About Beth Phoenix

Ties To Buffalo

Beth Kociański, better known as Beth Phoenix, was born on November 24th, 1980 in Elmira, NY. She attended Elmira Notre Dame High School and was the first female wrestler in the school’s history. She moved to Buffalo to attend Canisius College and earned her degree in criminal justice and public relations. As she attended college, she continued to train as a wrestler at a gym in Medina, NY.

Making Her Way to the Top

In 1999, Phoenix became the North-East freestyle women’s champion and also won at the New York State Fair Tournament the same year. As she was attending Canisius College, she was trained by the All Knighters, Joey Knight and Robin Knightwing. Her professional wrestling debut match was against Alexis Laree. She then worked for various independent promotions, including Cleveland All Pro Wrestling and Apocalypse Wrestling. In 2002, she was one of the first wrestlers in GLORY, an independent organization for women. She then joined Far North Wrestling and was the only female wrestler in the promotion.

Career in WWE

In May 2004, Phoenix was invited to a tryout with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and then relocated to Louisville, Kentucky to work for their then-developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). She signed a developmental contract with WWE on October 20, 2005. Phoenix debuted on WWE’s main roster on May 8, 2006. Phoenix suffered a jaw injury and returned to action back in the OVW on August 16, 2006.

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About Joe Licata

Growing Up in Buffalo

Joseph Licata was born on November 16th, 1992 in Buffalo, NY. He went to Williamsville South High School where he played football and basketball. He set the New York State Public High School Athletic Association record for career three-point field goals with 343 as a basketball player. He was also Buffalo News Player of the Year in 2010.

Playing at UB

After high school, Licata played for the University of Buffalo Bulls. In 2013, Licata and the Bulls had one of the best seasons the team has ever seen leading them to the 2013 Idaho Potato Bowl. When Licata’s college career ended in 2015, he became Buffalo’s career leader in both passing yards (9,485) and passing touchdowns (76).

Shooting for the NFL

After Licata was not drafted in the 2016 NFL draft, on May 16th, 2016, he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Cincinnati Bengals. He played a couple of times in preseason games, but was released on August 29th.

Football Coaching Career

On July 14th, 2017, Licata became as head coach and athletic director at Bishop Timon – St. Jude High School. On May 28th, 2021, Licata accepted a position to return to UB as an offensive analyst. On March 9th, 2022, Licata returned to Williamsville South High School as their football head coach.

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About Dennis Gilbert

Growing Up in Buffalo

Dennis Gilbert was born on October 30th, 1996 in Buffalo, NY. Gilbert attended St. Joe’s where he played hockey for his father and the Junior Buffalo Sabres program. He also played for Chicago Steel in the United States Hockey League. In addition to hockey, he also played lacrosse, football, baseball, and soccer.

Gilbert’s Time at Notre Dame

Gilbert played hockey for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and helped guide them to the Frozen Four his sophomore year. In his junior year, he signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks on April 14, 2018.

Gilbert’s Start in the NHL

At the end of his entry-level deal, Gilbert was traded to the Colorado Avalanche. He then left the Avalanche as a free agent and signed a two-year $1.525 million dollar contract with the Calgary Flames on July 13, 2022. After his contract with the Flames was over, Gilbert opted to leave as a free agent and signed a one-year, $825,000 contract with his hometown team, the Buffalo Sabres, on July 1, 2024. On March 7, 2025, Gilbert was traded to the Ottawa Senators along with Dylan Cozens.

Gilbert’s Thoughts on Buffalo

Gilbert has a deep pride for Buffalo, NY. He was thrilled to play for the Buffalo Sabres and talked about how much he missed being home. Gilbert sees Buffalo as a great hockey town with a passionate fanbase.

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About Nick Foligno

Growing Up in Buffalo

Nick Foligno was born on October 31, 1987 in Buffalo, NY. Foligno’s father, Mike Foligno, was the captain for the Buffalo Sabres in the 1980’s which created a strong tie to Buffalo for not only Nick Foligno and his father, but his brother Marcus Foligno.

Growing up Nick would go to the Aud with his dad where he would spent time in the locker room which helped to introduce him to the NHL life. He also learned a lot by watching his dad play. Mike Foligno was traded to the Toronto Maples Leafs which led the Foligno family to move to Ontario.

Working His Way to the Big Leagues

Nick began his 2003-04 season playing with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program’s under 17 team where he scored 7 goals and 16 points where he then played for the under 18 team where in 43 games he scored 8 goals and 20 points.

