1957 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1957 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 02 Jan Gene Fullmer wins middleweight boxing title: On January 2, 1957, Gene Fullmer defeated the reigning champion, Carmen Basilio, to win the middleweight boxing title. This victory marked a significant achievement in Fullmer's boxing career, establishing him as one of the top fighters of his time. Fullmer's style and resilience made him a notable figure in the sport during the 1950s. source: britannica.com
- 03 Jan Bojan Križaj born in Kranj, SFR Yugoslavia: Bojan Križaj, a Slovenian former alpine skier, was born in Kranj, SFR Yugoslavia. He competed in three Winter Olympics and achieved notable success in the World Cup circuit. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Jan Jackie Robinson retires from baseball: On January 5, 1957, Jackie Robinson announced his retirement from Major League Baseball at age 37. After a decade with the Brooklyn Dodgers, he had been traded to the New York Giants in December 1956 but chose to retire instead, citing health concerns and a desire to pursue business opportunities. Robinson later joined Chock Full o'Nuts as Vice President of Personnel. source: baseballhall.org
- 11 Jan Bryan Robson born: Bryan Robson, an English footballer and manager, was born on January 11, 1957, in Chester-le-Street, England. He is known for his time with West Bromwich Albion and Manchester United, as well as his role as the England national team captain. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Jan NFL Pro Bowl West Triumphs: On January 13, 1957, the NFL's seventh annual Pro Bowl was held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Western Conference team defeated the Eastern Conference 19-10. The game was attended by 44,177 fans and was not televised. Bert Rechichar of the Baltimore Colts was named the outstanding back, and Ernie Stautner of the Pittsburgh Steelers was named the outstanding lineman. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 15 Jan Brooklyn Dodgers lease Ebbets Field: On January 15, 1957, the Brooklyn Dodgers signed a lease agreement to continue playing at Ebbets Field, their home stadium in Brooklyn, New York. This decision was part of the team's efforts to maintain its presence in Brooklyn before their eventual move to Los Angeles in 1958. source: nytimes.com
- 24 Jan Death of South African cricketer Dan Taylor: Dan Taylor, a South African cricketer who played in two Test matches in 1914, passed away in Durban, Natal, South Africa. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 26 Jan Ashok Malhotra: Indian Test Cricketer: Ashok Malhotra was an Indian batsman who represented the national cricket team in 7 Test matches between 1982 and 1984.
- 10 Feb Fay Crocker wins LPGA golf tournament: Fay Crocker won the LPGA golf tournament held on February 10, 1957. This victory marked a significant achievement in her professional golf career, contributing to her reputation as a skilled player in the sport. source: britannica.com
- 11 Feb NHL Players Association formed: The NHL Players Association (NHLPA) was formed on February 11, 1957, to represent the interests of professional hockey players in the National Hockey League. This organization has played a vital role in labor negotiations and player rights. source: britannica.com
- 13 Feb Thelston Payne: West Indies cricket player: Thelston Payne, a prominent West Indies cricketer, was born on February 13, 1957. He made significant contributions to the sport during his career, representing the West Indies in international matches. source: espncricinfo.com
- 28 Feb Jockey Johnny Longden achieves 5,000th career victory: On February 28, 1957, jockey Johnny Longden secured his 5,000th career victory, marking a significant milestone in his racing career. source: brainyhistory.com
- 03 Mar LPGA Jacksonville Golf Open: Mickey Wright wins the LPGA Jacksonville Golf Open, further establishing her reputation as one of the most accomplished female golfers of her era.
- 12 Mar Harry Dean, English cricket player, dies: Harry Dean, a notable English cricketer, passed away on March 12, 1957. He was known for his contributions to the sport during his playing career. source: britannica.com
- 16 Mar Toronto Maple Leafs set NHL record: On March 16, 1957, the Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the New York Rangers 14-1 at Maple Leaf Gardens, setting a team record for the most goals scored in a single game. Sid Smith and Brian Cullen each scored three goals, contributing to the largest margin of victory in franchise history. source: nhl.com
- 25 Mar NBA Modifies Free-Throw Rule: The National Basketball Association (NBA) implemented changes to its free-throw rule, potentially altering gameplay strategies and player performance dynamics.
- 27 Mar Duncan Goodhew Olympic achievement: British swimmer Duncan Goodhew achieved fame at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 100m breaststroke. His achievements are celebrated in sports history. source: britannica.com
- 28 Mar First American National Curling Championship: The inaugural American National Curling Championship was held, marking a significant milestone in the development of competitive curling in the United States. This event represented an important step in organizing and standardizing the sport at a national level.
