James E. Bibbs’ distinguished career spans more than five decades. He has coached athletes on every level including high school, AAU club sports, collegiate, National, and international teams. James coached men’s track and field at Michigan State University from 1968 to 1995, where he was the first black head coach at the university and the first black head coach in the Big Ten conference. During his tenure at MSU, his athletes earned 52 Big Ten titles and he coached 26 All Americans including World Record holders Herb Washington and Marshall Dill, U.S. Olympian Judy Brown, Ohio State Head Coach and U.S. Olympic Head Women’s Coach Karen Dennis. He also founded the Detroit Track Club winning five consecutive Women’s national relay championships and was the U.S. Women’s Pan American team head coach in 1967.    Before coaching, Jim was an exceptional athlete in his own right. He was offered, but declined, a Class A contract with the New York Yankees. In 1951 he tied Jesse Owen’s world record in the 60-yard dash.    His numerous honors include All-American honors in Track at Eastern Michigan University, AAU Women’s Coach of the Year, and induction into multiple halls of fame:  The U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2015), Michigan State University Athletics Hall of Fame (2010), Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame (2005), Eastern Michigan University Athletic Hall of Fame (1979), Michigan Amateur Athlete Hall of Fame (1974), and Detroit Public Schools Hall of Fame. In 2000, he was selected as a torch bearer for the Winter Olympics. The first annual Kevin Bibbs Gentleman of Distinction Award was given to Coach Bibbs in 2003. The first annual James E. Bibbs Invitational Track Meet, sponsored by the Lightening Lynx Track Club, was held in 2006 to raise money for a Jim Bibbs scholarship.    His deep commitment to youth and passion for the sport has gained the respect and admiration of countless colleagues, athletes, parents, and friends nationwide. Under his coaching, encouragement and support, many student athletes have been empowered to excel in athletics and academics. James E. Bibbs is known throughout the community as an ambassador for Spartan Sports. He is “green” through and through, a role model and mentor to children, youth, and adults of all ages. He is a man of integrity and honesty who is never hesitant to share his love of Michigan State University, his talent, and his considerable wisdom with others.