John Peter Rhys Williams, commonly known as JPR Williams, was a Welsh rugby union player best
known for representing Wales in international rugby during their Golden Era in the 1970s. He was one of
a small group of Welsh players to have won three Grand Slams in 1971, 1976, 1978 and is widely
regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time. Williams attended Llandovery College and later
studied at St Mary’s Hospital Medical School in London. Despite pursuing a career in medicine, JP... moreJohn Peter Rhys Williams, commonly known as JPR Williams, was a Welsh rugby union player best
known for representing Wales in international rugby during their Golden Era in the 1970s. He was one of
a small group of Welsh players to have won three Grand Slams in 1971, 1976, 1978 and is widely
regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time. Williams attended Llandovery College and later
studied at St Mary’s Hospital Medical School in London. Despite pursuing a career in medicine, JPR
Williams made a name for himself as one of the most iconic figures in Welsh rugby history. Initially
Williams played tennis but switched to rugby in order to pursue a career in medicine. He made his
international debut for Wales in 1969 and went on to represent his country in numerous matches,
including the Five Nations Championship and British and Irish Lions tours. Throughout his illustrious
career, JPR Williams achieved numerous accolades, including Grand Slam victories with Wales in the Five
Nations Championship. He also captained Wales five times from 1978–1979. Williams retired from
professional rugby in 1981, to pursue a career in medicine as an orthopedic surgeon. He remained
involved in the sport through coaching and mentorship and in 1997 he was inducted of the International
Rugby Hall of Fame.
Franz Anton Beckenbauer, nicknamed “Der Kaiser” (The Emperor) for his exceptional skills, was a
German professional football player and manager, best known for being one of only three men to have
won the World Cup both as a player and manager. He is regarded as one of the finest footballers of all
time. Beckenbauer began his football career at FC Bayern Munich' youth team in 1957. In 1964 he made
his senior debut for Bayern Munich and played as a sweeper, a central defender, and later as a
... moreFranz Anton Beckenbauer, nicknamed “Der Kaiser” (The Emperor) for his exceptional skills, was a
German professional football player and manager, best known for being one of only three men to have
won the World Cup both as a player and manager. He is regarded as one of the finest footballers of all
time. Beckenbauer began his football career at FC Bayern Munich' youth team in 1957. In 1964 he made
his senior debut for Bayern Munich and played as a sweeper, a central defender, and later as a
midfielder. After he retired as a football player, Beckenbauer transitioned into a managerial position for
manager of the West Germany national team and later for Bayern Munich. His achievements as both a
player and manager are nothing short of astounding. Beckenbauer is the only defender in football
history to win the Ballon d'Or twice. He was also named European Footballer of the Year twice, and was
chosen on the World Team of the 20th Century in 1998, and the FIFA World Cup Dream Team in 2002.
Beckenbauer is one also of nine players to have won the FIFA World Cup, the European Champions Cup,
and the Ballon d'Or. In 2004, was listed in the FIFA 100 of the world's greatest living players and was
inducted into the FIFA Hall of Fame in 2004.
Luwellyn Tyrone Landers was a prominent figure in South African politics, best known for serving as the
Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation from 2014 to 2019. Lander's career in
government began during the apartheid era as a member of the Labour Party and the chairperson of the
Labour Party, under the late Allan Hendrickse. In the 1980s, he served as deputy minister in the National
Party cabinet of then President PW Botha. However in 1993 shortly before the April gener... moreLuwellyn Tyrone Landers was a prominent figure in South African politics, best known for serving as the
Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation from 2014 to 2019. Lander's career in
government began during the apartheid era as a member of the Labour Party and the chairperson of the
Labour Party, under the late Allan Hendrickse. In the 1980s, he served as deputy minister in the National
Party cabinet of then President PW Botha. However in 1993 shortly before the April general election,
Landers and several other Labour Party MPs to join the ANC. During his time in parliament, he served on
various parliamentary committees, including the joint standing committee on intelligence, portfolio
committee on justice and constitutional development, National Assembly rules committee, the joint
rules committee, ad hoc committees as well as the ANC National Disciplinary Committee. Throughout
his career, he was known for his dedication to advancing diplomatic relations and cooperation on the
international stage. His efforts were instrumental in promoting South Africa’s interests and fostering
positive relationships with other nations. Landers was also recognized for his commitment to
humanitarian causes. He actively supported initiatives aimed at addressing social issues, advocating for
human rights, and promoting equality. His contributions to humanitarian efforts left a lasting impact on
communities both within South Africa and globally.