- 01 Apr Birth of cricketer David Gower: David Gower, an English cricketer renowned for his elegant batting style, was born on April 1, 1957, in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 04 Apr Birth of Paul Downton, English Cricket Player: Paul Rupert Downton, a former English cricketer and cricket administrator, was born on April 4, 1957, in Farnborough, Kent. He played in 30 Test matches and 28 One Day Internationals for the England cricket team between 1977 and 1989. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Apr Frank Chester, one-armed cricket umpire, passes away: Frank Chester, an English cricketer and umpire who lost his arm during World War I, died on April 8, 1957, in Bushey, Hertfordshire, England. He was renowned for his 31-year tenure as a Test cricket umpire, officiating in 48 Test matches from 1924 to 1955. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 09 Apr Birth of golfer Severiano Ballesteros: Severiano Ballesteros, a Spanish professional golfer who won five major championships, was born on April 9, 1957. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 11 Apr Everton Mattis Cricket Profile: Everton Mattis, a notable West Indies cricket player who was prominent in the early 1980s, representing the Caribbean's rich cricket heritage.
- 16 Apr Montreal Canadiens win Stanley Cup: On April 16, 1957, the Montreal Canadiens secured the Stanley Cup by defeating the Boston Bruins in the NHL finals. This victory marked the Canadiens' 16th championship win in the team's history.
- 20 Apr Birth of English cricketer Graeme Fowler: Graeme Fowler, an English former professional cricketer and cricket coach, was born on April 20, 1957, in Accrington, Lancashire, England. He played for Lancashire County Cricket Club and later for Durham, appearing in 21 Test matches and 26 One Day Internationals for England. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 Apr MLB National League fully integrates with John Irvin Kennedy's debut: On April 22, 1957, John Irvin Kennedy became the first African American player for the Philadelphia Phillies, fully integrating the National League. He entered the game as a pinch-runner in the eighth inning against the Brooklyn Dodgers. source: history.com
- 24 Apr Chicago Cubs set National League pitching record: On April 24, 1957, the Chicago Cubs set a National League record by walking nine batters in a single inning during a 9-5 loss to the Cincinnati Redlegs. Moe Drabowsky walked four batters, Jackie Collum issued three, and Jim Brosnan added two in the fifth inning. source: sabr.org
- 28 Apr Patty Berg wins Women's Western Open: Patty Berg secured victory at the Women's Western Open, held from April 25–28, 1957, at Montgomery Country Club. She finished with a score of 291, one stroke ahead of runner-up Wiffi Smith. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 01 May Flevo Boys Soccer Team Formation: The Flevo Boys soccer team was established in Emmeloord, Netherlands, adding to the local sporting landscape and potentially contributing to the community's recreational and athletic development.
- 04 May 83rd Kentucky Derby Won by Iron Liege: On May 4, 1957, Iron Liege, ridden by Bill Hartack, won the 83rd Kentucky Derby by a nose over Gallant Man. The race was notable for a misjudgment by jockey Bill Shoemaker, who stood up prematurely, allowing Iron Liege to win. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 May Tragic baseball injury: Herb Score hit by line drive: On May 7, 1957, baseball player Herb Score suffered a severe injury when he was hit in the face by a line drive during a game. This incident had a lasting impact on his career and raised concerns about player safety in the sport. source: britannica.com
- 12 May A.J. Foyt's first professional racing victory: A.J. Foyt achieved his first professional racing victory at the 1957 Wilkes-County 160 in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. This win marked the beginning of a legendary career in auto racing, where Foyt would go on to become one of the most successful drivers in history. source: indycar.com
- 14 May Leon White, professional wrestler, born: Leon White, known as the professional wrestler Vader, was born on May 14, 1957. He gained fame in various wrestling promotions and was known for his size and athleticism in the ring. source: britannica.com
- 21 May Edwin Saint Hill, West Indies Cricket Player, Dies: Edwin Saint Hill, a notable West Indies cricket player who represented the national team in two Test matches during the 1930-31 season, passed away on this date.
