I was suppose to see it a couple of weeks ago and got tickets from USA Swimming for the preview and got there 45 minutes early and it was sold out. I was warned to get there early and if I would have been 30 minutes earlier I would have got in. Its starts next Friday and I am looking forward to seeing it.
Former Member
I saw it a few months ago and it's very good. Everyone should see it :wave:
I saw it and enjoyed it, but it was very predictable. I'm sure most of you could predict the basic storyline without having any prior knowledge of Jim Ellis other than he was a pioneering black coach who started a club in a tough, inner city Philly neighborhood. I think kids will enjoy it, though.
Former Member
just saw a promo for it on TV. Boy, did it perk up my fins when it came on. Looking forward to going to see it.
I had tickets for the Philly preview but it turned out I couldn't make it that night so I gave my tix to my niece--comes to theatres here 3/23, and I'm anxious to see it, esp'y since it's about a local program.
I met Jim Ellis sometime in the mid-80s at an age-group meet, and have made it a point to stop and say hello when we traveled to the same meets ever since. He has always been good to me, as were his swimmers (even when they were kicking my tail up and down the pool), and that smile of his is infectious. It was always fun and inspiring to see how he got excited to see all the swimmers do well, even those (like me) who didn't swim for him.
I am looking forward to seeing the movie to see how much of Jim they actually captured in his character. I have a feeling that it's a fitting tribute to a great coach and a great program. Sight unseen, I'd recommend the movie to anyone... and if you live in metro Philly and are looking for a USA-S program for you or your kids to join, don't pass it over: Jim has developed a number of talented future D1 swimmers, and has a real team record book to show for it.
Now we just have to get him to start a Masters program... ;)
Chris Colburn
Coaches Committee Vice-Chair
On-Deck Coaching Coordinator
Hey Coachchris, wanna go on a date to see the movie? :D
Former Member
The recent issue of splash magazine (USA Swimming) has a cover shot and story of Jim Ellis, the coach.
It's really enjoyable to see how he not only creates a winning club...but he does so with kids who've had a relatively limited exposure to the sport in general.
Former Member
I can't wait to go see it, I am going Friday night! woohoo!