Papi Khomane nicknamed “The Black Mamba” for his exceptional defensive skills, was a South African
professional footballer who played as a defender from 1993 to 2010, best known for playing for several
clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns. He also captained The Orlando
Pirates. Khomane’s achievements on the field are numerous and impressive. He won several league
titles, including three Premier Division titles with Kaizer Chiefs and one with Orlando Pirates.... morePapi Khomane nicknamed “The Black Mamba” for his exceptional defensive skills, was a South African
professional footballer who played as a defender from 1993 to 2010, best known for playing for several
clubs, including Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns. He also captained The Orlando
Pirates. Khomane’s achievements on the field are numerous and impressive. He won several league
titles, including three Premier Division titles with Kaizer Chiefs and one with Orlando Pirates. He also
won the CAF Confederation Cup with Mamelodi Sundowns in 2008. Additionally, Khomane was named
the PSL Defender of the Season in 2003/04 and was selected to the PSL Team of the Season on several
occasions. Khomane’s international career was equally impressive. He represented South Africa at the
2002 FIFA World Cup and the 2004 African Cup of Nations. He also played in several international
friendlies and was a member of the South African national team for over a decade. Off the field,
Khomane was known for his humility, kindness, and generosity. He was involved in several charitable
initiatives, including the Papi Khomane Foundation, which aimed to develop young football talent in
South Africa. Khomane was also a devoted husband and father.
Terence Frederick Venables was an English footballer and manager best known for playing for several
clubs, including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Queens Park Rangers. Venables's career began in the
summer of 1958 when signed for Chelsea as an apprentice at the age of 15. He made his professional
debut as a midfielder for Chelsea in 1960. He later joined Tottenham Hotspur, where he achieved great
success and played a key role in their 1963 European Cup Winners' Cup victory. His impressive
... moreTerence Frederick Venables was an English footballer and manager best known for playing for several
clubs, including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Queens Park Rangers. Venables's career began in the
summer of 1958 when signed for Chelsea as an apprentice at the age of 15. He made his professional
debut as a midfielder for Chelsea in 1960. He later joined Tottenham Hotspur, where he achieved great
success and played a key role in their 1963 European Cup Winners' Cup victory. His impressive
performances earned him two caps for the England national team in 1964. However, it was in the realm
of football management where Venables truly made his mark. He managed several clubs, including
Crystal Palace, Queens Park Rangers, and Barcelona. His most notable managerial achievement came
during his tenure as the head coach of the England national team from 1994 to 1996. Venables led the
England team to the semi-finals of the UEFA Euro 1996 tournament, held on home soil. The team's
captivating run, marked by a memorable victory against the Netherlands, united the nation and
rekindled the passion for football in England. Venables also had success as a television expect and a
football consultant. Venables won numerous awards during his career including Don Balón Award of
1985 and was inducted in the English Hall of fame in 1997.
Johannes Jacobus “Hannes” Strydom was a prominent South African rugby union player, best known for
playing for the South Africa national rugby union team that lifted the World Cup in a historic victory a
year after the end of apartheid in 1995. Strydom’s career began in 1983 where he represented the
Eastern Province Schools team. It was not until 1989 that he represented Northern Transvaal that later
became the Golden Lions. Strydom made his debut for the Springboks in 1993, and helped defea... moreJohannes Jacobus “Hannes” Strydom was a prominent South African rugby union player, best known for
playing for the South Africa national rugby union team that lifted the World Cup in a historic victory a
year after the end of apartheid in 1995. Strydom’s career began in 1983 where he represented the
Eastern Province Schools team. It was not until 1989 that he represented Northern Transvaal that later
became the Golden Lions. Strydom made his debut for the Springboks in 1993, and helped defeat arch-
rivals New Zealand 15-12 in the 1995 World Cup final in Johannesburg, the biggest sporting event in
South Africa after the end of apartheid. He ended his Springbok career in 1997 after playing in the
British and Irish Lions series after earning 21 Springbok caps in his career between 1993 and 1997.
Strydom also captained the Lions team that hoisted the local Currie Cup trophy in 1999. He made 115
appearances for the team between 1993 and 2000. Outside rugby, Strydom worked as a pharmacist in
the capital, Pretoria, and started pharmacy chain Pharma Valu after hanging up his boots. Hannes
Strydom’s impact on South African rugby extended beyond his playing days, as he continued to inspire
future generations of rugby players.