He then signed with the Sudbury Wolves in the Ontario Hockey League where he was coached by his father, Mike Foligno. In his rookie season, he scored 10 goals and 38 points in 65 games.

Getting Drafted to the Ottawa Senators

Foligno was drafted to the Ottowa Senators in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft as the 28th overall pick. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract. He played his first game with the Senators on October 3, 2007 and scored his first career NHL goal and point on October 18, 2007. He appeared in his first Stanley Cup playoff on April 9, 2008. Foligno continued to play for the Senators and was doing well until he suffered an injury and missed 21 games during the 2009-10 season. In the 2011-12 season, he made an amazing comeback with 15 goals and 47 points.

On July 1, 2012, Foligno was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Foligno had an amazing game against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals where R.J. Umberger blocked a puck with his head and Foligno took the puck, skated down the ice, and shot a knuckle-puck past Marc-André Fleury to win the game. Also, he was asked to go and represent the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2015 NHL All-Star Game.

On April 11, 2021, Foligno then signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Unfortunately, Foligno suffered another injury and missed many games.

After his season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Foligno signed as a free agent for 2 years with the Boston Bruins. He played his 1,000 NHL game with the Bruins. He didn’t have a great first season with the Bruins, but did a little better his second season as he beat the single-season NHL record for both wins and total points.

On June 26, 2023, Foligno was a free agent and was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks. He signed a one-year $4 million contract for the 2023-24 season. In 2024, he signed a two-year, $9 million extension with the Blackhawks on January 12. On September 18, 2024, Foligno was named the 36th captain for the Blackhawks.

Where is Nick Foligno now?

During Foligno’s off season, he lives with his wife and 3 children in Sudbury, Ontario. After losing his mother to breast cancer, he became an avid supporter of cancer patient care and research at Roger’s House, the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Foundation, and many more organizations.

Always Tied Back to Buffalo

Buffalo has had a huge impact on the Foligno family. Even though they have gone far, they always come back and try to do what they can to help the Buffalo community. A couple years ago Nick Foligno was playing against the Sabres and a fan had a sign that said, “Hey Nick, Your dad gave my dad his stick in 1987, can we have yours?” Nick saw the sign and gave them his stick just as his dad did.

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About Bob Lanier

Bob Lanier (September 10, 1948 – May 10, 2022) was an iconic NBA center renowned for his smooth left-handed hook shot, versatility, and graceful dominance on the floor. Standing nearly 7‑feet tall and wearing famously large sneakers, Lanier carved out a legendary career with the Detroit Pistons and Milwaukee Bucks.

Road to Success

Bob Lanier gained success as a player through a combination of natural talent, relentless work ethic, and resilience in the face of adversity. Standing nearly 7 feet tall with exceptional footwork, soft hands, and a powerful left-handed hook shot, he quickly stood out as a dominant force on the basketball court. His journey began at Bennett High School in Buffalo, New York, but he truly rose to prominence at St. Bonaventure University, where he became a national star. There, he averaged over 27 points and 15 rebounds per game and led the Bonnies to the 1970 Final Four, solidifying his reputation as one of the best collegiate players in the country—even while dealing with a serious knee injury.

His success carried over into the NBA after being selected as the #1 overall pick in the 1970 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. Lanier made an immediate impact with his scoring, rebounding, and leadership, earning NBA All-Rookie First Team honors and eventually becoming an eight-time All-Star. Despite chronic knee problems throughout his 14-year career, he consistently averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game, showing incredible toughness and consistency. His ability to adapt and contribute meaningfully, even while battling injuries, played a major role in his long-term success.

Lanier also gained respect for his professionalism, leadership, and off-court demeanor, which later helped him transition into roles like NBA Global Ambassador and youth advocate. His success wasn’t just about stats—it was also about his character, dedication, and the respect he earned from teammates, opponents, and the wider basketball community.

Awards

Bob Lanier earned numerous awards and honors throughout his basketball career that highlight both his on-court excellence and off-court contributions. As an eight-time NBA All-Star and the 1974 NBA All-Star Game MVP, he was consistently recognized as one of the league’s top players. Early in his career, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 1971, signaling his immediate impact in the league. Lanier’s remarkable achievements were further cemented with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992. His legacy is honored by the retirement of his jersey number 16 by both the Detroit Pistons and the Milwaukee Bucks, as well as his college number 31 by St. Bonaventure University. Beyond basketball, Lanier was celebrated for his community service, receiving the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award in 1978 and the Jackie Robinson Award for leadership and youth advocacy. After retiring, he served as an NBA Global Ambassador for over 30 years, promoting the sport and education worldwide, demonstrating his lasting impact both as a player and as a dedicated humanitarian.

