November 13

John Grieb was born on November 13, 1879. He represented the United States at the 1904 Olympic Games in St. Louis, competing in gymnastics and triathlon events. Grieb showcased remarkable versatility by participating in multiple disciplines, reflecting the early spirit of Olympic competition. While detailed records of his performances are limited, his involvement helped establish the United States as a competitive force in early international gymnastics. Grieb's athletic career exemplifies the dedication and pioneering spirit of early American Olympians.

Leo Goodwin was born on November 13, 1883. At the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis, he competed in swimming, diving, and water polo, exemplifying the versatility of early Olympic athletes. Goodwin won medals in multiple aquatic events, contributing to the United States' strong showing in water sports. After his competitive career, he remained active in promoting aquatic athletics, mentoring younger competitors. His achievements helped lay the foundation for the development of American Olympic swimming and water polo programs.

John Jordan "Buck" O’Neil Jr. was born in 1911 in Florida and became a standout first baseman for the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro Leagues. Known for his leadership on and off the field, he later became the first African American coach in Major League Baseball with the Chicago Cubs. O’Neil was instrumental in founding the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, preserving the history and heritage of Black baseball. His warm personality and storytelling brought widespread attention to the achievements of Negro League players. O’Neil received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his contributions to sports and civil rights. He continued to advocate for players and the game he loved until his death in 2006.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, in 1928, Jack George played college basketball before turning professional. He joined the NBA in 1950 and spent most of his career with the Philadelphia Warriors and Syracuse Nationals. Known for his speed and defensive skills, he provided reliable backcourt support. He competed during the league's formative years, contributing to the sport's growing popularity. After retiring from playing, he remained involved in basketball through coaching and youth development. He passed away in 1989, remembered for his role in early professional basketball.

Born in Tokyo in 1929, Asashio Tarō III joined professional sumo at a young age and quickly became noted for his formidable strength and pushing techniques. He won multiple top division championships before being promoted to yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo, as the 46th grand champion. He was admired for his sportsmanship and rigorous training regimen. After retiring from competition, he assumed the elder name Takasago and coached at the Takasago stable, nurturing future sumo stars. He passed away in 1988, remembered for his achievements on the dohyo and his contributions to the sport's development.

Born on November 13, 1938, Rule turned professional in 1961. He competed on the PGA Tour throughout the 1960s, earning several top-10 finishes. Rule was known for his steady ball-striking and sportsmanship on the course. After retiring from full-time competition, he became involved in golf coaching and development. He has mentored many young players and remains active in the golfing community.

Born on November 13, 1939, Brückner began his career as a player in Czechoslovakia before transitioning to coaching. He managed several Czech clubs, winning multiple domestic titles with Slovan Liberec. Appointed head coach of the Czech Republic national team in 2001, he led them to the Euro 2004 semi-finals. Under his guidance, the team also reached the 2006 World Cup, advancing to the knockout stage. Brückner is praised for his tactical innovation and development of Czech football talent. He retired from international coaching in 2008 but remains a respected figure in the sport.

Mel Stottlemyre was an American professional baseball player born in 1941 who spent his entire 12-year MLB playing career with the New York Yankees. A five-time All-Star, he was a key figure in the Yankees' pitching rotation during their late 1960s dynasty. After retiring as a player, Stottlemyre became a respected pitching coach for teams like the Seattle Mariners, New York Mets, and St. Louis Cardinals. He returned to the Yankees as their pitching coach from 1994 to 2005, helping the team win four World Series championships. Known for his expertise and mentorship, he influenced generations of pitchers. Stottlemyre passed away in 2019, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field.

Roberto Boninsegna, born in 1943, is a retired Italian football striker who enjoyed success both domestically and internationally. He began his career at Cagliari and later starred for Inter Milan, winning two Serie A titles in the 1960s and 1970s. Boninsegna's aerial prowess and clinical finishing made him one of the era's most feared forwards. He won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer at the 1970 FIFA World Cup, helping Italy reach the final. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management with clubs including Catania, Udinese, and Lazio. His contributions to Italian football have earned him a lasting legacy among fans and teammates.

Jay Sigel, born in 1943, is an American golfer renowned for his outstanding amateur career. He won back-to-back U.S. Amateur Championships in 1982 and 1983, establishing himself as one of the sport's top amateurs. Sigel represented the United States in multiple Walker Cup and Eisenhower Trophy teams, contributing to several victories. He turned professional at age 50 and joined the Champions Tour, where he won multiple events. Renowned for his precise iron play and sportsmanship, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Sigel's career is celebrated for its longevity and excellence across both amateur and senior professional golf.

Howard Wilkinson, born in 1943, is an English former football midfielder turned manager. After playing for clubs like Preston North End and Birmingham City, he transitioned to management in the late 1970s. Wilkinson achieved his greatest success with Leeds United, guiding them to the First Division championship in 1992 just before the creation of the Premier League. He became the last English manager to win England's top division. Following his club career, he served as Director of Football for the Football Association, shaping youth development and coaching standards nationwide. Known for his attention to detail and emphasis on discipline, Wilkinson has left a significant mark on English football.

Masahiro Hasemi began his motorsport career in the Japanese Formula 2000 championship, showcasing remarkable speed and versatility. In 1976, he joined the Formula One circuit with the March team, marking him as one of Japan's earliest F1 pioneers. Although his F1 tenure was brief, Hasemi made history by leading the 1976 Japanese Grand Prix before retiring due to mechanical issues. Beyond Formula One, he excelled in endurance racing, competing in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Japanese Sports Prototype Championship. His adaptability across different racing disciplines earned him respect within the motorsports community. After retiring from active competition, Hasemi contributed to nurturing new racing talent and served as a commentator and motorsport ambassador in Japan. His pioneering achievements paved the way for future generations of Japanese drivers on the global stage.