Jumbo Elliott (coach) facts for kids
James F. "Jumbo" Elliott (born August 8, 1915 – died March 22, 1981) was a super famous American track and field coach. Many people think he was one of the best coaches ever! He helped five of his athletes win gold medals at the Olympic Games between 1956 and 1968.
Who Was Jumbo Elliott?
Jumbo Elliott was a talented runner himself when he was in college. He ran short and middle distance races. He finished his studies at Villanova University in 1935. Later, in 1949, he came back to Villanova to coach the track team. He coached there for a very long time, right up until he passed away in 1981.
A Coaching Legend at Villanova
During his time as a coach, Jumbo Elliott's teams at Villanova were incredibly successful. They won eight national team championships for colleges. His athletes also won an amazing 82 individual titles at the NCAA championships. Even more impressive, his athletes set 66 world records!
Jumbo Elliott helped a total of 28 athletes compete in the Olympics. Five of these athletes went on to win gold medals:
- Ron Delany won gold in 1956 for the 1500 meter race.
- Charles Jenkins won gold in 1956 for the 400 meter race.
- Don Bragg won gold in 1960 for the pole vault.
- Paul Drayton won gold in 1964 as part of the 4 × 100 meter relay team.
- Larry James won gold in 1968 as part of the 4 × 400 meter relay team.
In 1981, Jumbo Elliott was honored by being added to the National Track and Field Hall of Fame. He passed away that same year and is buried in West Conshohocken, PA.
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