Sports History Network

Al Rosen wasn’t just the American League MVP in 1953, he was one of the most dominant, driven, and intellectually fascinating figures the baseball has ever seen. In this episode of Sports’ Forgotten Heroes, we take a deeper look at the life and career of the “Flip,” a man whose peak was as powerful as almost any player of his era. From his rise with the Cleveland Indians to his extraordinary 1953 season, when he hit .336 with 43 home runs and 145 RBIs and came within a fraction of the Triple Crown, we examine what made Rosen not just great, but historically significant. But Rosen’s story goes far beyond numbers. The adversity he faced as a Jewish player in a time when antisemitism was far more overt, and the fierce, often intimidating intensity that shaped both his success and his reputation inside the clubhouse. Rosen was never a typical star. He was outspoken, highly intelligent, and unafraid to challenge authority, which made him both respected and, at times, misunderstood.

After his playing career was cut short by injuries, Rosen brought that same sharp mind to the front office, where he helped build winning organizations with the Yankees, Astros, and Giants. His impact on the game extended well beyond his playing days, influencing how teams evaluated talent and constructed rosters.

This episode goes beyond the highlight reel to tell the full story of a player who burned bright, battled through obstacles, and left a lasting imprint on baseball history. Al Rosen may not always be the first name mentioned among the greats, but by the end of this conversation, it’s clear he should be far from forgotten. Joseph Wancho, author of the book, "Hebrew Hammer, A Biography of Al Rosen, All-Star Third Baseman," joins the podcast for a wonderful conversation about one of baseball's greats.

In 1985, Villanova University did the improbable. As the 8th seed, they toppled the heavily favored Georgetown Hoyas, led by the player of the year, Patrick Ewing. They are still the lowest seeded team to win the NCAA Championship.

CREDITS

Rick Loayza: Head researcher, writer, and voice

Jacob Loayza: Editor, producer, and publisher

MUSIC

"Take Care" by Julian Avila

"Horizons" by Roa

SPORTS HISTORY NETWORK

sportshistorynetwork.com

sportshistorynetwork.com/podcasts/basketball-history-101/

FACEBOOK

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BUSINESS CONTACT

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Yesterday's Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS HOME PAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

Jim was a coach for the USA Olympic team in 1988 and 1992 and served as President of the US Weightlifting Federation from 1988 to 1996. From 1992 to 1996, he served on the Executive Board of the International Weightlifting Federation. He was inducted into the Weightlifting Hall of Fame in 2020.

You can read the full blog post here.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)

NO NONSENSE, OLD SCHOOL WEIGHTLIFTING HISTORY is presented by the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

Jim was a coach for the USA Olympic team in 1988 and 1992 and served as President of the US Weightlifting Federation from 1988 to 1996. From 1992 to 1996, he served on the Executive Board of the International Weightlifting Federation. He was inducted into the Weightlifting Hall of Fame in 2020.

You can read the full blog post here.

SHOW BACKGROUND

My name is Mark Morthier, and I host yesterday’s Sports on the Sports History Network. As many of you know from reading my articles and listening to my podcasts, I am not only an avid weightlifter but a fan of the sport as well. I’m excited to share my newest adventure, a show dedicated to promoting weightlifting, while also looking back at some weightlifting history. I’ll share some of my own stories and interview weightlifters from both past and present.

I competed in Olympic Weightlifting from 1981 to 1989 and powerlifting from 2011 to 2019. Although I wasn’t what one might call “a naturally gifted lifter,” I managed to clean & jerk 140 kilos/308 lbs at 179 lbs body weight. In my later years, I achieved a 600-pound deadlift and a 431-pound front squat in my mid-fifties. Although I was more successful in powerlifting, setting New Jersey and New York State records in Masters Competitions, I’ll always consider myself an Olympic Weightlifter. I’ve also written a book on weight training titled No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training, which is available on Amazon.

No Nonsense, Old School Weightlifting book (Amazon affiliate link)

I hope that you will enjoy the show, and please leave a comment or offer a suggestion. And if you’re an Olympic lifter, past or present, let me know if you’d like to set up an interview, and I’ll do my best to have you on the show. Stay strong and God bless!

CHECK OUT YESTERDAY'S SPORTS (MY ORIGINAL SHOW)

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

In 1974, the Philadelphia Flyers became the first expansion team to win the Stanley Cup.

In 1974, the Houston Aeros of the WHA won the AVCO Cup.

In 1991, Willie T. Ribbs became the first black driver to qualify for the Indianapolis 500.

In 1995, boxer Jimmy Garcia died 13 days after losing his bout with Gabriel Ruelas.

