October 03

John Heisman was born in 1869 in Cleveland, Ohio and grew up playing football at Brown University and the University of Pennsylvania. He began his coaching career in 1892, leading teams at Oberlin College, Auburn University, and Georgia Institute of Technology, among others. Heisman introduced innovative tactics such as the forward pass, shifts, and hidden-ball plays that transformed the game. Under his guidance, Georgia Tech won the national championship in 1917, marking one of the most dominant seasons in early college football. Beyond coaching, he was a respected athletic director and promoter of clean sportsmanship. The Heisman Trophy, established in 1935 and first awarded in 1936, honors his lasting impact on the sport. Heisman died in 1936, cementing his legacy as one of football's earliest strategists and visionaries.

Tochigiyama Moriya (1892-1959) was a sumo wrestler from Tochigi Prefecture who achieved the sport's highest rank of yokozuna at the age of 24. He debuted in professional sumo in the early 1910s and quickly advanced through the rankings with a powerful pushing and thrusting style. As the 27th yokozuna, he recorded numerous tournament victories and was celebrated for his consistent winning record. After retiring from active competition, he served as an elder in the sumo association, mentoring younger wrestlers and preserving sumo traditions. His name remains synonymous with strength and dedication in the history of sumo.

Friedrich Karm (1907-1980) was an Estonian forward who earned multiple caps for the national football team in the late 1920s and 1930s. Playing primarily for Tallinna JK, he was known for his pace, technical skill, and goal-scoring ability. Karm competed in regional competitions such as the Baltic Cup, helping Estonia secure notable victories against neighboring nations. After retiring as a player, he remained active in the sport as a coach and mentor, contributing to the development of Estonian football. His career is remembered for its role in establishing Estonia on the international football stage.

Born in 1912, Vince DiMaggio made his Major League Baseball debut in 1937 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Over a career spanning the late 1930s and 1940s, he played for teams like the Boston Bees and Cincinnati Reds. Celebrated for his powerful swing and strong arm in the outfield, he hit over 100 career home runs. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into managing and scouting in the minor leagues. As the older brother of Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio, he helped solidify the DiMaggio family's baseball legacy.

Born in 1960, Stefano Casiraghi married Princess Caroline of Monaco and became a prominent figure in both business and motorsport. He founded companies in the fitness and sports sectors, demonstrating sharp commercial acumen. Simultaneously, he excelled as an offshore powerboat racer, winning multiple international trophies. His dynamic career blended entrepreneurial success with a passion for high-speed competition. Casiraghi's tragic death in a racing accident in 1990 shocked Monaco, and he is remembered for his daring pursuits and devotion to family.

Born in 1960 in Detroit, John Cerutti made his MLB debut with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1985. Over his seven-year career, he also pitched for the Milwaukee Brewers and Detroit Tigers, earning praise for his effective curveball. Following his retirement in 1992, he pursued broadcasting and served as a sportscaster on regional sports networks. Known for his friendly demeanor and deep knowledge of the game, he remained a beloved figure among baseball fans. Cerutti's passion for baseball continued to shape his career until his passing in 2004 at age 43.

Peter Norman was born in Coburg, Victoria in 1942 and emerged as one of Australia's top sprinters during the 1960s. At the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, he won the silver medal in the 200 meters and set an Oceanian record. On the medal podium, Norman wore an Olympic Project for Human Rights badge, showing solidarity with Tommie Smith and John Carlos's protest. His principled stance attracted both praise and controversy upon returning home. After retiring from competition, he worked as a physical education teacher and continued to advocate for social justice. Norman passed away in 2006, and his legacy endures as a symbol of courage and equality in sport.

Albie Roles began his career with Portsmouth in the late 1930s, quickly earning a reputation as a versatile defender. The outbreak of World War II interrupted his playing days, but he continued to feature in wartime leagues and guest matches. After the war, Roles returned to Portsmouth and contributed to the club’s competitive performances in the Football League. Known for his strong tackling and reliable presence at the back, he was a favorite among fans. Following his retirement, he remained involved in local football coaching and community programs. He passed away in 2012, remembered for his dedication to the sport and his club.

Born in 1978, Sari Abacha rose through the youth ranks to become a dynamic midfielder in Nigerian domestic leagues. He played for clubs such as Sunshine Stars and Enyimba FC, where his speed and ball control earned him a reputation as a game-changer. Abacha was known for his work rate on the pitch and his ability to support both defense and attack. Although he never featured for the senior national team, he remained a respected figure in the league for his professional approach. After retiring, he was involved in youth coaching, sharing his experience with the next generation. His untimely death in 2013 was mourned by teammates and fans alike.

Sergei Belov was born in 1944 and became one of the greatest basketball players in Soviet history. Playing as a shooting guard, he won multiple European championships and led the USSR to Olympic gold in 1972. Belov was the first international player inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching and administrative roles, nurturing a new generation of talent. Known for his smooth shooting and basketball IQ, he remains a legendary figure in Russian sport. Belov passed away in 2013, leaving an enduring legacy as a pioneer of international basketball.

Jean-Jacques Marcel was a French footballer who played primarily as a midfielder. Born in 1931, he began his professional career with Toulon before moving to Marseille. He earned 44 caps for the French national team between 1953 and 1961. Marcel represented France at the 1954 and 1958 FIFA World Cups, helping the team to a third-place finish in 1958. After retiring as a player, he worked as a youth coach and scout. He is remembered for his elegant passing and leadership on the pitch.