December 24

Born in 1879, Wesley Coe emerged as one of the United States' premier throwers at the turn of the 20th century. He set national and world records in the shot put, discus, and hammer throw through innovative techniques. Coe competed in major national championships and represented American athleticism during a formative period for modern track and field. After his competitive career, he contributed as a coach, sharing his expertise with future generations of athletes. His achievements and dedication helped establish the United States as a powerhouse in throwing events.

Charles Gondouin was born in 1875 and emerged as a talented rugby union player in France. He represented his country at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where he also competed in tug-of-war. Gondouin and his teammates secured a gold medal in the tug-of-war event, marking a high point in his athletic career. Known for his strength and teamwork, he contributed to the early development of organized sports in France. After retiring from competition, he remained active in local sports clubs and community events. Gondouin passed away in 1947, remembered as a pioneer of French rugby and Olympic history.

Camille Tourville built his reputation in regional wrestling promotions across Canada and the United States. He competed as a heavyweight wrestler and later transitioned to managing emerging talent. Known for his charismatic presence and deep knowledge of the sport, he influenced the careers of many young wrestlers. Tourville's dual role inside and outside the ring helped shape the professional wrestling scene in his era. He retired from active involvement in the late 1970s but remained respected as a mentor. His contributions to wrestling history are remembered by enthusiasts of the sport.

Born in 1968, Mathews began his professional rugby league career in the late 1980s. He competed in the New South Wales Rugby League premiership, earning a reputation for his strong running. Known for his defensive prowess and teamwork, he became a valuable squad member. After retiring, he contributed to local clubs, coaching younger athletes. He passed away on December 24, 1992, remembered for his passion for the sport.

Syl Apps (1915-1998) was a Canadian professional ice hockey forward best known for his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He won the Stanley Cup three times and served as team captain from 1940 to 1943. Apps was also an accomplished pole vaulter who represented Canada at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. After retiring from sports, he became a successful businessman and philanthropist. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1961 and remains a Canadian sports icon.

Bill Bowerman (1911-1999) was an influential American track and field coach and co-founder of Nike, Inc. He led the University of Oregon's track team to multiple NCAA championships and coached numerous Olympians. Bowerman was known for experimenting with shoe designs, including the waffle sole. In 1964, he partnered with Phil Knight to launch Nike, which went on to become a global athletic brand. His commitment to performance and innovation transformed the sports footwear industry.

Johnny Oates (1946-2004) was an American professional baseball catcher who played for the Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves. After retiring as a player, he became a coach and eventually managed the Texas Rangers and Baltimore Orioles. Oates led the Rangers to their first playoff appearance in 1996 and won the World Series as a coach with the Orioles. He was respected for his strategic acumen and ability to develop young talent. Oates' legacy endures in the teams he guided and the players he mentored.

Born in 1922, Frans de Munck made his mark as one of the Netherlands' prominent goalkeepers in the post-war era. He earned caps for the national team while playing for notable clubs in the Netherlands and Germany. Known for his reflexes and leadership at the back, he became a fan favorite and earned the nickname 'The Black Panther' for his distinctive attire and agility. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into management, coaching teams across Europe. His influence extended beyond the pitch as he mentored younger players and shaped defensive strategies. He remains remembered for his athleticism and contributions to Dutch football. He passed away in 2010, leaving a legacy among the goalkeeper community.

Jerry Kindall (1935–2017) was an American professional baseball player who transitioned into a highly successful coaching career. As a second baseman for the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians from 1956 to 1965, he was known for his defensive skills and team play. After retiring as a player, Kindall became head coach of the University of Arizona Wildcats baseball team in 1973. He led the Wildcats to three College World Series championships in 1976, 1980, and 1986. Kindall was instrumental in developing numerous future major leaguers during his tenure. He was inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the sport. Kindall's leadership and passion for baseball left a lasting legacy in both professional and collegiate arenas.