Charities and Donations

ob Lanier was deeply involved in charitable work throughout his life. Beyond his legendary basketball career, he dedicated significant time and effort to giving back to communities, especially youth. He founded the Bob Lanier Center in his hometown of Buffalo, New York, which focuses on providing support, mentorship, and development opportunities for young people. Lanier was also actively involved in the NBA’s community initiatives, including literacy programs like “Stay in School” and “Read to Achieve,” which aimed to encourage education and personal growth among children. His humanitarian efforts earned him the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award for outstanding community service. Lanier’s commitment to charity and youth development was a vital part of his legacy, showing how he used his platform to make a positive impact off the court.

Legacy

Bob Lanier’s legacy is one of remarkable talent, resilience, and profound impact both on and off the basketball court. As a dominant NBA center, he was celebrated for his graceful skill, powerful scoring, and leadership, earning eight All-Star selections and a lasting place in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, Lanier’s perseverance and consistency made him one of the most respected players of his era. Beyond his athletic achievements, his legacy shines through his unwavering commitment to community service and youth development. Through founding the Bob Lanier Center and championing educational initiatives, he used his platform to uplift and inspire countless young people, particularly in his hometown of Buffalo. His role as an NBA Global Ambassador for over three decades further extended his influence worldwide, promoting basketball and positive values internationally. Lanier is remembered not just as a legendary player, but as a true gentleman, leader, and humanitarian whose impact transcended the game.

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About Jordan Nwora

Jordan Nwora is a professional basketball player known for his scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility on the court. Born on March 30, 1998, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Nwora played college basketball at the University of Louisville, where he emerged as one of the top scorers in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). His impressive performance at Louisville, including strong shooting and rebounding skills, helped him gain attention from NBA scouts.

In 2020, Jordan Nwora was selected in the second round of the NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, marking the start of his professional career. He has since showcased his talent as a forward, contributing as both a scorer and a role player with the Bucks. Beyond his NBA career, Nwora also represents the Nigerian national basketball team, embracing his Nigerian heritage and competing internationally, which highlights his dual identity and global impact in the sport.

Nwora is recognized for his work ethic, smooth shooting stroke, and ability to create scoring opportunities, making him a promising young player in professional basketball.

Road to Success

Jordan Nwora’s journey to success is a story of steady growth, hard work, and strong basketball roots. Born in Buffalo, New York, to Nigerian parents, he was raised in a basketball-savvy environment—his father, Alex Nwora, is a respected coach and head of Nigeria’s national team. Jordan began to shine in high school, gaining attention for his scoring ability and smooth shooting stroke. He took a major leap during his college career at the University of Louisville, where he transformed from a role player into one of the ACC’s top scorers. Known for his three-point shooting and offensive versatility, he earned All-ACC honors and boosted his NBA stock. In 2020, he was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks and went on to win an NBA championship in his rookie season. His international experience with Nigeria also helped elevate his game, allowing him to compete on a global stage. Through discipline, confidence, and consistent improvement, Nwora has carved out a place in professional basketball and continues to grow as a key contributor.

Awards

Jordan Nwora has received several notable awards throughout his basketball career, recognizing both his individual talent and team success. During his time at the University of Louisville, he was named the ACC Most Improved Player in 2019, reflecting his significant growth as a player. That same year, he earned Third-Team All-ACC honors, followed by a First-Team All-ACC selection in 2020. His standout junior season also earned him Third-Team All-American recognition from the Associated Press, USBWA, Sporting News, and NABC. Nwora was also a finalist for the Julius Erving Award, which honors the top small forward in college basketball, and he appeared on the John R. Wooden Award Midseason Top 25 Watch List, recognizing national Player of the Year contenders. After being drafted into the NBA, he won an NBA Championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021 during his rookie season, adding a major professional milestone to his growing list of accolades.

Charities and Donations

Jordan Nwora Foundation (JNF) – Youth Camps & Outreach

1. International Elite Basketball Camps (West Africa – ongoing)
The foundation runs Elite Basketball Camps across West Africa, partnering with FIBA Africa and national basketball federations in countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Ghana, and Benin Republic. These camps welcome youth aged 14–18 and provide coaching from both American and African trainers. They focus not just on basketball fundamentals, but also emphasize life skills, leadership, nutrition, and education. At each camp, standout players may earn spots in All-Star showcases and be recognized as MVPs—one pathway toward securing scholarships both at home and abroad.

