What Happened This Year 1980

Born in 1980

Damien Wilkins

American basketball player, NBA career
Born
January 11th, 1980 45 years ago

Played professional basketball primarily as a shooting guard and small forward. Spent time in the NBA, with notable moments arising from stints with the Seattle SuperSonics and the Atlanta Hawks. Completed a successful tenure in the NBA Development League, showcasing skills and contributing significantly to team performance. Transitioned to play internationally in various leagues across the globe, gaining further experience in the sport.

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Bobby Crosby

Baseball player and Rookie of the Year
Born
January 12th, 1980 45 years ago

A professional baseball player, recognized for playing as a shortstop. Made debut in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Oakland Athletics in 2003. Achieved the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2004. Played for the Athletics until 2010, showcasing a combination of defensive skills and offensive contributions during his tenure. Later played with the Pittsburgh Pirates and concluded MLB career with the 2011 season. Featured in MLB All-Star Rookie Teams, highlighting strong performance in initial years. After retiring as a player, transitioned into a coaching role, contributing to the development of younger players.

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Amerie

Singer-songwriter with '1 Thing'
Born
January 12th, 1980 45 years ago

An American singer-songwriter, producer, and writer emerged in the early 2000s, gaining prominence with the release of the hit single '1 Thing' from the album 'Touch.' This work showcased a distinctive blend of R&B and hip-hop elements. The artist's debut album, 'All I Have,' also received critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination. Beyond music, involvement in writing and production illustrated versatility and creativity in the entertainment industry.

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Krzysztof Czerwiński

Polish organist and conductor
Born
January 13th, 1980 45 years ago

An organist and conductor, frequently performed at prestigious festivals and events throughout Europe. Developed a reputation for excellence in organ repertoire and choral conducting. Collaborated with numerous orchestras and choirs, focusing on both classical and contemporary works. Served as an educator, teaching at various institutions while also leading church music programs.

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Akira Kaji

Japanese footballer
Born
January 13th, 1980 45 years ago

A professional footballer from Japan, played primarily as a defender. Played for the club Vissel Kobe and later moved to the J.League team Yokohama F. Marinos. Had a notable international career, representing Japan in multiple competitions including the AFC Asian Cup.

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Wolfgang Loitzl

Austrian ski jumper Olympic medalist
Born
January 13th, 1980 45 years ago

Competed in ski jumping, primarily in the 2000s. Secured a gold medal in the team event at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Achieved numerous podium finishes in World Cup events while representing Austria. Notable for contributions to the Austrian ski jumping team.

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Nils-Eric Johansson

Swedish footballer and defender
Born
January 13th, 1980 45 years ago

Played as a defender and contributed to several successful football clubs and national teams. Competed in numerous domestic leagues and European competitions, showcasing strong defensive skills and tactical awareness. Represented Sweden in international tournaments, earning caps and experience on the global stage. Had a significant club career in the Allsvenskan and spent time playing in the lower divisions of professional football.

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Byron Leftwich

American football quarterback and coach
Born
January 14th, 1980 45 years ago

Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Achieved recognition while leading the Jaguars, notably during the 2003 season when the team reached the playoffs. Transitioned to coaching, serving as an offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contributing to their victory in Super Bowl LV.

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Cory Gibbs

Soccer player with U.S. National Team
Born
January 14th, 1980 45 years ago

Professional soccer player participated in Major League Soccer (MLS) and represented the United States National Team. Played as a defender with several MLS teams including the Chicago Fire, New England Revolution, and FC Dallas. Competed in prestigious international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup. Career included a tenure in Europe with clubs such as FC St. Pauli in Germany. Gibbs was recognized for defensive skills and contributions to the teams and National Team.

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