December 16

Born in 1878 in Iowa, Frank Gotch mastered catch-as-catch-can wrestling, blending strength with innovative technique. After winning numerous amateur titles, he turned professional in 1900 and quickly rose through regional circuits. Gotch captured the World Heavyweight Wrestling Championship in 1908 by defeating legendary opponent George Hackenschmidt. He defended his title repeatedly, drawing massive crowds and popularizing professional wrestling in the United States. Known for his endurance and strategic grappling, Gotch retired undefeated in 1913 with an unparalleled record. He remained active in coaching and promotion, shaping the sport’s rules and training future champions. Gotch’s legacy endures as a pioneering figure whose skill and showmanship helped establish modern professional wrestling.

Billy Hamilton was an American baseball player born in 1866. Nicknamed "Sliding Billy" for his daring base running and speed. He played primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Colts between 1888 and 1901. Hamilton led the National League in stolen bases five times and retired with 912 steals. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939, his .344 career batting average remains one of the highest.

Futabayama Sadaji became the 35th Yokozuna in 1937 and dominated the sumo world with an unparalleled winning streak of 69 bouts. Known for his elegant technique and imposing presence, he was a symbol of excellence in Japanese sport. After retiring in 1945, he served as a coach and mentor to younger wrestlers, shaping the next generation of champions. His legacy remains unrivaled, and he is remembered as one of sumo's greatest figures. Futabayama passed away in 1968, leaving behind a legend that endures in sumo lore.

Debs Garms was an American professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball from 1927 to 1943. Born in 1907, he played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates. In 1940, he won the National League batting title with a .355 average in one of the most unusual batting races in history. Known for his consistent hitting and clutch performances, Garms excelled both as a regular and pinch hitter. His perseverance and skill made him a respected figure in the golden era of baseball.

Oscar Alfredo Gálvez was an Argentinian motor racing pioneer and one of the greatest figures in South American motorsport history. Born in 1913, he won five Turismo Carretera championships and achieved numerous victories across Argentina. Gálvez’s skill and daring behind the wheel made him a national hero and helped popularize auto racing in his country. He, along with his brother Juan, became icons, and Buenos Aires’ premier racing circuit was later named Autódromo Oscar y Juan Gálvez in their honor. His legacy endures through memorial races and the ongoing passion for motorsports in Argentina.

Ted Abernathy was an American professional baseball pitcher who enjoyed a 16-year career in Major League Baseball. Known as "The Sidewinder," his distinctive sidearm and submarine pitching styles made him a valuable relief specialist. He played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, Washington Senators, and Milwaukee Brewers. Abernathy was selected as an All-Star in 1963 after leading the league in saves. After retiring, he served as a pitching coach and scout, sharing his expertise with younger players. His endurance and adaptability left a mark on the game before his passing in 2004.

Don Jardine was a Canadian professional wrestler whose imposing masked persona, 'The Spoiler,' became legendary in the 1960s and 1970s. Wrestling across North America and Japan, he held numerous tag team and singles titles, captivating fans with his high-flying moves and mysterious presence. Jardine’s technical skill and ring psychology set him apart as a performer, influencing future generations of wrestlers. After retiring from active competition, he dedicated himself to training up-and-coming talent, sharing his expertise in holds and match strategy. His contributions to professional wrestling were recognized with his induction into several regional halls of fame. Jardine’s legacy endures through the careers of those he mentored before his passing in 2006.

Lizmark (1950-2015), born Rafael Jiménez, was a pioneering Mexican professional wrestler. He became a star in CMLL and UWA, captivating fans with aerial maneuvers and technical skill. Nicknamed 'El Genio de la Lucha Libre,' Lizmark popularized high-flying styles in Mexico. He held multiple championships, including the UWA World Light Heavyweight title. After retiring, he trained the next generation of luchadores and remained a cultural icon. Lizmark's legacy endures as one of Mexico's most influential and beloved wrestling figures.

Dick Van Arsdale is an American former professional basketball player who competed in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. He began his career with the New York Knicks before becoming a foundational player for the Phoenix Suns. A two-time NBA All-Star (1969, 1970), he averaged 15.4 points per game over his career. Nicknamed "Spider-Man" for his leaping ability and long reach, he ranks among the Suns' all-time leaders in both scoring and games played. After retiring, Van Arsdale dedicated over two decades to coaching and executive roles within the Suns organization. He was honored with induction into the Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor, solidifying his place in franchise history.