2. Infrastructure & Community Development in Ghana (Tamale)
At a camp held in Tamale, Ghana, the foundation joined forces with New York Square, a Beninese NGO. This unprecedented collaboration led to the construction of a basketball court and a borehole (clean water source) for the local community. JNF provided all camp materials and technical support, while New York Square handled infrastructure development.

3. Expansion into Liberia (2025)
In May 2025, JNF brought an Elite Basketball Camp to Monrovia, Liberia. Hosted at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville, this three-day intensive program impacted over 100 young players. It was organized in partnership with FIBA Zone 3 and the Liberia Basketball Association, marking the foundation’s first camp in that country.

4. High-Impact Camps in Lagos, Nigeria
The foundation also concluded a highly successful camp in Lagos, drawing over 300 participating children, including wheelchair basketball players. Through these programs, youth learned not only the sports fundamentals but also broader life and leadership skills. Several participants are being prepared for larger opportunities on international platforms.

5. Jordan Nwora Buffalo Basketball Camp (2022 onward)
Returning to his roots, Nwora organized his first basketball camp in Buffalo, highlighting his deep connection to the community. The week-long event welcomed children aged 7–18 and emphasized sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth. The foundation, alongside city sponsors and the mayor’s office, awarded 150 local youth with scholarships, and all participants received free sneakers courtesy of Samaritan’s Feet.

Legacy

Jordan Nwora’s legacy is defined by a blend of athletic achievement, personal growth, and impactful global outreach. As a basketball player, he rose from a promising college athlete at Louisville to an NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, proving that hard work and development can lead to the highest levels of success. His legacy on the court includes being one of the most improved and reliable scorers in college basketball, an All-American, and a key figure representing Nigeria on the international stage—helping elevate the profile of African basketball.

Off the court, Nwora’s legacy is even more meaningful. Through the Jordan Nwora Foundation, he has used his platform to empower underprivileged youth across Africa and his hometown of Buffalo, New York. His camps, donations, and infrastructure projects—including building courts and providing clean water—have reached thousands of young people. He’s become a role model for how athletes can use their influence to give back and uplift communities. Jordan Nwora’s legacy is not just about the points he scored or the titles he won, but about the lives he’s touched and the hope he continues to inspire globally.

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About Wilson Greatbatch

Wilson Greatbatch was an American engineer and inventor best known for inventing the implantable cardiac pacemaker, a groundbreaking medical device that has saved millions of lives. Born in Buffalo, New York, in 1919, Greatbatch made significant contributions to both the medical and engineering communities, particularly through his work in Western New York.

Medical Contributions

Wilson Greatbatch’s medical innovation was the invention of the implantable cardiac pacemaker, a revolutionary device that helps regulate the heartbeat in patients with irregular or slow heart rhythms (bradycardia). This invention transformed modern cardiology and has saved millions of lives worldwide.

How the Innovation Happened:

In 1958, while working on a device to record heart sounds, Greatbatch accidentally installed the wrong resistor into a circuit. Instead of recording, the circuit emitted intermittent electrical pulses—mimicking the rhythm of a human heartbeat. Realizing its potential, he refined the design into a device that could send timed electrical impulses to stimulate the heart.

• First Implantable Pacemaker:
  Prior to his invention, pacemakers were large, external devices connected to patients by wires—impractical and often unreliable. Greatbatch’s design was small and could be implanted directly into the body, making it much more effective and improving patients’ quality of life.
• Reliable Power Source:
  Greatbatch later helped develop lithium-iodide batteries specifically for pacemakers, dramatically increasing their reliability and lifespan, allowing patients to live active, normal lives for many years without frequent surgeries to replace the battery.
• Collaboration with Surgeons:
  In 1960, the first human implantation of his pacemaker took place. Greatbatch collaborated with surgeons like Dr. William Chardack and Dr. Andrew Gage to test and successfully implant the device in patients.
• Lifesaving Technology:
  The implantable pacemaker became one of the most important medical innovations of the 20th century. Millions of people with heart conditions now live longer, healthier lives because of it.
• Foundation for Modern Devices:
  Greatbatch’s invention laid the groundwork for today’s advanced cardiac devices, including defibrillators and combination pacemakers.

