February 14

Dick Richards earned his first cap for the Wales national team in the 1910s, showcasing skill and tenacity on the pitch. Playing primarily as a forward, he scored several important goals in home internationals and British competitions. Richards had a successful club career, competing in the English leagues and earning respect for his athleticism. His robust playing style and leadership made him a fan favorite and a key figure in Welsh football during his era. Despite the interruption of World War I, he returned to the sport and continued to influence the game. Richards's contributions helped lay foundations for Wales's footballing traditions.

Johnny Longden was a legendary jockey and trainer, born in England and raised in Canada before making his mark in American horse racing. He rode his first winner at age 14 and went on to claim over 6,000 victories, a record at the time of his retirement. In 1943, Longden won the Kentucky Derby aboard Count Fleet and secured the Triple Crown later that year. After retiring from riding, he became a successful trainer and stable owner, guiding horses to major stakes victories. His dedication to the sport earned him inductions into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in both Canada and the United States. Longden's storied career and unbeatable work ethic made him an enduring icon in thoroughbred racing.

Woody Hayes was a legendary college football coach who helmed Ohio State University's program from 1951 to 1978. Under his guidance, the Buckeyes won five national championships and dominated the Big Ten with a ground-based offensive style known as "three yards and a cloud of dust." Hayes coached numerous players who went on to successful professional careers and was renowned for his fiery intensity and strict discipline. His career record of 238-72-10 cemented his status among the sport's all-time greats. Despite controversy surrounding his behavior in the 1978 Gator Bowl, Hayes remained a revered figure in football history. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983, ensuring his enduring legacy.

Jay Hebert was an American professional golfer renowned for his steady play and major championship victory. He captured the 1960 PGA Championship, defeating his brother Lionel in a memorable final match. A member of multiple Ryder Cup teams, Hebert represented the United States in international competition. He enjoyed success on the PGA Tour throughout the 1950s and 1960s, winning six official events. Known for his sportsmanship and calm demeanor under pressure, he later served as a Ryder Cup captain. Hebert's contributions to American golf are remembered by fans and peers alike.

Ricardo Rodríguez was born on February 14, 1942 in Mexico City. He burst onto the Formula One scene as a teenager, scoring a podium finish at the 1961 Italian Grand Prix to become the youngest driver ever on an F1 podium. As a prodigy of the famous Rodríguez racing family, he competed for Team Lotus and earned praise for his fearless driving style. His promising career was cut short during practice for the 1962 Mexican Grand Prix when he suffered a fatal crash at just 20 years old. Rodríguez left a lasting legacy in motorsport and is remembered as one of Mexico's greatest racing talents.

Ronnie Peterson was born on February 14, 1944 in Örebro, Sweden. He rose through the ranks of motorsport to join Formula One in 1970, driving for teams like March and Lotus. Peterson earned a reputation for his elegant driving style and secured ten Grand Prix victories during his career. He finished runner-up in the 1971 World Championship and remained a fan favorite for his approachable personality. At the 1978 Italian Grand Prix, Peterson was involved in a fiery crash that led to fatal complications days later. His tragic death prompted safety reforms in F1 and solidified his place as one of the sport's most beloved figures.

John Quayle began his rugby league career in the 1960s, playing as a prop in the New South Wales Rugby Football League. After retiring from competition in the early 1970s, he transitioned into sports administration and became chief executive of the New South Wales Rugby League in 1983. Quayle played a key role in modernizing the game’s governance and expanding its commercial reach. He later served in leadership positions within the Australian Rugby League, helping to navigate the sport through periods of change and growth. His contributions helped lay the foundation for the professional era in Australian rugby league. Quayle’s lasting legacy is reflected in the strengthened structures and increased popularity of the game.

Kevin Keegan is an English former footballer and manager who achieved success both on the field and on the sidelines. As a player, he won league titles with Liverpool and Hamburg, and he was awarded the Ballon d'Or in 1978 and 1979. Keegan earned 63 caps for the England national team, captaining them during the 1982 FIFA World Cup. After retiring, he became a manager and led Newcastle United to promotion and Champions League qualification. He also managed the England national team from 1999 to 2000. Known for his energetic playing style and charismatic leadership, Keegan has remained a popular figure in the football world. He has worked as a television pundit and has authored an autobiography detailing his career.

Howard Davis Jr. was an American boxer celebrated for his gold medal performance at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, where he also received the Val Barker Trophy as the tournament’s Outstanding Boxer. Though he pursued a short professional career due to his personal values, Davis compiled a record that included several notable victories. After retiring as a fighter, he became a respected boxing trainer and mentor, guiding amateur and professional athletes. Davis was admired for his technical skill, speed, and sportsmanship both in and out of the ring. He authored an autobiography detailing his experiences balancing faith and competition. Davis’s contributions to boxing were recognized by inductions into various sports halls of fame. He passed away in 2015, remembered as a humble champion and inspiring teacher.

Dave Dravecky is an American former Major League Baseball pitcher who played primarily for the San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants. In 1989, he was diagnosed with a desmoid tumor in his pitching arm and underwent surgery, yet made a remarkable return to the mound later that year. His inspiring comeback was cut short when his arm tragically broke on the field, ending his playing career. Dravecky has since dedicated his life to motivational speaking, sharing messages of faith, hope, and resilience. He also served as a college baseball coach and Christian minister. Dravecky’s story has been featured in documentaries and books, highlighting his perseverance in the face of adversity. He remains an emblem of courage in sports and beyond.

Grant Thomas began his career as an Australian rules footballer in Victoria before transitioning to coaching. He gained prominence as the senior coach of the St Kilda Football Club from 2001 to 2006, where he guided the team to consecutive finals campaigns. Known for his tactical acumen and outspoken personality, Thomas became a respected figure in the AFL community. After stepping down from coaching, he pursued a career in media as a commentator and columnist, offering candid analysis on the sport. Thomas remains a sought-after voice in sports media and is celebrated for his insights into coaching and game tactics. His contributions to football strategy and his dynamic leadership style have left a lasting impact on the game in Australia.

Jim Kelly starred as the quarterback for the University of Miami before joining the Buffalo Bills in the USFL and subsequently in the NFL. He led the Bills to four straight Super Bowl games from 1990 to 1993, cementing his reputation as one of the league's most dynamic passers. Kelly's toughness and leadership on the field earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. After retiring in 1996, he transitioned into entrepreneurship, opening the Jim Kelly Foundation and launching businesses in the hospitality industry. Known for his philanthropic work, Kelly has supported cancer research and youth athletic programs. His enduring legacy includes both his on-field achievements and his contributions to the community.