Class of 2026

Jim Avery, Ithaca High School Class of 1977, is one of the most accomplished swimmers in IHS history. A four-year varsity standout from 1973–1977 under coaches Roy Staley and Caesar George, Avery earned three All-American honors, First-Team All-State recognition in 1976 and 1977, and Section IV championships in both years. He was named the team’s Most Valuable Swimmer as a senior.

Avery set or held four Ithaca High School records and two Section IV records, including a 50-yard freestyle mark that stood for 38 years. He placed second in New York State in both the 50- and 100-yard freestyle in 1977 and was part of the 8th-fastest 400 freestyle relay team in the nation that same year.

After high school, Avery swam at Indian River State College, earning 12 NJCAA All-American honors and competing on two national championship teams, before transferring to Auburn University to compete at the Division I level.

Following his collegiate career, Avery remained deeply connected to Ithaca athletics as a mentor, coach, and supporter of the IHS swimming program and other athletic teams. His legacy is defined by excellence in competition, lifelong friendships, and lasting service to the Ithaca high school athletic community.