Philanthropy

Wilson Greatbatch was not only an inventor but also a generous philanthropist who believed deeply in giving back to his community and supporting the next generation of innovators. Throughout his life, he donated both time and resources to educational and scientific institutions, particularly in Western New York. He maintained a strong relationship with the University at Buffalo, supporting research initiatives and mentoring students in engineering and medical fields. Greatbatch also invested in programs that promoted science and technology education for young people, aiming to inspire future inventors. Beyond education, he supported local charities and initiatives focused on health, sustainability, and community development. His philanthropy reflected his belief that science should serve humanity—not just through inventions, but through empowering others to create meaningful change.

Wilson Greatbatch Ltd.

In 1970, Wilson Greatbatch founded Wilson Greatbatch Ltd. (WGL) in Clarence, New York, as a way to continue advancing medical technology—particularly by developing long-lasting, reliable power sources for implantable devices like pacemakers. After inventing the implantable cardiac pacemaker, Greatbatch realized that one of the biggest challenges was finding a battery that could safely and effectively power the device inside the human body for many years. His company focused on solving this problem and became a leader in producing lithium-iodide batteries, which significantly extended the lifespan of pacemakers and improved patient outcomes. WGL not only supplied these advanced batteries worldwide but also helped establish Western New York as a hub for biomedical innovation. The company created high-tech jobs, supported local research, and played a critical role in the global medical device industry. Over time, WGL evolved and was eventually acquired, becoming part of Integer Holdings Corporation, but it all began with Greatbatch’s vision to combine innovation with practical solutions to improve human health.

Lasting Impact for the Medical Community

Wilson Greatbatch left a profound and lasting impact on the medical community through his invention of the implantable cardiac pacemaker and his continued dedication to advancing biomedical technology. His work fundamentally changed the way doctors manage heart rhythm disorders, transforming a once-deadly condition into one that could be effectively treated with a small, life-sustaining device. The pacemaker has since saved and improved millions of lives around the world, and its development paved the way for other implantable medical technologies, such as defibrillators and neurostimulators. Greatbatch’s innovations also set new standards for the safety, reliability, and longevity of medical implants, particularly through his contributions to battery technology. Beyond his inventions, he inspired a culture of collaboration between engineers, doctors, and researchers, emphasizing the importance of cross-disciplinary innovation in healthcare. His legacy lives on in every pacemaker implanted today and continues to influence the future of medical technology, education, and patient care.

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About Tom Baker

Tom Baker was born on September 12, 1954 in Buffalo, NY. Tom Baker is a famous bowler who has won multiple titles throughout his time, is a part of the Professional Bowlers Association, and has been inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame.

Discovering Bowling in Buffalo

Tom Baker was surrounded by his family and community that were all active bowlers. His brothers bowled and it was a very popular social activity in his neighborhood which led to his interest in bowling. He started when he was 8 years old at the bowling alley across the street where he lived. He possessed an innate ability for bowling and many referred to him as “a natural”.

Baker’s PBA Career

Baker joined the pro tour in 1976 and won his first PBA title in 1980. The 1981 season was amazing for Baker. He won three titles and over $103,000. After he won the Penzoil Open in California and the Las Vegas Showboat Doubles Classic, he had a record-breaking performance at the PBA Denver Open. He set records for pins in a six game block (1,613), pins in 12 games (3,037), and for 24 games (5,856), and for a 42-game average of 247.45 based on a record 10,848 pins. That season he earned recognition as a member of the 1980-1981 Bowler’s Journal All-American Team.

By 1986, he had won 7 PBA titles before going on a 10-year winless streak. In 1996, he defeated his winless streak and won at the AC-Delco Classic and won again in 1997 in Pennsylvania. Baker experienced another 7-year winless streak until he won the 2004 PBA World Championship at 49 years old. At this time, he was the oldest player to win a PBA major.

Baker’s Outstanding Accomplishments and Awards

Baker is one of only five bowlers to have won at least 10 titles on both the standard PBA Tour and the PBA50 Tour. He was named Senior Rookie of the Year and Senior Player of the Year in 2005, becoming the first player to to earn both awards in a season.

Altogether Baker has had 65 perfect games (300 pins). In 2008, Baker was ranked #40 on the PBA’s list of “50 Greatest Players of the Last 50 Years.”

What Tom Baker is Up To Today

Today Tom Baker lives in King, North Carolina. While he doesn’t professionally bowl anymore, he still has a strong passion for the sport and will bowl from time to time.

