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Jim Linhares
Legendary Coach, Passionate Teacher, Inspirational Leader
From 1983-2025, James “Jim” Linhares, Jr. made a lasting, indelible mark on St. Louis U. High. As a coach, he reinvigorated the value of teamwork and led the Jr. Bills to state titles in track & field (2006) and cross country (1999, 2007 and 2009). Among many accomplishments, he is credited with rebuilding the cross country program into a thriving and decorated powerhouse. In 2010, he was honored as a Hall of Fame Coach by the Missouri Track and Cross Country Coaches Association.
As a Theology and English teacher, he was instrumental in the formation of thousands of Jr. Bills. Linhares, a beacon of Ignatian spirituality and a gifted orator, drew students closer to God through a deep sense of curiosity and passion for the world around them.
During his tenure as Assistant Principal, he supported the important role of faculty while strengthening the Ignatian character of the school. He left a legacy of unwavering devotion to mission, passing the baton for future lay leaders to collaborate with the Society of Jesus in carrying the SLUH torch into the future.
Jim and his wife, Mary, are proud parents of SLUH alumni Andrew ’04, David ’08 and Will ’10.
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Jim Linhares Reflections
Do you have a favorite memory of Jim as a teacher, coach, colleague or mentor? How was he formative during your time at SLUH?
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Track Dedication Ceremony
Jim’s retirement aligned with the 100th anniversary of SLUH Track & Field and the 80th anniversary of Cross Country. On Monday, June 2, on the Drury Plaza at SLUH, we honored Jim, wished him well in retirement and celebrated these hallmark athletic programs.
With help from friends, family and alumni, we reached our goal in raising $550,000 to resurface and rename the track in Jim’s honor, and securing endowed funds for both Track and Cross Country.
From the Archive
