#30MostSwimfluential: Jim Wood

Photo Courtesy: Heidi Torregroza

Who is Jim Wood?

Head coach and founder of Berkeley Aquatic Club in Berkeley Heights, NJ since 1977
Men and women’s swimming head coach at the University of North Carolina from 1975-1977
Attained an undergraduate degree from John Hopkins University before attending graduate school at UNC
Elected president of USA Swimming in 2006 and served four years in the position
Served on USA Swimming’s Board of Directors
Current president of United States Aquatic Sports (USAS)
Served 12 years (1992-2004) as Chairman of the USS Olympic International Operations Committee
Member of USA Swimming staff at 1996, 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games

How has he influenced the swimming community?

Jim Wood has proven that leadership on both a large and small scale are possible and important for the world of swimming. Through his commitment to the sport he has shown that coaching and running the business of swimming can coexist in a beneficial way. Wood founded a successful club team while simultaneously influencing the future of swimming on an international scale. His passion for the sport and his desire to see it expand and grow has inspired the entire swimming community for decades.

“I am truly honored and humbled to be part of this group. I have had the opportunity to work with almost everyone on this list and can honestly say I have taken away from these individuals more than I can ever give back. Thanks.” -Jim Wood

*USA Swimming and Speedo invited the swimming community to help celebrate their 30 years of partnership by voting for the “30 Most Influential People in Swimming Over the Past 30 Years.” Votes were cast through social media with the hashtag #30MostSwimfluential and the final vote came from a panel of 10 judges selected by USA Swimming and Speedo. All 30 nominees have had a powerful impact on the swimming community. Many are recognizable names, but some have remained unsung heroes of the sport. Swimming World will profile each swimfluential person over the course of the week.

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