October 09

Charlie Faust (1880–1915) was an American baseball player who appeared briefly in Major League Baseball. He played professionally for a short time during the early 1900s before leaving the game. Few details survive about his career or life outside baseball, making him a little-known figure today. His short tenure reflects the challenges faced by early professional athletes. Faust died in 1915 at the age of 35, leaving behind a sparse but curious legacy in baseball history.

Rube Marquard (1886–1980) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher who earned fame with the New York Giants in the 1910s. He later transitioned into managing roles in professional baseball. Marquard was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding pitching career. His record included an impressive winning streak early in his career. He remained connected to the sport throughout his long life before passing away at age 93.

Joe Sewell was an American professional baseball player. He played primarily as a shortstop and third baseman in Major League Baseball. Sewell spent most of his career with the Cleveland Indians before finishing with the New York Yankees. He was known for his exceptional contact hitting and remarkable patience at the plate. Sewell holds the record for the fewest strikeouts in a season and career. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. After retiring, he served as a coach and mentor for young players. His disciplined approach to hitting remains renowned in baseball history.

Born in Williamstown, Kentucky, Risen starred at Indiana State University before turning professional. He played ten seasons in the BAA/NBA with the Rochester Royals and Boston Celtics. Risen won two NBA championships and was selected to four All-Star teams. Standing at 6'9", he was a dominant center in the league's formative years. After retiring, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998. His contributions helped lay the foundation for modern professional basketball.

Born in 1930 in Erath, Louisiana, Hank Lauricella rose to fame as a halfback for LSU, earning two-time All-American honors and finishing second in the 1950 Heisman Trophy balloting. After college, he served as a United States Marine Corps lieutenant during the Korean War. Following his military service, he embarked on a long political career, representing District 8 in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1964 to 1972 and serving in the State Senate from 1976 to 2000. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974, celebrated for his versatility and leadership on and off the field. Lauricella remained a beloved figure in Louisiana sports and politics until his passing in 2014 at the age of 84.

Born in 1931 in Pasadena, California, Homer Smith starred as a quarterback at UCLA before beginning his coaching career. He served as head coach at the University of the Pacific from 1961 to 1963 and at the Air Force Academy from 1969 to 1970. Smith gained acclaim as an offensive coordinator at Stanford under Bill Walsh, at Notre Dame under Ara Parseghian, and at Alabama under Bear Bryant. Known for his innovative passing offenses, Smith helped shape modern college football strategies. He retired with over 200 collegiate coaching victories and continued consulting and writing on football strategy before his death in 2011.

Joe Pepitone rose to prominence as a power-hitting first baseman for the New York Yankees during the 1960s, contributing to three consecutive World Series titles. Known for his charismatic personality and imposing presence at the plate, he was chosen as an All-Star in 1963, 1964, and 1965. After his playing career with the Yankees, Cubs, and Astros, Pepitone transitioned into coaching and mentoring young players in the minor leagues. His larger-than-life persona and competitive spirit made him a fan favorite. Pepitone's legacy as both a player and coach spanned over five decades until his passing in 2023.

Jimmy Montgomery spent almost two decades guarding the goal for Sunderland AFC, making over 600 appearances between 1960 and 1977. His most famous moment came in the 1973 FA Cup final when he pulled off a miraculous double save to help underdog Sunderland defeat Leeds United. After retiring as a player, Montgomery transitioned into coaching, sharing his expertise with young goalkeepers. He remains a celebrated figure among Sunderland supporters for his loyalty, consistency, and match-winning performances. Montgomery's legacy endures as one of English football's most iconic goalkeepers.

John Gray played county cricket in England as a batsman and contributed with occasional bowling, demonstrating technical skill and consistency in the sport. In parallel, he pursued rugby union at the club level, balancing the demands of both athletic careers with notable dedication. Gray's dual involvement in cricket and rugby highlighted his versatility and commitment to teamwork across disciplines. His participation during the amateur era of English sports exemplified the passion of multi-sport athletes. After retiring from competition, he remained active in sports through coaching and mentoring young athletes in his community. Gray's legacy endures as an example of the rewarding challenge of excelling in multiple sports.

Brian Downing played in Major League Baseball for 18 seasons from 1973 to 1990, spending time with the California Angels, Texas Rangers, and Chicago White Sox. Initially an outfielder, he later excelled as a designated hitter, compiling 275 home runs and over 1,100 RBIs. Downing was selected as an All-Star in 1983 and won a Silver Slugger Award. His disciplined approach at the plate led to a reputation as one of the game’s most consistent hitters. After retiring, he contributed to the sport as a coach and instructor, mentoring young players. His enduring impact on baseball is remembered by fans of multiple franchises.

Born in 1953, Hank Pfister turned professional in 1977 and quickly made his mark on the ATP tour. He reached the semifinals of the 1977 US Open and won four Grand Slam doubles titles. Known for his aggressive net play, he achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 19. Pfister also represented the United States in Davis Cup competition. After retiring, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor to young players. His legacy endures through his achievements and influence in American tennis.

Born in 1954, Rubén Magnano began his coaching career in Argentina before making a mark on international basketball. He led the Argentine national team to victory at the 2004 Athens Olympics, earning praise for his tactical acumen. Magnano also won the 2002 FIBA World Championship and multiple South American titles. He coached club teams in Europe and South America, sharing his expertise across leagues. Known for his emphasis on teamwork and defense, he has developed numerous players for top-level competition. Magnano's success has made him one of the most respected coaches in the basketball world.