George Chigova was a talented and dedicated Zimbabwean football player best known for playing as a
goalkeeper for Premier Soccer League club SuperSport United. Chigova began his professional career
with Harare-based club, Dynamos FC, before moving to South Africa to join Mamelodi Sundowns FC in
2011. From then on he went on to play for SuperSport United and Polokwane City. Throughout his
career, Chigova was known for his exceptional goalkeeping skills, quick reflexes, and unwavering
commitm... moreGeorge Chigova was a talented and dedicated Zimbabwean football player best known for playing as a
goalkeeper for Premier Soccer League club SuperSport United. Chigova began his professional career
with Harare-based club, Dynamos FC, before moving to South Africa to join Mamelodi Sundowns FC in
2011. From then on he went on to play for SuperSport United and Polokwane City. Throughout his
career, Chigova was known for his exceptional goalkeeping skills, quick reflexes, and unwavering
commitment to the game. He was a vital member of the Zimbabwean national team, earning 45 caps
and representing his country in several international tournaments, including the 2019 Africa Cup of
Nations. Chigova’s achievements on the pitch were numerous and impressive. He won several league
titles with Dynamos FC and Mamelodi Sundowns FC, and was named the PSL Goalkeeper of the Season
in 2014/15. He also won the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns FC in 2016, and was
named to the CAF Team of the Year the same year. Off the pitch, Chigova was equally impressive. He
was known for his kind heart and generosity, and was involved in various charitable initiatives
throughout his career. He was also a devoted family man, and his love for his wife and children was well-
documented.
Raphael Dwamena was a talented Ghanaian professional footballer best known for playing for the
Ghana international football team and the Spanish league system. He made a significant impact in the
world of soccer during his career as a striker. Dwamena began his career with the Red Bull Ghana
developmental program where he played and trained. In 2014 he joined the Salzburg youth team and
immediately made an impact. In one tournament he scored seven goals in four games winning the
Golden Shoe... moreRaphael Dwamena was a talented Ghanaian professional footballer best known for playing for the
Ghana international football team and the Spanish league system. He made a significant impact in the
world of soccer during his career as a striker. Dwamena began his career with the Red Bull Ghana
developmental program where he played and trained. In 2014 he joined the Salzburg youth team and
immediately made an impact. In one tournament he scored seven goals in four games winning the
Golden Shoe. The following month, Dwamena was promoted to FC Liefering, the Salzburg farm team
playing in the Austrian Football First League. During his career, Dwamena went on to play for clubs in
Spain, Switzerland, Austria and Denmark. He had also been the leading scorer in the Albanian league this
season with nine goals before his untimely death. Internationally Dwamena made nine appearances for
Ghana and scored two goals. In 2017 he was diagnosed with a heart condition when he was set to join
the English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion, the deal failed through because of it. Although he was advised to retire from football because of his heart condition he persisted and continued to play. His commitment to excellence and sportsmanship served as an inspiration to fans and fellow athletes alike, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of many.
Rahman Gumbo born Rahman Allen Thuthani Gumbo was a highly influential figure in Zimbabwean
football, best known for his football career as both a player and a manager. His contributions to the
beautiful game have left an indelible mark on the football landscape in Zimbabwe and beyond. As a
player, Gumbo showcased exceptional talent and skill, earning accolades for his prowess on the field. He
played for Highlanders from 1987 to 1995 and also appeared on the international stage playing for t... moreRahman Gumbo born Rahman Allen Thuthani Gumbo was a highly influential figure in Zimbabwean
football, best known for his football career as both a player and a manager. His contributions to the
beautiful game have left an indelible mark on the football landscape in Zimbabwe and beyond. As a
player, Gumbo showcased exceptional talent and skill, earning accolades for his prowess on the field. He
played for Highlanders from 1987 to 1995 and also appeared on the international stage playing for the
Zimbabwe national team. His dedication and passion for the sport were evident in every match he
played, inspiring countless fans and aspiring footballers. Gumbo’s commitment to excellence and
sportsmanship set him apart as a true icon of Zimbabwean football. After retiring, Gumbo transitioned
into management. He started off managing FC Platinum in 2011 to 2012 and during that very same year
he was appointed as the manager for the Zimbabwe national team. Gumbo went to manage other
teams such as Zimbabwe Premier League club Chicken Inn, Botswana Premier League club Gaborone
United, Witbank Spurs and Morupule Wanderers. He made waves, guiding teams to success with his
strategic acumen and deep understanding of the game. Gumbo’s impact as a manager reverberated
throughout the sport, shaping the careers of numerous players and shaping the future of Zimbabwean
football.
