Jim Slevin

James Slevin was born on 29 November 1861 in Ireland. He played rugby football from 1879 through to 1891 for Wigan and was involved in re-forming the club in 1879 at the age of 17.

Early life and athletic accomplishments

He attended the Wigan Grammar School and had a gift for speed and running. At age 14, in a local athletics competition, he won a running race. In September 1877, Slevin won a quarter-mile handicap race in just under 61 seconds. He ran 110 yards, at age 16, in around 12.4 seconds. He was a member and captain of the Wigan Hare and Hounds Club. He was also a hurdler. He was a prolific winner, his biggest wins being in the 220-yard hurdles at Preston and Wigan in 1881 and 1882, and at Rainhill and Wigan in 1883.

Rugby career

His rugby career at Wigan spanned from 1879 to 1891, with the majority of it as captain. He was predominantly a three-quarter back and mainly played on the right wing during his career. On debut however, he played at half-back.

He made 290 appearances for the club, scoring 131 tries and winning 8 trophies.

Personal life

Jim died, aged 55, on 27 July 1917 from pneumonia.