Podcasts about Forgotten Heroes

A name so few know ... Danny Gardella. Gardella played for the New York (baseball) Giants (now the #SFGiants) in 1944 and 1945. Then he battled management about his salary. Instead of accepting what the Giants offered, he challenged the reserve clause and lost. Rather than accept the terms, he opted to play elsewhere, in the Mexican League. It cost Danny his career. Banned from the Majors, Gardella did get one more opportunity to play in the Majors, with the St. Louis #Cardinals in 1950. But he only appeared in one game, and that was it. The Cardinals didn't see a future for Danny on their roster, demoted him to AA, and Danny never saw the light of day in Major League Baseball game again. Of course, those that followed and who challenged the reserve met with much more success, such as Curt Flood and Andy Messersmith. The free agents of today do not have to work within the confines of the reserve clause. But Danny did, and while he won a small sum of money in a lawsuit against #MLB, he lost his entire career. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, we take a look back at the brief career of Danny Gardella and his fight with MLB and the New York Giants about the reserve clause with my guest Robert Elias who authored the book, "Dangerous Danny Gardella."

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

n the early 1900s Roger Bresnahan was one of MLB's best catchers. He played for the New York Giants (now San Francisco Giants) and later was player-manager for the St. Louis Cardinals. While with the Giants, Bresnahan was beaned. It was a very scary instance in which Bresnahan's last rites were read. However, he survived and came back. He ultimately developed a batting helmet, but never wore it in a game. Another piece of equipment Bresnahan introduced was shin guards. Yes, Roger Bresnahan was not only one of baseball's great catchers, he was an innovator too! Perhaps, though, one of his finest moments occurred off the field. During a trip from Philadelphia to Boston, while he was with St. Louis, the train the Cardinals were on derailed and fell down an embankment. Miraculously, none of the Cardinals' players were hurt. However, several on the train died as a result of the crash. Bresnahan and the Cardinals did all they could to help rescue people from the catastrophic incident. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, author John R. Husman, "Roger Bresnahan: A Baseball Life," joins the show for a terrific discussion about this Hall of Fame catcher and the baseball life he led.

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Maybelle (May) Blair is a baseball pioneer. In the movie, "A League of Their Own," Madonna's character was named after Maybelle, Mae Morabito. However, the character Madonna played was nothing like the real May. May did not join the AAGPBL (All-America Girls Professional Baseball League) until it was firmly established. But along the way, May certainly made her mark in baseball and softball. She played highly-competitive softball on the west coast, was discovered by a scout looking for great talent for a women's professional softball team, the Chicago Cardinals who were owned by the same Charles Bidwell who owned the NFL's Chicago Cardinals, and she made such an impression on everyone, that she ultimately wound up in the AAGPBL with the Peoria Redwings. While her career on the diamond is truly something to marvel at, today at the age of 95, she's still going strong making appearances and signing autographs, and remains a proponent of omen's professional baseball. In fact, there is a women's professional baseball league set to launch in May 2026. May's off the field life is also quite remarkable. And on today's episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, Kat Williams, author of the book, "All the Way," a biography on May, joins the show to discuss the life of this baseball pioneer.