- 30 May Rohan Kanhai's Test Cricket Debut: Rohan Kanhai made his Test cricket debut for the West Indies against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on May 30, 1957. source: wisden.com
- 02 Jun Fay Crocker wins LPGA tournament: Fay Crocker won the LPGA tournament on June 2, 1957, marking a significant achievement in her golfing career. This victory contributed to her reputation as a prominent figure in women's golf during that era. source: nytimes.com
- 04 Jun Cricket Match: May and Cowdrey Partnership: In the first Test match between England and the West Indies at Edgbaston, Birmingham, Peter May and Colin Cowdrey formed a record-breaking partnership of 411 runs for the fourth wicket. May scored 285* and Cowdrey 154, helping England save the match. source: i.imgci.com
- 10 Jun Louise Suggs wins 1957 LPGA Championship: On June 10, 1957, Louise Suggs secured her only LPGA Championship title at Churchill Valley Country Club in Blackridge, Pennsylvania, with a final score of 285 (+5). She finished three strokes ahead of runner-up Wiffi Smith. The tournament was originally scheduled for June 6–9 but was extended to June 10 due to rain delays. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Jun Boston Celtics win first NBA Championship: The Boston Celtics secured their first NBA Championship on June 13, 1957, marking a significant milestone in the team's history. source: nba.com
- 15 Jun Belmont Stakes Horse Racing: The Belmont Stakes, a prestigious horse racing event, took place on June 15, 1957. This race is part of the Triple Crown series and is held annually at Belmont Park in New York. source: nytimes.com
- 19 Jul American breaks four-minute mile barrier: On July 19, 1957, American runner Jim Ryun became the first high school athlete to break the four-minute mile barrier, achieving a time of 3:59.4. This historic feat marked a significant milestone in athletics and inspired future generations of runners. source: espn.com
- 21 Jul Hot Springs 4-Ball golf tournament: The Hot Springs 4-Ball golf tournament took place on July 21, 1957, featuring a competitive field of amateur golfers. This event was part of the local sports calendar and contributed to the popularity of golf in the region. source: golfdigest.com
- 25 Jul Cricket Hat-Trick at Headingley: Peter Loader achieved a remarkable cricket hat-trick for England against the West Indies at Headingley, a notable sporting achievement.
- 26 Jul Mickey Mantle's 200th Home Run: On July 26, 1957, New York Yankees' Mickey Mantle hit his 200th career home run against the Detroit Tigers at Yankee Stadium. source: themick.com
- 29 Jul Floyd Patterson wins heavyweight boxing title: On July 29, 1957, Floyd Patterson successfully defended his heavyweight title by defeating Tommy "Hurricane" Jackson in the 10th round at the Polo Grounds in New York City. source: britannica.com
- 11 Aug Patty Berg wins LPGA All-American Golf Open: On August 11, 1957, Patty Berg secured victory at the LPGA All-American Open, held at the Tam O'Shanter Country Club in Niles, Illinois. This win marked her fourth All-American Open title. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 18 Aug Juan Manuel Fangio wins final world championship: On August 18, 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio secured his fifth and final Formula One World Championship. This victory solidified his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport. source: bbc.com
- 19 Aug New York Giants franchise relocation decision: On August 19, 1957, the New York Giants made a significant decision regarding their franchise relocation. This decision was pivotal in the history of the NFL and impacted the team's future. source: nfl.com
- 20 Aug Dale Long becomes first left-handed catcher in 56 years: On August 20, 1957, Dale Long of the Chicago Cubs became Major League Baseball's first left-handed-throwing catcher in 56 years. He moved from first base to catcher in the ninth inning of a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, using his first baseman's mitt to handle the pitches. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 Aug Floyd Patterson defeats Pete Rademacher in heavyweight title fight: On August 22, 1957, at Sicks' Stadium in Seattle, Floyd Patterson successfully defended his heavyweight title against Pete Rademacher, the 1956 Olympic gold medalist. Rademacher, making his professional debut, knocked Patterson down in the second round, but Patterson recovered and won by knockout in the sixth round. source: historylink.org
- 27 Aug Hickory Smoke Wins Hambletonian Stakes: Hickory Smoke, a notable harness racing horse, emerged victorious in the prestigious Hambletonian Stakes, a major event in standardbred horse racing.
- 03 Sep Soviet Mountaineering Achievement: Yevgeniy Abalakov becomes the first person to reach the summit of Communism Peak (now Ismoil Somoni Peak) in Tajikistan, a significant mountaineering accomplishment.
- 08 Sep Walt Easley Born: Walt Easley, a professional American football fullback, was born in Charleston, West Virginia.
- 23 Sep Hank Aaron's pennant-winning home run: On September 23, 1957, Hank Aaron hit a crucial home run that secured the National League pennant for the Milwaukee Braves. This moment was significant in Aaron's career and contributed to his legacy as one of baseball's greatest players. The Braves went on to compete in the World Series that year. source: nytimes.com
- 24 Sep Brooklyn Dodgers' final game at Ebbets Field: On September 24, 1957, the Brooklyn Dodgers played their last game at Ebbets Field, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-0 in front of 6,702 fans. This marked the end of the Dodgers' 68-year tenure in Brooklyn before their move to Los Angeles. source: baseballhall.org
- 27 Sep San Francisco Giants secure temporary home at Seals Stadium: On September 27, 1957, the San Francisco Giants announced they would play their home games at Seals Stadium for the 1958 season. This decision came after the team's relocation from New York to San Francisco, marking a significant moment in baseball history. source: britannica.com
- 02 Oct New York Yankees in World Series: The New York Yankees appear in their 26th World Series, continuing their legendary status in Major League Baseball.
