What is jim ellis swim coach?

Jim Ellis is an American former competitive swimmer and swim coach. He is best known for coaching the Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation’s competitive swim team, the PDR Swim Team, in the 1970s and 1980s. Ellis was the subject of the 2007 film "Pride," which told the story of his work with the swim team and his efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the sport of swimming.

Ellis began coaching the PDR Swim Team in 1971, and over the next two decades, he helped lead the team to numerous championships and developed several elite swimmers, including African American Olympic swimmers such as Sabir Muhammad and David Wharton.

Ellis's coaching style was known for its focus on discipline, hard work, and mental toughness, as well as his dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all swimmers. His work with the PDR Swim Team played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in competitive swimming and increasing diversity within the sport.

In addition to his coaching career, Ellis has also worked as an advocate for diversity in swimming and has been involved in various initiatives to promote inclusivity and equality in the sport. He was inducted into the Black Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.