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

In 1924, the Washington Nationals (they were the Nationals, but also referred to as the Senators) won their first-ever World Series. It was a remarkable season for the Nationals. Owner Clark Griffith dismissed manager Donnie Bush just after the 1923 campaign and named Bucky Harris player-manager. It was a huge risk. Harris was only 27 years old and had only played four years in @MLB . How would the veterans on the team respond to taking orders from someone so young? What kind of experience and knowledge did such a young ballplayer possess? To the surprise of many, everyone accepted him, even aging veterans such as Roger Peckinpaugh and Walter Johnson. In fact, Johnson, who was coming off the first arm injury of his career, was hoping to rebound in his age-36 season, in what was supposed to be the final season of his career. Not only did "The Big Train" rebound he went 23-7 and won the MVP. He was sensational. Everything fell into place for Washington in 1924. A perennial second-division team, the Nats/Sens surprised everyone, won the American League, and then defeated the heavily favored New York Giants in the World Series to capture their first and only World Series Championship. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, author Gary Sarnoff who wrote the book, "A Team of Destiny," joins the show for a wonderful discussion of a team that time has forgotten, the 1924 Washington Nationals (Senators).In this enlightening discussion, the focus shifts to the extraordinary 1924 Washington Senators, a team that defied expectations and emerged victorious in the World Series. The podcast intricately details key players such as Bucky Harris, the young player-manager, and Walter Johnson, a legendary pitcher who made a remarkable comeback after an injury. Their contributions are highlighted as the episode explores the dynamics within the team and the strategies employed by management. The narrative encapsulates the essence of teamwork, perseverance, and the spirit of competition that characterized this historic season. Listeners gain insight into the societal and cultural impact of this team's success amidst the backdrop of early 20th-century America, making it a compelling narrative that transcends the realm of sports.Takeaways: The Washington Nationals, originally known as the Senators, have a complex and storied history in Major League Baseball, marked by numerous team changes and relocations. The 1924 season was significant for the Washington Nationals, culminating in their first World Series championship, a feat that remains a historic highlight for the franchise. Walter Johnson, one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, finally achieved his lifelong dream of winning a World Series game during the 1924 championship series. Bucky Harris, at the age of 27, became the youngest manager to lead a team to a World Series victory, demonstrating exceptional leadership and resilience throughout the season. The support of the Washington fans, coupled with the team's unexpected success, created an electrifying atmosphere during the 1924 World Series, showcasing the city's deep connection to baseball. The narrative of the 1924 Washington Nationals reflects themes of perseverance and redemption, particularly through the careers of Walter Johnson and Bucky Harris. Companies mentioned in this episode: Washington Nationals Washington Senators Montreal Expos Texas Rangers Minnesota Twins American League National League

Wednesday Adult Bible Class

Connie Hawkins, simply stated, was a phenomenal basketball player. Inducted into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992, his career was robbed of five years of his NBA career. And not just any five, the first five. Hawkins was a legend on the playground in New York City. Recruited to play college ball at the University of Iowa, he was wrongfully accused of being involved in a point-shaving scandal that ultimately cost him his college career, which then led to him being banned by the NBA. Instead, Hawkins hooked on with the newly formed ABL (American Basketball League) and the Pittsburgh Rens. However, the ABL didn't make it through its second season. From the ABL, Hawkins wound up playing with the Harlem Globetrotters and then found his way to another startup basketball league, the ABA (American Basketball Association). and the Pittsburgh Pipers. Finally, after two years in the ABA, the NBA lifted the ban on Hawkins after it realized its ban on him wouldn't stand up in court, and Hawkins finally realized his lifelong dream, a career in the NBA. Many say Hawkins was Dr. J. before there was a Dr. J., and that's what the NBA missed, and that's what Hawkins was robbed of. A no-doubt first-round talent, Hawkins made his way to the Phoenix Suns and wound up averaging 24.6 PPG in his first year with the team. But, by then, knee injuries had slowed him down. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, author Mark Whited joins the show along with Sean Hawkins, Connie's grandson, as we look back at the legendary career of the "Hawk."

Jim Gilliam was a terrific infielder for the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers for 17 years. After starting his career in the Negro Leagues, he followed in the footsteps of his idol, Jackie Robinson. Signed by the Dodgers, like Robinson, he was sent to Montreal to play for the Royals. After a few seasons, he found his way to Brooklyn and was named Rookie of the Year in 1953. Gilliam, a favorite of Dodger manager Walter Alston, was called the ultimate team player. No matter where Alston needed him to play, Gilliam was up to the task. He was a terrific fielder and a career .266 hitter. Interestingly, though, Gilliam was always on the trading block and rarely got an opening day start because the Dodgers always thought they had someone better. But they didn't, and through it all, Gilliam was one of the most reliable infielders the team ever had. He played in seven World Series for the Dodgers and won four of them. He was so integral to the Dodgers' success that twice he was called out of retirement to help the team. After his playing days were over, Gilliam stayed a part of the organization by serving as a coach and was a member of three other Dodger teams that went to the World Series. In fact, Gilliam was so important to the franchise that his No. 19 was retired by the team. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, Steve Dittmore, author of "Jim Gilliam: The Forgotten Dodger," joins for a wonderful discussion about Gilliam, the challenges he faced, his career, and so much more.