The focal point of this podcast episode is the historical significance of the Army-Navy football rivalry, particularly highlighting the events surrounding the 1905 game. We delve into the negotiations that transpired between the athletic directors of Army and Navy, Bull Halsey and Palmer E. Pierce, and the University of Pennsylvania, which hosted the game. The episode elucidates how ticket distribution conflicts led to the relocation of the game to Princeton and the subsequent logistical challenges that arose. Furthermore, we explore the profound impact both Halsey and Pierce had on the evolution of college football, particularly in relation to the establishment of the NCAA. Through this narrative, we bring to light the often-overlooked figures who played pivotal roles in shaping football history.

Today's conversation stems from one of Tim's Tidbits titled: Bull Halsey, Palmer E. Pierce, and the 1905 Army-Navy Game - https://www.footballarchaeology.com/p/bull-halsey-palmer-e-pierce-and-the

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

00:00 Welcome to the Pig Pen

01:54 The Army-Navy Rivalry: Origins and Early Years

07:32 The Evolution of Stadium Design

11:05 The Evolution of NCAA and Football Governance

13:23 Exploring Football Archaeology

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

The discourse presented delves into the historical tapestry of American football, specifically illuminating the significant rivalry between the Army and Navy football teams. The narrative commences with a reflection on the origins of this storied competition, tracing its inception back to 1890 when the two academies first clashed on the gridiron. The episode intricately explores the evolution of the Army-Navy game, emphasizing its transition from West Point and Annapolis to its eventual establishment in Philadelphia's Franklin Field, a venue that became synonymous with this prestigious match-up. As the rivalry burgeoned, the implications of ticket distribution emerged as a pivotal theme, underscoring the political and social dynamics that surrounded the event. Notably, the episode highlights the contentious negotiations that transpired between the organizers and the University of Pennsylvania, which had hosted the game but faced challenges in accommodating the increasing demand for tickets from influential stakeholders. The narrative crescendos as it recounts the 1905 game relocating to Princeton, an event that, while significant, ultimately faced its own logistical hurdles, thus underscoring the complexities involved in staging such a monumental sporting event. Furthermore, the conversation transitions into the lives of two central figures in this historical narrative: Bull Halsey and Palmer E. Pierce. Halsey, who would later ascend to prominence as a fleet admiral during World War II, serves as a representative of the Navy's athletic department during this pivotal juncture. In parallel, Pierce's role as the Army's athletic director is explored, revealing his influence in the early governance of college football, particularly through his involvement with the nascent NCAA. The episode posits that while these figures may not be household names today, their contributions to the sport and the organizational frameworks that govern it were foundational to the development of American football as we know it. Thus, the episode not only chronicles a significant rivalry but also encapsulates the intertwined destinies of key individuals whose legacies continue to resonate within the fabric of football history.

When Football Is Football is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of “When Football Was Football” on the Sports History Network, we are delighted to bring back the unique life, and amazing accomplishments, of one Wilfrid Russell Smith. Smith was the son of a wandering minister, enjoyed playing sports, and eventually accepted a starting sports writing job for the lofty pay of $10 per week. All three of those influences (travel, sports, and writing) helped Wilfrid to become not only an exceptional pro athlete, but also one of the most recognized and influential sports authorities in the world…and he was never shy about traveling around the globe to cover the next big story!

Read the entire episode blog post and check out some other cool info regarding this episode here.

WHEN FOOTBALL WAS FOOTBALL BACKGROUND

Each episode takes the listener back to the very early days of the National Football League. Author Joe Ziemba will share a forgotten or lost story from one of the NFL’s two oldest teams: The Bears and the Cardinals. Team championships, individual exploits, or long-buried items of interest from the earliest years of the NFL will be dusted off and resurrected for the listener.

Not for the football faint-of-heart since these programs will document when the struggling Bears nearly went out of business or when Cardinals’ players earned $15 a game and were proud of it! It’s NFL history—with a twist!. See Joe's books below.

Cadets, Canons, and Legends: The Football History of Morgan Park Military Academy

When Football Was Football: The Chicago Cardinals and the Birth of the NFL

Music for the episode - https://www.purple-planet.com/

In 1963, Syracuse great and Cleveland Browns running back Ernie Davis died after a 10-month fight against Leukemia.

In 2023, Cleveland Browns running back Jim Brown died.

In 2004, Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson threw a perfect game against Atlanta.

In 1912, Detroit Tigers pitcher Alan Travers gave up 26 hits and 24 runs to Philadelphia.

In 1996, the US Women's National Team beat China 1-0 in the US Women's Cup.

This episode delves into the illustrious legacy of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, underscoring three remarkable narratives that exemplify the enduring spirit and historical significance of this esteemed college football program. We commence with the story of John Philip "Clipper" Smith, a diminutive yet formidable player who, under the guidance of the legendary Knute Rockne, became a pivotal force during the 1925-1927 seasons, eventually earning a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. Next, we explore the inspiring journey of John Carney, a walk-on who transcended expectations to become Notre Dame's all-time leader in field goals before embarking on a storied 23-year career in the NFL, marked by a Super Bowl championship and remarkable scoring achievements. Finally, we reflect on Knute Rockne's early professional endeavors, revealing his significant contributions to the evolution of the game and the genesis of the modern NFL. Through these narratives, we illuminate the profound impact of these individuals on both Notre Dame and the broader landscape of American football.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Do you want more football history? Test your Gridiron Knowledge, we feed you Daily with our new FREE activity, The Pigskin Trivia Drive.