- 05 Oct Jeanne Evert, tennis player, born: Jeanne Evert, an American tennis player and sister of tennis star Chris Evert, was born on October 5, 1957. She had a successful career in the sport, achieving notable rankings and participating in various tournaments throughout the 1970s and 1980s. source: washingtonpost.com
- 06 Oct Milwaukee Braves defeat Yankees in World Series Game 4: On October 6, 1957, the Milwaukee Braves defeated the New York Yankees in Game 4 of the World Series. This victory was part of a historic series that ultimately led the Braves to win their first championship in Milwaukee. source: nytimes.com
- 07 Oct Louise Suggs wins golf tournament: Louise Suggs won a significant golf tournament on October 7, 1957, further establishing her legacy in women's golf. Suggs was a key figure in the development of the LPGA and was known for her competitive spirit and skill. source: britannica.com
- 08 Oct Brooklyn Dodgers Announce Move to Los Angeles: The Brooklyn Dodgers baseball franchise officially announced its relocation to Los Angeles, a landmark decision that would significantly reshape professional sports in the United States.
- 10 Oct Milwaukee Braves Win World Series: The Milwaukee Braves defeated the New York Yankees 4 games to 3 in the 54th World Series, securing their first and only championship while representing Milwaukee. President Eisenhower later praised this series as one of the finest in recent history.
- 14 Oct Racing Driver Ronald Searles Killed: British racing driver Ronald Searles tragically lost his life in a fatal crash at the Monza Circuit in Italy, highlighting the inherent dangers of motorsports during this era.
- 17 Oct Steve McMichael's birth: Steve McMichael, an American professional football player and professional wrestler, was born on October 17, 1957, in Houston, Texas. He played 15 seasons in the NFL, primarily for the Chicago Bears, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 18 Oct Karachi A defeats Sind A in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy: In a Quaid-e-Azam Trophy match held on October 18, 1957, Karachi A defeated Sind A by an innings and 77 runs. Karachi A's Hanif Mohammad and Alimuddin both scored centuries, contributing significantly to their team's victory. source: pcb.com.pk
- 19 Oct Maurice Richard scores 500th NHL goal: On October 19, 1957, Maurice "Rocket" Richard of the Montreal Canadiens became the first player in NHL history to score 500 career goals. He achieved this milestone during a 3–1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks at the Montreal Forum, with his 500th goal coming in the first period. source: nhl.com
- 21 Oct LPGA Golf Tournament: The 1957 LPGA Tour concluded on October 21, 1957, with the Lawton Open in Oklahoma, marking the end of the season. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 Nov Wrestling Championship Change: Dick Hutton defeats Lou Thesz in Toronto, capturing the NWA wrestling championship in a notable professional wrestling match.
- 30 Nov Hamilton Tiger-Cats win 45th CFL Grey Cup: On November 30, 1957, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeated the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 32–7 in the 45th Grey Cup at Varsity Stadium in Toronto. This was the first Grey Cup game to be covered on coast-to-coast television. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 02 Dec 1958 NFL Draft First Rounds Held: The first four rounds of the 1958 NFL draft are held in Philadelphia, with the Chicago Cardinals selecting quarterback King Hill of Rice University as the first overall draft pick.
- 05 Dec Art Monk: NFL wide receiver: Art Monk, a prominent NFL wide receiver, was born on December 5, 1957. He went on to have a successful career, becoming a key player for the Washington Redskins and later being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. source: profootballhof.com
- 11 Dec 1958 NFL Draft first rounds: The first rounds of the 1958 NFL Draft took place on December 11, 1957. This draft was notable for the selection of several future Hall of Famers, including Jim Brown and Johnny Unitas. The event marked a significant moment in professional football, shaping the future of the league. source: profootballhof.com
- 19 Dec 1958 NFL Draft first rounds: The first rounds of the 1958 NFL Draft took place on December 19, 1957. This draft is notable for the selection of several future Hall of Famers, including Jim Brown and Johnny Unitas. source: pro-football-reference.com
- 30 Dec New York Giants NFL Championship victory: On December 30, 1957, the New York Giants won the NFL Championship, defeating the Chicago Bears. This victory marked a significant achievement for the Giants, solidifying their status in the league during that era. source: pro-football-reference.com
- 31 Dec Bobby Morrow receives James Sullivan Memorial Trophy: On December 31, 1957, American sprinter Bobby Morrow was awarded the James E. Sullivan Memorial Trophy, recognizing him as the top amateur athlete in the United States. Morrow's achievements in track and field during the year were notable, including his performance at the 1956 Olympics. source: usatf.org
What happened in 1957?
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