Arch Ward was a visionary. Sports editor of the Chicago Tribune during the 30s and 40s, Ward is the founder of several marquee sporting events. He created the MLB (Major League Baseball) All-Star Game, he launched the Chicago Charities College All-Star Game, a series that last 42 years where a team of college all-stars played a "serious" exhibition game against the defending NFL Champion. He also created the AAFC (All-American Football Conference) which challenged the NFL from 1946 to 1949. Three teams from the AAFC still play today: the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and San Francisco 49ers. He also created the Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament. Ward was also a terrific writer and author. He got his start at his alma mater, Notre Dame, where he worked as a publicity man for the legendary Knute Rockne. Ward wielded power unlike many of his contemporaries, and made long-lasting contributions to the world of sports. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, I take a look back at his amazing career with author/radio host/sports' historian Gary Webster. Gary has written books on the AAFC, the NHL's Cleveland Barons, the Browns and the Cleveland Indians (Guardians).

Trailblazer Anne Montgomery joins Papamutes to share her remarkable journey from breaking barriers in sports journalism to uncovering forgotten stories of World War II servicemen. Her latest novel, "Your Forgotten Sons," offers a poignant exploration of history inspired by letters over seven decades old. Discover how Sergeant Bud Richardville's role in the Graves Registration Service during WWII and his personal life serve as a tribute to unsung heroes. Anne's storytelling prowess breathes life into historical fiction, inviting listeners to reflect on the sacrifices of those who often go unnoticed.Anne's candid recounting of her career highlights the resilience required to succeed in a male-dominated industry. From high school hurdles to her groundbreaking work at ESPN, Anne's experiences underscore the importance of perseverance and creativity. She shares anecdotes of athletes like Manute Bol and Jim Abbott, whose kindness and determination impacted her journey. Anne's insights into the evolving media landscape reveal the challenges and triumphs of pioneering women in broadcasting, offering inspiration to the next generation.Join us for an engaging conversation with Anne Montgomery, a storyteller who seamlessly blends journalism with historical fiction.Send Papamutes a TextListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Castro, Google Podcasts or wherever you stream your podcasts.

Vandal Savage tries to turn Metropolis prehistoric, and it's up to the Forgotten Heroes to stop him! Yeah, it stinks.

The coaches welcome the Class 2A, Class 3A and Class 4A state championship coaches.  The coaches give their take on the Mr Football race and the tough topic.  Plus another Forgotten Heroes that looks back at a state title fluke.

This week the coaches welcome the great Breathitt County coach, Mike Holcomb to the show.  Plus another tough topic, the picks for the Ky championship week and another great Forgotten Heroes.

George Allen is one of the NFL's legendary coaches. So, to call him a "forgotten hero" is not exactly accurate. Certainly, most avid football fans know about his colorful career as the head coach of the Washington Redskins, and some might even remember him as the head coach of the Los Angeles Rams. But few know the "behind-the-scenes" story of George Allen and his journey to becoming the legend he was. The fact that he actually offered to pay University of Michigan coach Fritz Crisler for the opportunity to coach. Or, his falling out with Chicago Bears owner/head coach George Halas. Few know that George Allen actually traded the same draft pick to two different teams or that he was a good friend of three different U.S. Presidents. His paranoia when it came to the press or his disdain for seeing trash littered about the practice facility. Allen might actually be the "father" of film study. No one studied it like George Allen. And his attention to Special Teams was way ahead of his time. Allen knew more about the opponent than the opponent knew about themselves. He was an incredible strategist, and his knowledge of the game was the proverbial second to none. If there was a weakness in Allen's method of coaching, most would point to his reliance on veteran players and his reluctance to play rookies or younger players. When you examine the career of George Allen, and you see his incredible winning percentage during the regular season vs. his 2-7 record in the playoffs, you scratch your head and wonder why. Well, it might just have been that reliance on veteran players. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, I get into all of that with my guest, Mike Richman. Mike is somewhat of an expert when it comes to the Washington Redskins (now the Commanders), and his latest book, "George Allen: A Football Life," is absolutely fantastic, and we discuss a lot of it here on Sports' Forgotten Heroes.The examination of George Allen's coaching career reveals a man driven by a profound love for football and an unwavering commitment to winning. The podcast captures the essence of Allen's coaching philosophy, which revolved around discipline, strategy, and a deep understanding of the game. His relationships with players were complex, characterized by both admiration and criticism, particularly regarding his intense coaching style and strict policies. The episode further delves into the intricacies of Allen's time with the Rams, detailing how his innovative defensive schemes and emphasis on special teams were revolutionary for the era, yet how these same traits sometimes alienated him from those he coached. Richmond articulates the paradox of Allen's career: a coach who never experienced a losing season yet struggled to translate regular-season success into playoff victories. The discussion invites listeners to consider the broader implications of Allen's story, exploring themes of ambition, legacy, and the quest for greatness against the backdrop of a fiercely competitive sport.George Allen's legacy in professional football is a tapestry woven with threads of brilliance, controversy, and resilience. The podcast offers a detailed narrative of his rise from a young, ambitious coach to a figure synonymous with NFL coaching excellence. Listeners are taken through pivotal moments in Allen's life, including his unconventional methods of securing coaching positions—such as offering to pay for opportunities—demonstrating his relentless drive and creativity. The conversation also addresses the challenges Allen faced, including friction with players and management, which ultimately shaped his career trajectory. Special attention is given to his time with the Los Angeles Rams and Washington Redskins, where he employed a fierce competitive spirit that led to impressive regular-season records but often resulted in playoff disappointments. The episode serves as a reminder of Allen's significant contributions to the game, while

