Aubrey Faulkner
Cricketer and coach for South Africa
Born
Died
1930
96 years ago — 49 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
South Africa
Links & References
Played cricket for South Africa between 1906 and 1924, earning a reputation as a successful all-rounder. Contributed significantly as a coach after his playing career, helping to develop future talent in South African cricket. Participated in the inaugural Test match against England in 1889. His strategic insights as a coach influenced the game during his time in the sport.
Played in 26 Test matches for South Africa
Scored over 1,100 runs in Test cricket
Coached the South African national cricket team
Other People Born on December 17th
Maria I of Portugal
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December 17th, 1734 291 years ago
Died
1816 210 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1734, Maria I ascended to the Portuguese throne in 1777, becoming the first woman to rule the country in her own right. Her reign was marked by political upheaval, including the loss of Brazil, which declared independence in 1822. Maria faced personal challenges, including mental health issues that affected her ability to govern. After 1792, her son took on the duties of regent due to her declining health. Despite these challenges, her influence on Portuguese culture and society during her reign remains notable.
Continue ReadingSimo Häyhä
Finland's legendary World War II sniper
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December 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
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A Finnish soldier achieved significant notoriety during the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. Renowned for exceptional marksmanship skills, recorded over 500 confirmed kills as a sniper. Utilized a Finnish M28/30 rifle and took advantage of the winter landscape to conceal movements. Adopted a strategy that involved minimizing exposure and maximizing stealth, earning the nickname 'White Death.' Survived serious injuries and continued to lead a private life after the war until passing away in 2002.
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Ice hockey player and coach, 'Sochi 1992'
Born
December 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
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A professional ice hockey player and coach, played in the Soviet Union and later in the NHL. Competed for the Soviet national team, participating in multiple international tournaments, including the 1992 Winter Olympics, where the team earned a gold medal. Transitioned to a coaching role after retirement, focusing on developing young players. Coached various teams in the Russian leagues and contributed to the growth of ice hockey in the region.
Continue ReadingCal Ripken Sr.
Baseball manager and coach of Orioles
Born
December 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 64 years old
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Continue ReadingIrving Petlin
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Born
December 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
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Continue ReadingPrince Rupert of the Rhine
Military leader and Royalist commander
Born
December 17th, 1619 406 years ago
Died
1682 344 years ago — 63 years old
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