Grab a copy of our latest book, "Marooned," on the 1925 Pottsville Maroons NFL franchise saga.

*OR* Grab a copy of our book on Western Pennsylvania football history, "World's Greatest Gridiron Team" on the 1903 Franklin All-Stars

Drop us a line at PigskinDispatch@gmail .com and check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel.

Contact us directly at [email protected]

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well, don't because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

The discussion initiates with an exploration of the significant legacy and prominence associated with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, a revered college football team. The podcast delves into three distinct stories that exemplify the richness of Notre Dame's football history, each centered around legendary figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the team's identity. We commence with John Philip 'Clipper' Smith, a diminutive yet tenacious player who, despite his size, made an indelible impact on the field during the 1925 season under the coaching guidance of Knute Rockne. Smith's remarkable agility and technical skill earned him the respect of his peers and a place in the College Football Hall of Fame, demonstrating that greatness can manifest in various forms, irrespective of physical stature. Transitioning through time, we uncover the narrative of John Carney, a walk-on kicker who ascended to prominence during the 1980s. Carney's journey from an unheralded athlete to Notre Dame's all-time leading scorer encapsulates the essence of perseverance and determination. His collegiate career culminated in a dramatic game-winning field goal against USC, a moment that not only solidified his status as a key player but also served as a catalyst for his successful transition into a 23-year NFL career. Carney's legacy extends beyond mere statistics; he symbolizes the potential for triumph against adversity, resonating with aspiring athletes and fans alike. Finally, we reflect on the early days of Knute Rockne, a figure whose influence transcended college football, as he navigated the tumultuous landscape of professional football in the 1910s. Before Rockne became a legendary coach at Notre Dame, he participated in the Ohio League, where he honed his skills as a player and coach. This period not only contributed to his development but also laid the groundwork for the evolution of modern football strategies, particularly the forward pass. Rockne's dual role as a college coach and advisor to professional teams illustrates the blurred lines between amateur and professional football during that era. Through these narratives, we gain insight into the multifaceted nature of Notre Dame's football legacy, celebrating both its storied past and the enduring spirit of its players.

NDN All-Stars is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

This week in NDN All-Stars history features major moments across boxing, basketball, soccer, distance running, baseball, hockey, and motorsports.

Jack Dempsey and Henry Armstrong add more wins to their historic boxing careers, while Shoni Schimmel records an early WNBA double-double for the Atlanta Dream.

Chris Wondolowski becomes Major League Soccer’s all-time leading scorer, Tom Longboat continues his rise as a legendary distance runner, and Doctor Jacob Weasel reaches the summit of Mount Everest.

We also highlight milestones from Jim Thorpe, Willie Stargell, Early Wynn, Marvin Camel, Dexter Stacey, and Joe Lewis.

From championship boxing matches to historic firsts and unforgettable performances, these moments show the continued impact Native athletes have made across sports history.

• Jack Dempsey defeats Dan Ketchell twice in one week

• Shoni Schimmel records an early WNBA double-double

• Doctor Jacob Weasel reaches the summit of Mount Everest

• Chris Wondolowski becomes MLS’s all-time leading scorer

• Tom Longboat dominates the Victoria Day race

• Jim Thorpe joins the Boston Braves

• Willie Stargell hits three home runs

• Dexter Stacey earns his first NASCAR podium finish

• Joe Louis defeats Buddy Baer in a bizarre disqualification finish

If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at the NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to research and retell these stories.

If you would like to support the project directly, please consider becoming a supporter on Patreon.

Hey there—I'm Bill Black, and welcome to the NDN All-Stars Podcast. If this is your first time hearing about us, let me tell you what we’re all about.

This podcast is where Native sports history comes alive. Each episode shines a spotlight on the great Native American athletes you should know—past and present.

From Hall of Famers to hometown heroes, we tell the stories of Native athletes who made their mark—on the field, on the court, and in history.

We keep it real. No sugar-coating. No museum talk. Just straight-up stories told with pride and purpose—because representation matters, and these All-Stars deserve to be remembered right.

Some episodes are deep dives into a single athlete’s life. Others bring on guests—historians, authors, and sometimes the athletes themselves.

Whether you’re Native, a sports fan, a history buff, or just curious—this podcast will give you a new perspective on what greatness really looks like.

You can find more stories, merch, and updates at NDNAllStars.com

NDN All-Stars – Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!