The coaches welcome legendary sportswriter Larry Vaught to the show.  Plus the tough topic, playoff picks and a new Forgotten Heroes segment

The coaches are joined by former UK star and current Banneker High Head Coach Braxton Kelley plus the tough topic, KHSAA playoffs and another Forgotten Heroes

In 1930 the NFL moved one of the original franchises from Dayton, Ohio to the borough of Brooklyn, New York and re-branded the "Triangles" to a very familiar name - Dodgers. Yes, that's right. From 1930 through the 1944 NFL season, the NFL placed a team in Brooklyn, Ebbets Field. Looking to capitalize on the same name as their baseball cousins, the Brooklyn FOOTBALL Dodgers had high hopes. In Dayton, the fact is, the community was too small to support an NFL team. The Triangles, as they were known in Dayton, played in a small stadium (5,000 seats) and couldn't sellout. Less than capacity crowds, financial struggles and the inability to attract the game's top talent, the NFL was left with no choice but to move the team in order to keep it alive. So, with baseball the No. 1 sport at that time and the NFL still trying to establish itself as a viable league, it was moving its franchises from small cities to larger metropolitan areas and tried to capitalize on names that would be instantly recognizable. But, it didn't always work out, and the football-Dodgers are an example of that. During the team's 15-year stay in Brooklyn, only five times did it finish at .500 or above. The Dodgers never won their division and never appeared in a post-season game. They also struggled at the gate. So, after the 1944 season (in which they had renamed themselves the Brooklyn Tigers), they packed up and moved to Boston and merged with the Yanks. Amazingly, the Dodgers actually still exist today. Yes, this franchise is still in the NFL and on this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes we explore it all with guest Roger Godin who several years ago wrote a fascinating book that looks back at the history of this long-forgotten team, "The Brooklyn Football Dodgers, The Other "Bums."

The coaches guest is Bryan Station Coach Phil Hawkins plus the tough topic, playoff games and the Forgotten Heroes.

Before there was an NBA, before there was a BAA, professional basketball looked a lot different than it does today. Back in the early 1900s, professional basketball was largely made up of regional leagues spread out across the country. A particular hotbed for these regional leagues was the Northeast. One of the leagues, the NEBL (New England Basketball League), was also one of the more progressive leagues. In fact, it was the first to allow "colored" players and leading the way was Harry "Bucky" Lew. Now known as the first African-American professional basketball player, Lew was also one of the game's stars. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, author Chris Boucher joins as we discuss the career of Bucky Lew, how these leagues were set up and what the game of basketball looked like back then. Chris, who wrote the book, "The Original Bucky Lew", and I discuss how different the ball was and how difficult it was to dribble the ball. How basketball courts were boxed in by chicken wire, so there was no out-of-bounds, there were no backboards, and fouling a player and the free-throws were no where near the same as they are in the game we watch today. But, the main focus is Lew. The racism he faced, how he played the game, how he continued to break down barriers such as becoming the first African-American to officiate a game, the first to coach a team and the first to own a team. Bucky Lew was certainly a pioneer and we dive into it all on this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes.

