November 28

Hermann de Pourtalès was born in Geneva in 1847 into a Swiss noble family with a naval tradition. He competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris alongside his wife Hélène de Pourtalès, making them one of the first married couples to win Olympic gold. Sailing the boat Lérina, the Pourtalès crew captured two gold medals in the 1–2 ton class. Beyond the Games, de Pourtalès served in the Swiss Navy and contributed to yacht design and sailing clubs. His Olympic success and pioneering family partnership secured his place in sports history before his death in 1904.

James Naismith (1861–1939) was a Canadian-American physical educator, physician, and sports innovator credited with inventing basketball in 1891 at the YMCA International Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts. Seeking an indoor activity to keep athletes fit during winter, he crafted thirteen original rules and used a peach basket as the first goal. Naismith's game rapidly gained popularity, spreading across North America and evolving into a global sport. He later became the first basketball coach at the University of Kansas, where he influenced early training methods. His emphasis on teamwork, fair play, and structured competition laid the foundation for modern basketball culture. Naismith's vision continues to shape the sport at all levels today.

Dwight Filley Davis (1879–1945) was an American athlete, philanthropist, and politician best known for creating the Davis Cup, the premier international men's tennis tournament initiated in 1900. As a competitor, he played at Wimbledon and represented the United States at the 1904 Olympics, showcasing his athletic talent on a global stage. Transitioning to public service, Davis served as U.S. Assistant Secretary of War before becoming the 49th Secretary of War under President Calvin Coolidge, where he championed military readiness and modernization. He later served as Governor-General of the Philippines, focusing on infrastructure development and public health initiatives. Davis's dual legacy in sports and governance highlights his versatile contributions to American society. His name endures through the Davis Cup, a testament to his enduring impact on tennis.

Born in 1896, he rose through sumo ranks with decisive victories and exceptional technique. Promoted to yokozuna in 1942, he earned a reputation for strength and dignity on the dohyo. Over his career, Tsunenohana recorded several tournament championships and maintained a dominant record. After retiring in 1949, he led a sumo stable, mentoring future generations of wrestlers. He is remembered for his contributions to modernizing training methods and upholding sumo tradition. Tsunenohana passed away in 1960, leaving an enduring legacy in Japanese sumo history.

Born in 1896, Bob Meusel joined the New York Yankees in 1920 and became a key member of the famed 'Murderers’ Row' lineup. He helped the Yankees win three consecutive World Series titles from 1927 to 1929 alongside Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Known for his powerful hitting and strong throwing arm, Meusel compiled a career .309 batting average with 153 home runs. After retiring in 1929, he served as a merchant mariner during World War II. His contributions to the Yankees’ success cemented his place in baseball history. Meusel died in 1977, remembered for his role in one of the sport’s most celebrated eras.

Born in 1956, Kazuharu Sonoda began his career in Japan during the mid-1970s and quickly gained a reputation for athleticism. He competed in Mexico’s lucha libre circuit, refining a dynamic aerial style under a masked persona. Returning to Japan, Sonoda wrestled for major promotions such as All Japan Pro Wrestling, engaging in memorable singles and tag team matches. His innovative fusion of wrestling traditions influenced the sport’s evolution on both continents. Tragically, his career was cut short by a motorcycle accident in 1987. Sonoda is remembered for his pioneering spirit and impact on international professional wrestling.

Buster Edwards began his career as a promising boxer, competing in regional bouts across England. In 1963, he participated in the infamous Great Train Robbery, one of the largest heists in British history. After serving time in prison, Edwards ran a flower stall in central London and lived a relatively quiet life. His role in the robbery made him a figure of public fascination and folklore. Edwards authored an autobiography detailing his life of crime and boxing experiences. He died in 1994 under circumstances that remain the subject of debate and speculation.

Joe Kelly was one of Ireland's pioneering motor racing talents, competing from the 1930s through the 1950s. He raced in prestigious events including the Monaco Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Kelly earned acclaim for his daring driving style and mechanical skill behind the wheel. He was instrumental in popularizing motor sports in Ireland, inspiring future generations of racers. After retiring from competition, he contributed to motorsport journalism and local racing clubs. Kelly's legacy endures as a foundational figure in Irish auto racing history.

Ted Bates was born in 1918 in London and joined Southampton FC as an amateur in 1937. His early career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the British Army. After the war, he made over 250 appearances as a wing-half for the club, known for his tireless work rate and leadership on the pitch. In 1955 he became the youngest manager in the Football League, taking the helm at Southampton at age 36. He guided the team through promotions and challenges, becoming a beloved figure known as 'Mr. Southampton'. Bates remained associated with the club as a director and ambassador after stepping down as manager in 1971. He was awarded the freedom of the city of Southampton in recognition of his service to the club and community. Bates passed away in 2003, leaving a lasting legacy at St Mary's Stadium.

Jack Concannon was born in Boston in 1943 and played college football at Boston College before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1964. Over his eight-year NFL career, he played for the Eagles, Chicago Bears, and Dallas Cowboys, earning a reputation as a reliable and resilient quarterback. After retiring from football, Concannon explored acting and appeared in a few television commercials and local productions. His dual career in sports and entertainment showcased his versatility and charisma. Concannon remained active in charitable work, supporting youth sports programs until his death in 2005. He is remembered for his leadership on the field and his engaging presence off it. His life story continues to inspire athletes transitioning to second careers.

Dale “Big D” Armstrong was a pioneering Canadian drag racer, crew chief, and engine builder. He achieved success both behind the wheel and in the pits, guiding teams to several NHRA Funny Car championships. Armstrong’s innovations in engine design helped push dragsters to unprecedented speeds. As crew chief for top drivers like Kenny Bernstein, he secured four national titles. His technical expertise and passion left an enduring mark on the sport of drag racing.

Gerry Byrne was an English-born Welsh international footballer who played left-back for Liverpool FC. He etched his name in history by scoring the winning goal in the 1965 FA Cup final despite a broken collarbone. Known for his fearless tackling and unwavering determination, he became a fan favorite at Anfield. Over more than a decade, he made over 300 appearances for Liverpool and earned several caps for Wales. Byrne’s grit and heroism remain celebrated in football lore.