Walter Pearl Davis was an American basketball player best known for playing professionally as a
forward/guard for 15 years in the National Basketball Association (NBA), spending the majority of his
career with the Phoenix Suns. Davis attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he
played college basketball under legendary coach Dean Smith. During his time at UNC, Davis showcased
impressive performances which earned him numerous accolades, including being named an All-
Ame... moreWalter Pearl Davis was an American basketball player best known for playing professionally as a
forward/guard for 15 years in the National Basketball Association (NBA), spending the majority of his
career with the Phoenix Suns. Davis attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he
played college basketball under legendary coach Dean Smith. During his time at UNC, Davis showcased
impressive performances which earned him numerous accolades, including being named an All-
American in 1977. In 1977, Davis was selected as the fifth overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Phoenix
Suns. He quickly made an impact in the league, earning the nickname “Sweet D” for his silky shooting
touch. Throughout his career with the Suns, Davis consistently demonstrated his scoring prowess and
became one of the team’s all-time leading scorers. During his tenure with the Suns, Davis achieved
several notable milestones. He was selected to six NBA All-Star Games, a two-time All-NBA Second Team
member, and the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1978. Throughout his retirement years, Davis remained
involved in basketball as a coach and mentor to young players. In 1994, the Suns retired his No. 6 jersey
and in 2004 he was enshrined in the team's Ring of Honor.
Bonginkosi Ntuli was a South African professional soccer player best known for playing for AmaZulu as a
striker, he was also the captain of the club. Ntuli began his career in the Vodacom League with Sobantu
Shooting Stars before joining the Golden Arrows reserve team in 2012. Initially he played for AmaZulu
whilst on loan in 2015 but later became a permanent player up to his death in 2023. Ntuli showcased
exceptional skills and abilities on the cryfield. His agility, speed, and precision in... moreBonginkosi Ntuli was a South African professional soccer player best known for playing for AmaZulu as a
striker, he was also the captain of the club. Ntuli began his career in the Vodacom League with Sobantu
Shooting Stars before joining the Golden Arrows reserve team in 2012. Initially he played for AmaZulu
whilst on loan in 2015 but later became a permanent player up to his death in 2023. Ntuli showcased
exceptional skills and abilities on the cryfield. His agility, speed, and precision in front of the goal made
him a formidable force to be reckoned with. Ntuli’s achievements include being a key player for
AmaZulu, whose contributions helped the team secure important victories and climb up the league
standings. Ntuli’s ability to find the back of the net consistently made him a fan favorite and earned him
widespread admiration from supporters across South Africa. In addition to his club success, Ntuli also
represented his country at the international level where he played for the South African national team.
Ntuli’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the field. He was known for his humility,
sportsmanship, and dedication to giving back to his community. Off the pitch, he actively participated in
charitable initiatives and used his platform to inspire young aspiring soccer players.
Robert Montgomery Knight, nicknamed "the General" was an American legendary men’s basketball
coach, best known for winning three NCAA titles at Indiana. He retired with sport’s all-time victories
record. Knight's coaching career began in 1965 when he took over as the head coach of the Army Black
Knights. He quickly made a name for himself by implementing a disciplined and structured approach to
the game. In 1971, Knight moved to Indiana University, where he achieved his greatest successes.
... moreRobert Montgomery Knight, nicknamed "the General" was an American legendary men’s basketball
coach, best known for winning three NCAA titles at Indiana. He retired with sport’s all-time victories
record. Knight's coaching career began in 1965 when he took over as the head coach of the Army Black
Knights. He quickly made a name for himself by implementing a disciplined and structured approach to
the game. In 1971, Knight moved to Indiana University, where he achieved his greatest successes.
During his tenure at Indiana, which lasted until 2000, Knight led the Hoosiers to three NCAA
championships (1976, 1981, 1987). night's ability to develop players and instill a strong work ethic in
them was evident through the numerous NBA stars that emerged from his program. However, Knight's
coaching career was not without controversy. His fiery temper and confrontational style often landed
him in hot water. He was known for his outbursts towards players, referees, and even reporters. These
incidents tarnished his reputation and led to several disciplinary actions throughout his career. Despite
the controversies, Knight amassed an impressive record of 902 wins and 371 losses during his coaching
career, making him one of the winningest coaches in college basketball history. Knight was inducted into
the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991.
