Jim Whelan (1985) - Hall of Fame

Jim Whelan

Induction:
1985
Class:
1970

Jim Whelan earned a host of honors while starring for the Temple swimming team. Named to the All-American team in 1968, he was outstanding in the distance events. He was twice named Temple's most valuable swimmer. At the time, he was the holder of three University records, All-American honors came in the 500 and 1650 freestyle events. During the 1968 and 1969 seasons, he captured four Middle Atlantic Conference championships in distance freestyle events. He was undefeated his senior year in 1970 when he was graduated Cum Laude. He was named Temple's head swimming coach in 1974 and coached the Owls for three years. He stayed active in swimming after his graduation and was a professional marathon swimmer. He was ranked ninth in the world in 1978. While working with the Atlantic City Beach Patrol, he won numerous ocean swimming championships. He has coached the Mainland Recreation Association summer club to three straight undefeated seasons. He is a councilman in the City of Atlantic City. He has also taught in Atlantic City public schools.