Mikey administers a test for Bill and Ben. Mikey admits to questionable office behavior in the 1990s. Mikey gets pulled over by the cops while driving his cop car. Mikey isn't impressed with baseball's biggest stars in the World Series. Mikey celebrates the forgotten members of the 2004 Red Sox. Castiglioke is a Loser baby. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The podcast delves into the remarkable career of Mel Hein, a legendary figure in NFL history known for his exceptional skills as both a center and a linebacker. Celebrated as one of the greatest centers of all time, Hein is the only offensive lineman to ever win the NFL MVP award, a testament to his extraordinary impact on the game. He played 15 years with the New York Giants, earning accolades such as being named to multiple All-Pro teams and being part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame's inaugural class. The discussion highlights Hein's athleticism, football IQ, and leadership qualities, which set him apart from his peers. Listeners will also learn about his unique journey, including how he transitioned from a player to a respected coach and official, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.When you think of NFL MVP's, you think of guys like Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, great quarterbacks, great running backs and, every once in a while, a great defensive player. But, an offensive lineman? They're never part of such conversations. Well, in 1938, center Mel Hein of the New York Giants was named as the league's MVP. He was that good! Hein joined the Giants after a terrific career at Washington State. From 1931 through 1945, Hein played center for the Giants and linebacker as well. In fact, not only was Hein a great center, Bronko Nagurski said Hein was the best linebacker he ever faced. Hein's game set the standard. Other centers, future Hall of Fame players, watched and learned from Hein. As early as his childhood, Hein was working on his craft, snapping the ball to his older brothers. Little did Hein know it would lead to a Hall of Fame career. Hein was part of the inaugural Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 1963, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954, he was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary Team and the NFL's 100th Anniversary Team; and is listed as the Giants 3rd Greatest player on their 100th Anniversary Team. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, author Chris Willis, Archivist at NFL Films, is back for a wonderful and fun discussion of one of football's forgotten - but - all-time greats, Mel Hein.

In this episode the coaches talk with Cooper High coach Randy Borchers, plus the tough topic and games of the week.  And make sure to listen to the Forgotten Heroes.

Chuck Foreman was one of the NFL's most feared fullback's of the 1970s. In fact, he might have been the best fullback in the game during those years. Drafted in the 1973 first round by the Minnesota Vikings out of the University of Miami, Foreman was told by Vikings Head Coach Bud Grant that he would be the focal point of the Minnesota offense, but the way they would use him, despite the fact that he would rack up big numbers, he wouldn't get the recognition he deserved. Grant was right. Over the course of Foreman's 8-year career, he he combined to rush for and catch passes for 9,106-yards. He scored 76 touchdowns, in 1973 he led the NFL in receptions with 73. He was the 1973 Offensive Rookie of the Year, First Team All-Pro in 1975, Pro Bowl in 1973, 74, 75, 76. Led the Vikings to three NFC Championships and played in three Super Bowls. yet, with all of those accolades, somehow, Foreman's accomplishments got lost in the shuffle. Somehow, his numbers did not impress the right people and despite the fact that his numbers are better than such Hall of Famers as Terrell David, Marion Motley, Larry Csonka, and others, Foreman was never considered for the Hall of Fame. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, Chuck joins for a discussion on his great career, the Hall of Fame and some very fun stories.

In 1946, a new professional football league launched - The All America Football Conference (AAFC) and the strongest team created was the Cleveland Browns. It was filled with superstars and an eventual legend at coach - Paul Brown. In the backfield was another budding superstar, Marion Motley. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 232-pounds was, by today's standards, not exactly HUGE. But, in 1946, 6-foot-1, 232-pounds was very intimidating. Motley steamrolled the opposition during his playing days and led the Browns to the AAFC's first-ever Championship. But he didn't stop there. In fact, Motley was a catalyst for the Browns who also won the AAFC i1947, '48 & '49. The Browns moved to the NFL in 1950, and again, they won the championship with Motley leading the charge out of the backfield. Cleveland also played for the NFL Championship in 1951, '52 & '53, and although they lost each of those championships, Motley still was a key ingredient in helping Cleveland reach those title games. His career was shortened by knee injuries. Overall, he played eight full seasons and averaged over 5-yards a carry and scored 31 touchdowns. During that period of time, the great NFL players lined up on both sides of the line of scrimmage and Motley did so as a linebacker. In fact, he picked off two passes during his career, one of which was a 48-yard pick-six. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, we take a look back at the Hall of Fame career of Marion Motley with George Bozeka, President of the Professional Football Researcher's Association.