Jimmy Thorpe

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James "Jimmy" Thorpe (born 16 September 1913 at Jarrow, England) played 139 games as a goalkeeper for Sunderland Football Club. He signed when he was 17 after attending Jarrow Central School. He had a promising career, become starter for the club from the 1932/33 season. His life and career were cut short on February 5, 1936 when he was kicked in the head and chest after he had picked up the ball following a backpass in a game against Chelsea at Roker Park. He was carried off in the second half, and died in hospital 4 days later from a diabetic coma 'accelerated by the rough usage of the opposing team'^[1].

This tragic end to Thorpe's career led to a change in the rules, where players were no longer allowed to raise their foot to a goalkeeper when he had control of the ball in his arms.^[2] . Though Thorpe may be little known, even in the North East, goalkeepers around the world doubtlessly owe a debt to him.

Sunderland went on to win the Championship that same year, and his medal was presented to his widow.^[3]