics and remained active in his community. His legacy is celebrated by Spurs fans and the broader basketball world for his role in elevating the franchise. Silas’s career bridged two leagues and left a lasting impact on the game's evolution during a transformative era.

Tom Veryzer was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1953. He excelled at baseball from a young age, earning a scholarship to the University of Michigan. Veryzer made his Major League Baseball debut with the Detroit Tigers in 1975, showcasing strong defensive skills at shortstop. During his career, he also played for the Cleveland Indians and New York Mets. Known for his quick reflexes and agility, he became a fan favorite. After retiring in 1984, he contributed to youth baseball programs in his hometown. He passed away in 2014, leaving a legacy as a reliable and steady infielder.

Roberto Moreno was born in Brasília in 1959 and began karting at a young age. He moved to Europe to pursue formula racing and entered Formula One with Minardi in 1982. Throughout his career, he drove for teams such as Benetton and Tyrrell. Moreno achieved his best result, a second-place finish, at the 1995 Monaco Grand Prix. Known for his technical feedback, he adapted quickly to different chassis and engines. After retiring from top-level competition, he worked as a test driver and consultant. Moreno is celebrated as one of Brazil's most versatile and respected racing veterans. He continues to be involved in motorsport events and driver mentoring.

Ken Shamrock is an American martial artist and professional wrestler. He competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and became one of the first inductees into the UFC Hall of Fame. Nicknamed "The World's Most Dangerous Man," Shamrock helped popularize mixed martial arts in the 1990s. He also competed in the World Wrestling Federation and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. Beyond fighting, Shamrock founded a martial arts academy and trained numerous champions. His pioneering career left a lasting impact on both MMA and sports entertainment.