Branko Zebec
Football player and coach; managed Bayern Munich
Played professional football primarily as a midfielder. His career began in the 1940s and extended into the 1960s, representing clubs such as Hajduk Split and FC Bayern Munich. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, taking charge of various teams, most notably Bayern Munich. Achieved success as a coach in the 1970s, leading Bayern to multiple league titles and a European Cup victory.
Played for Hajduk Split and Bayern Munich
Coached Bayern Munich to a European Cup win
Other People Born on May 17th
Andrew Farrar
Rugby league player and coach
Born
May 17th, 1962 63 years ago
Played rugby league and later transitioned into coaching. Representative for Australia in the 1986 World Cup. Started professional career with the Penrith Panthers in 1981 and represented New South Wales in State of Origin matches. Coached teams post-retirement, contributing to development within the sport.
Continue ReadingCaroline of Brunswick
Queen consort of King George IV
Born
May 17th, 1768 257 years ago
Died
1821 204 years ago — 53 years old
Born on May 17, 1768, Caroline of Brunswick became the queen consort of King George IV of the United Kingdom. Marriage to George IV occurred in 1795, and the union was tumultuous, marked by personal and political strife. Many public controversies surrounded her, especially regarding their separation in 1814 and subsequent trials that captured public attention. In 1820, George IV attempted to exclude her from his coronation. However, Caroline made a dramatic entrance and was denied entry, which further heightened her popularity among the public. She lived in Italy for the latter part of her life until her death in 1821.
Continue ReadingChristine Nesbitt
Speed skater and Olympic champion
Born
May 17th, 1985 40 years ago
A speed skater from Canada, recognized for achievements in long track speed skating. Competed at the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver, capturing a gold medal in the 1000 meters event. Additionally participated in the 2014 Winter Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the 1500 meters. Earned multiple medals at the World Cup level and set various national records during a prominent career in the sport.
Continue ReadingCharlie Gubb
Rugby league player for New Zealand
Born
May 17th, 1990 35 years ago
Played rugby league in New Zealand and Australia. Represented the Junior Kiwis and played professionally in the National Rugby League (NRL) for the Penrith Panthers and the Auckland Warriors. Contributed to team strategies and performance on the field. Known for playing in the forward position, demonstrating strength and skill in competitive matches.
Continue ReadingChristine Ohuruogu
Olympic Gold Medalist Runner
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A prominent runner specialized in the 400 meters. Won the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and also secured a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Achieved significant success at the World Championships, securing multiple titles and medals throughout the career. Competed for Great Britain in various international competitions, achieving personal bests and establishing a reputation as a leading athlete in the discipline.
Continue ReadingChristian Bolaños
Costa Rican footballer and national team player
Born
May 17th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer from Costa Rica, contributions included significant stints in both domestic and international leagues. Played primarily as a winger, spending time at clubs such as Saprissa, where multiple league titles were secured. Gained experience in international competitions, representing the national team with appearances in the FIFA World Cup and CONCACAF Gold Cup. Known for speed and skill on the ball, which helped elevate team performance during crucial matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 26th
Iva Toguri D'Aquino
American broadcaster and wartime broadcaster
Born
July 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1916 in Los Angeles, a typist and broadcaster became an infamous voice during World War II. While in Japan, she worked for the Japanese government as a radio broadcaster, adopting the on-air persona of 'Tokyo Rose'. This role involved broadcasting propaganda targeted at Allied troops. Post-war, legal issues arose concerning accusations of treason, which led to a highly publicized trial. Ultimately, the conviction was overturned decades later, acknowledging significant procedural flaws in the original trial.
Continue ReadingMarc Moulin
Belgian keyboard player and producer
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
A keyboard player, producer, and journalist was influential in the Belgian music scene. Active in the 1970s and 1980s, contributed to various genres including jazz, funk, and electronic music. Founded the band Placebo, which released several acclaimed albums. Produced and collaborated with other notable artists, enriching the Belgian music landscape.
Continue ReadingBetty Carter
Jazz Singer and Songwriter
Born
May 16th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1998 27 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent jazz singer and songwriter, known for unique vocal improvisation and a distinctive style that blended traditional and contemporary jazz. Established a career in music that spanned several decades, contributing to the genre’s evolution. Gained prominence in the 1970s and formed her own record label, Bet-Car Productions, allowing for greater creative control over her work. Released acclaimed albums that showcased her original compositions and arrangements. Mentored young jazz musicians through workshops and performances.
Continue ReadingAna Seneviratne
Sri Lankan police officer and diplomat
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a police officer in Sri Lanka, specializing in law enforcement and public safety. Transitioned to a diplomatic role, representing Sri Lankan interests internationally. Worked in various capacities to foster international relations and improve security collaboration. Contributed to the enhancement of police standards and practices within the nation. Died in 2015, leaving behind a legacy in both law enforcement and diplomacy.
Continue ReadingWilliam Billings
American composer, educator, and musician
Born
October 7th, 1746 279 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1800 225 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1746, an American composer and educator contributed significantly to the development of choral music in America. He is recognized as one of the first American composers to create a distinctively American musical style, synthesizing European traditions with American folk themes. Billings published a number of works, becoming a founding figure in the American choral tradition. His most famous collection, 'The New-England Psalm-Singer,' featured psalm tunes and anthems widely used in congregations. Billings also worked as a singing school master, teaching numerous students in the Boston area and influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingTerry Newton
Rugby player and coach
Born
1978 47 years ago
Died
September 26th, 2010 15 years ago — 32 years old
Played professional rugby for teams including the Leeds Rhinos, Huddersfield Giants, and Wakefield Trinity. Had a successful career in the Super League and earned international caps representing England. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, focusing on youth development and grassroots rugby. Faced challenges with personal health issues throughout career.
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