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About Miles Wood

Miles Wood was born in Buffalo, NY on September 13, 1995. While Wood was born in Buffalo, he grew up in Manchester, Massachusetts where he established his love for hockey.

When Wood was 11 years old, he wrote a letter to Alexander Ovechkin asking him to autograph the hockey card. In the letter, Wood said that if Ovechkin didn’t sign it that when he made it to the NHL the first thing he would do is check Ovechkin in a game. Overchkin never returned the card, but signed a photo for Wood before Wood’s first game against Ovechkin at the Verizon Center.

Growing up in Massachusetts and Playing Hockey

Growing up Wood was always surrounded by hockey. Wood’s father, Randy Wood was an NHL player for the New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Dallas Stars. Wood’s grandfather, R. Norman Wood, was also the head coach for Princeton University’s hockey team from 1959 to 1965.

In Wood’s youth, he played for the 2007 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with the Middlesex Islanders minor ice hockey team where he also played with past teammates on the Columbus Blue Jackets: Jon Gillies and Matt Grzelcyk.

Wood played hockey at Noble and Greenough School where he was drafted 100th overall in the fourth round of the NHL 2013 draft by the New Jersey Devils. He graduated from the school in 2015.

After graduating from Noble and Greenough School, he attended Boston College for a year before he signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New Jersey Devils on April 8, 2016 as a left winger. He made his NHL debut the next night and won his first game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He scored his first goal on November 29, 2016 against the Winnipeg Jets.

Wood’s Achievements in the NHL

The 2017-18 season was Wood’s career high in scoring points and he played in his first playoff game. Wood helped get the Devils to the playoffs with their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs when he scored the winning goal. Wood ended the regular season with a career-best 32 points. At the end of the season, he signed a four-year contract with the Devils.

Wood played with the Devils for 8 years before becoming a free agent and getting signed by the Colorado Avalanche with a six-year, $15 million contract. He suffered an injury that affected his playtime in the 2024-2025 season which led him to being traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

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About Jimmy Slattery

Born James Patrick Slattery on August 25, 1904 in the First Ward of Buffalo, NY. Today, Jimmy Slattery is known for being a famous boxer. Slattery’s father, John Slattery, was a fireman at firehouse Engine 22. Jimmy Slattery was also often given the nickname “Shamus”.

Accidentally Coming Across Boxing

When Slattery was growing up in Buffalo, a bully named Harp Griffin saw Slattery standing at the corner of Elk and Louisiana Streets with a box of chocolates for his mom for Valentine’s Day. Griffin wanted the chocolates for himself, so he took the chocolates from Slattery. Slattery didn’t back down and fought him for the 30 minutes outside of Gene Murphy’s gas station and won.

Slattery’s father recognized the gift that his son had and held boxing matches in his backyard and took him to the First Ward Athletic Club.

Slattery’s Rise to Fame

Slattery started his career when he was just 16 years old. He started with 35 straight wins against many boxers who were bigger than him. He started getting noticed by more people after he had won against Jack Delaney at Madison Square Garden.

After some time, Slattery was in contention for the National Boxing Association title. On August 30, 1927, Slattery defeated Maxie Rosenbloom and won the World Light Heavyweight Championship.

In 1992, Boxing Illustrated ranked Slattery the seventh slickest boxer of all time. He also was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 1992.

His Fame Led to Some Struggles

As Slattery became more and more popular, he started to chase the life of alcohol and women. Alcohol ultimately led to his downfall. Slattery was also known for being charitable and donated a lot of his money to charities. By 1931, he was broke and his slow descent began.

Many believed that if Slattery had stayed away from alcohol, he could’ve become a legend for a very long time. Slattery tried to make a comeback in 1930 in the fight to keep his title as New York State Worldwide Light Heavyweight. In the fight, he took a punch to the left throat that left him hoarse for the rest of his life.

His struggle with alcohol continued to persist and he continued to try and fight to keep his titles, but lost them. Slattery retired from boxing in 1934 and his struggle with alcohol worsened. In 1942, Slattery was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis which was the same disease that had killed his father and brother.

Remembering Jimmy Slattery

One night in August of 1960, Slattery collapsed at House O’Quinn and was taken to his flat close by. The next morning, he had passed and his body was on the floor of his boarding house on Franklin Street. Slattery was buried in Holy Cross Cemetery with an unmarked grave.

Today, Jimmy Slattery will always be known as Buffalo’s first authentic athletic celebrity.

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